In this series, AdNews spotlights young talent in the Australian media, marketing and advertising sector. This time it's JOLT's global marketing and communications specialist, Emily Mallos.
Time at the company:
Just over two years now.
How long have you been in the industry?
Almost five years in the marketing world, but my time at JOLT marks my first experience in both the out-of-home (OOH) and EV charging industries. It’s been an exciting mix of advertising, technology, and sustainability that’s completely reshaped how I think about marketing’s role in the real world.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
After finishing high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I had options, but I was pretty impressionable at that age, so I went with a business degree because it was broad enough to keep doors open. I knew I was creative and curious about people and how they think, which made marketing a natural fit.
My first marketing role was in-house for a company that owned a portfolio of healthcare recruitment brands, supporting essential frontline staff like nurses, aged care, and disability care workers. It gave me a strong foundation in brand building and purpose-led marketing, and reinforced how much I enjoy working for organisations that make a positive impact.
The position at JOLT immediately grabbed my attention when it was advertised. Not just because of the purpose, but also the business model itself. The idea of combining EV charging infrastructure with digital advertising felt smart, future-focused, and full of potential.
I’ve always been a fan of OOH advertising. The type of person who notices the ads on the street or in train stations and appreciates the creativity, the humour, and the ability to make people stop and think. So, the chance to work in the OOH industry, especially in a role that sat at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and creativity, felt really exciting.
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
I’m incredibly lucky to have amazing people around me at JOLT.
- My manager, Soph (Global Marketing and Communications Director), for guidance, candid conversations, and always pushing me to think bigger. She’s brilliant and I just try to keep up with her!
- My colleague and friend, Randall (Senior Global Data & Strategy Manager), who’s my go-to for quick brainstorms, grounding chats, and finding the fun in the chaos.
- My mentor, Meg (Chief of Staff), she’s insightful, real, and supportive both professionally and personally.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
I love when brands use out-of-home in unexpected, bold ways, those campaigns that make you literally stop on the street and think, “Oh, that’s really clever”. There’s something so tangible and creative about that kind of storytelling. This stunt from Specsavers, in the UK, is a great example of that.
On the EV charging side, it’s an industry that sparks a lot of conversation. People are either really passionate about it or still figuring it out. I love being part of shaping that narrative, helping show how accessible, sustainable tech can genuinely improve cities and everyday life.
And the biggest challenge?
Being part of a scale-up means we’re still small but taking on big opportunities. With limited resources and a growing list of stakeholders, it’s a constant balancing act. Some outcomes are out of our control, like infrastructure approvals or timelines, so learning to prioritise, stay adaptable, and still deliver quality work is a challenge but also a huge growth driver.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In a role that sparks creativity, brings joy, and challenges me in the right way. Something I’m genuinely excited to get up for (no Sunday scaries!). Ideally, it’s work that blends branding, storytelling, and purpose, while making a real difference for people or communities. I see myself doing something that allows creativity to have impact, whether that’s within a purpose-led brand or something wildly different of my own creation.
Whatever it looks like, I hope it’s flexible, not bound to the traditional 9-to-5, and shaped around balance, curiosity, and meaning. These are the things that keep me motivated and inspired to do great work.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Definitely my friends. We’re constantly throwing around business ideas that’ll retire us by 35.
I also get inspired by new environments. Travel always helps reset and spark new thinking. Changing scenery gives me perspective and fresh ideas.
And honestly, Pinterest, too.
My favourite advert is:
I can think of a few memorable campaigns over the years that still get mentioned today. Including the “should have gone to Specsavers” stunt-style campaigns and the famous “Por que no los dos” taco commercial from Old El Paso.
Apple's “shot on iPhone” user-generated campaign was epic, too.
OpenAI’s recent series of ads, humanising the application of ChatGPT, was great.
Even the RTA’s ‘Speeding. No one thinks big of you’ campaign back in the day was hilarious while also being well executed and targeted.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I used to play the piano accordion from around the age of eight until I was 11.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
No one’s in particular right now. I’m still carving my own path and figuring out what my version of success looks like. Although a creative director role sounds pretty cool.
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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