Our Young Gun profile takes a look at some of the young talent across the advertising, adtech, marketing and media sector in Australia. It aims to shed light on the varying roles, people and companies across the buzzing industry.
Ashleigh McKimm: Events and marketing specialist at Quantcast
Time at the company:
One year
How long have you been in the industry?
2.5 years
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
After completing my course of business management at UTS I was unsure of which industry I wanted to work in, so I started out in the MICE industry, where I planned corporate incentive trips, and bespoke experiences and conferences. I then worked at a media agency for just over a year, before spending a short time working in the banking industry. It was during this time I realised how much I missed both the media and event management world, so it was fate when the perfect role at Quantcast came up as it combined both of my passions into one!
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
Professionally: my manager, Germaine Hendrik, who has a wealth of experience in the marketing and ad tech landscape, and is a wonderful leader and mentor. I’ve worked with Germaine for just over a year and have already learnt so much from her!
Personally: My partner, Nick. Although our personalities could not be more different, he helps me remain calm and see the positive side of almost any situation… which could not be more important for me in a events role, where things can often shift.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
I love the fast-paced and innovative nature of this industry, and of course, the people! I have been fortunate enough to have met so many amazing people who are smart, fun, and inspire me every day. The events and travel opportunities I’ve been able to experience are admittedly a great perk as well.
And the biggest challenge?
A prominent part of my role at Quantcast is events management, so naturally COVID has been a major challenge for me over the last year. Although it has been a challenge, I have certainly learnt to be adaptable and take things as they come.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself still working at Quantcast or elsewhere in the adtech industry, ideally in a leadership role, mentoring new talent. I would also love to have had some experience working in the industry overseas (London or similar.)
Where do you turn for inspiration?
I am inspired by women especially, who have done the hard yards and are at a place in their career where they’re both comfortable and successful. I also have expensive taste.
My favourite advert is:
‘Fly Away’ - Qantas ad. I cry every time I watch this ad and I don’t even have any family living overseas, nor in another state. The whole premise of this ad is heart-breaking and exciting all at the same time. It’s such a thought provoking yet simple premise.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag7aiRooysM
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I lived in the English countryside for a year when I was 18 and worked in a boarding school that could’ve been mistaken for Hogwarts.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future:
That is yet to be determined, but I do have a few ideas up my sleeve. (Maybe Elon Musk)
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