Abbey-Rose Ludski.
In this series, AdNews spotlights young talent in the Australian media, marketing and advertising sector. This time it's OA Collective's senior account manager Abbey-Rose Ludski.
Time in current role/time at the company:
I’ve been in my current role at OA Collective for 10 months.
How long have you been in the industry?
I’ve been in media for 5 years now.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
Unlike most, I didn’t stumble into media - I knew pretty early on this was what I wanted to do. I did my Year 10 work experience at QMS with my cousin and left thinking, “this is it.”
After finishing my HSC, I went to uni because it felt like the natural next step… but I was itching to get started. I reached out to QMS asking for anything – receptionist, intern, whatever would get my foot in the door (very eager 19-year-old energy). A few months later, I landed an internship that was meant to be short-term… and I never left, working across Sales, Trading and Data & Insights while also studying a Bachelor of Commerce full-time.
As soon as a Coordinator role opened up, I jumped at it - and that’s where my career really kicked off. Since then, it’s been a fast-paced journey and one I’ve loved every minute of.
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
I’ve been really lucky to have strong leaders throughout my career who have each shaped the way I approach my work and how I show up professionally. In particular, Lavinia O’Connell, who I worked with previously and who brought me across to OA Collective. She has played a huge role in how I operate today. I’ve always admired the way she builds relationships and shows up for her clients - she just gets it.
More recently, my current GSM Jenna Coulston has continued to build on that, really challenging my way of thinking and pushing me outside my comfort zone. She’s built an incredible career in media, and I’ve learnt a lot from how she approaches both the role and her clients.
Having worked under strong female leaders like this has not only shaped how I work, but also the kind of leader I aspire to be.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
It’s 100% the people.
The reason I love this industry so much is because my job is built around relationships - whether that’s clients, agencies or other reps. No two days are ever the same, and I genuinely enjoy the human side of it all.
Also, being paid to talk to people all day?
Honestly, made for me.
And the biggest challenge?
The pace. Media moves fast, and things are constantly changing - whether that’s platforms, products, or client expectations.
But I actually see that as a positive. It forces me to stay curious, keep learning, and constantly evolve the way I think and collaborate with agencies.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
Elizabeth McIntyre – CEO of the Outdoor Media Association
As someone who genuinely loves this industry – and especially Out of Home – that’s the level I aspire to. Elizabeth’s role in leading the industry at a national level, driving growth, innovation and advocacy for Out of Home is something I really admire. Being able to have that kind of impact and help shape the future of the industry I’ve grown up in would be pretty incredible.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
As cliché as it sounds, my family.
Anyone who’s worked with me knows I call my mum at least five times a day - she’s my go-to for everything. Whether it’s a big decision, a win, or just a sanity check, she’s always my first call.
My dad has also played a huge role in shaping my work ethic - he’s always led by example, showing me that consistency and hard work genuinely pay off over time.
And my partner (who’s also in media) means I get to share all the highs and chaos of the industry with someone who truly gets it - which I don’t take for granted.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I’m a pretty open book, so this is a tough one… but something not many people know is that I was born during the 2000 Olympics.
My mum went into labour while the marathon was on, and my dad had to get part of the route cleared so he could drive her to the hospital.
My parents always say it was the perfect way for me to enter the world - and the beginning of the chaos that’s followed ever since.
In five years' time I'll be:
Professionally:
Leading a team. I’ve always loved mentoring and helping people grow, so building a high-performing team and shaping the next generation in media is something I’m really passionate about.
Personally:
Living in my forever home in the Shire, spending weekends as a very dedicated (and slightly over-the-top) aunty to my nieces and nephews.
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