Our Young Guns profile takes a weekly look at some of the young talent across the advertising, ad tech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles, people and companies across the buzzing industry.
Previously we spoke to Clemenger Sydney art director Shaun Thomson. Today, we meet technical client manager at AppNexus Sydney, Erika Milton.
How long have you been in the industry?
1.5 years.
Duration in current role/time at the company:
I’ve been in this role and with the company for 1.5 years.
What were you doing before this job and how did you get this gig?
My previous role as a marketing analyst led me to an amazing mentor. She equipped me with the requisite skills to succeed and shortly after I was head-hunted for a role at AppNexus through LinkedIn.
Define your job in one word:
Stimulating.
What were your real and cliché expectations of working in the industry?
When you think of working for a tech company, the things that spring to mind are casual attire every day, people coding, free food, and sleeping pods. I expected my job to be challenging, complex, and mentally stimulating. I also expected to meet a lot of intelligent, down to earth people.
How does the reality match up?
It’s all of this and more. I work with the most brilliant minds every day, but what really sets them apart is their willingness to help and share everything they know.
How would you describe what the company does and what does your role involve?
AppNexus is an internet technology company that powers the real-time sale and purchase of digital advertising. My role involves developing a deep understanding of what our clients are looking to achieve, and then empowering them to achieve success.
Best thing about the industry you work in:
Although the pace is relentless, being able to collaborate with and learn from so many talented individuals makes it incredibly rewarding.
Any major hard learnings in the job so far?
Simply put, to succeed in this role you must be curious, willing to get into the weeds, and have a passion for technology.
If you had to switch over to another department, which would it be and why?
I would probably move into a commercial role as I would love to help influence conversations at the most senior level.
What's exciting you about the industry right now?
I believe that the future of trading is incredibly bright. When executed properly, machine learning has the ability to significantly free up traders’ time, allowing them to focus on more strategic opportunities.
What concerns you about the industry and its future?
The lack of diversity in ad tech, particularly in terms of gender equality. I’ve seen first-hand just how rewarding a career in ad tech can be, but we need to all push for greater diversity and work towards getting the right structures in place to support this.
Who's your right hand person/who guides you day to day?
Niki Banerjee (AppNexus’ lead technical client manager). He’s a great sounding board and is always willing to lean in.
And your almighty mentor that you hope to dethrone?
Dave Osborn (senior vice president, global accounts for AppNexus). Dave is a true unicorn – someone who can hold conversations at both a deep technical and commercial level. When he moved back to Seattle, I basically took his whole house and furnished it into mine.
Career-wise, where do you see yourself in 2020 and how do you plan on getting there?
I see myself as a leader, hopefully inspiring women in the industry to do great things.
What is the elephant in the room?
The thing that no one is talking about – but they should be. We need to continue to hire people with diverse backgrounds, provide them with opportunities to thrive and reward their successes.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
The book, ‘What I Know For Sure’ by Oprah Winfrey. Or my journal.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
When I’m stressed, I think in Cantonese.
Favourite advert is:
The VW Star Wars ad. The kid is just super cute.
What’s your personal motto?
Stay humble.
I got into advertising/ad tech/marketing etc because:
It fell into my lap, and I’ve never looked back.
If I wasn't doing this for a living, I'd be:
A personal shopper. I LOVE shopping!
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
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