Young Gun profiles takes a look at the young talent across the Australian advertising, adtech, marketing and media sector. Aiming to shed light on the varying roles, people and companies across the buzzing industry.
Grace Nieuwhof, senior client executive, dentsu QLD
Time in current role/time at the company:
One year.
How long have you been in the industry?
Three years.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
I studied a Bachelor of Media with the University of Tasmania. I always saw myself being a journalist, I love to chat! However, my minor in marketing sparked a fire that I knew I needed to explore further, so I went on to complete my Masters of Marketing with RMIT. For the past three years I have worked agency side in digital roles. I believe very much in the right place at the right time, so I guess that is the plan!
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
Being based in Brisbane means I am a part of the dentsu Queensland family. Our leadership team at dentsu is the best in the business, they care about their people. I work closely with Ryan Roberts and Sam Carlin; they both push me to be the best version of myself. I am also incredibly lucky to be guided by my mentors Marcelle Gomez and Joshua Iselin. I can turn to them for support and guidance, always.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
The people, without a doubt. Coming from Tasmania, I love working in a smaller market where everyone knows everyone. I constantly feel inspired by the talent that walks through our agency.
And the biggest challenge?
Our industry is always evolving. It keeps me on my toes and consistently pushes me to remain inquisitive. This allows me to achieve the best results for my clients.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I would love to one day end up in a key leadership role where I can support people. After working in a range of fields of the media landscape, I think Emily Cook’s role as general manager of dentsu Queensland, would be incredible. Em knows every person in this business. She understands how they work and what they need to succeed. She makes you feel seen and valued as a person.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
My parents. I have grown up watching them run a small business together. They have shown me how you can be successful, but not at the detriment of your personal values. You should always love what you do.
My favourite advert is (and why):
Would I be Tasmanian if I didn’t talk about Tassie!? I loved Discover Tasmania’s campaign, Come Down For Air. I think it captures exactly how it feels to jump off the plane in Tasmania, a sense of calm. The comedic element makes it memorable. It’s genius. https://youtu.be/G1Pl8Mq3flQ
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I can’t believe I’m admitting this, but at the age of 12 I competed on Junior MasterChef Australia. My mum and gran taught me to cook when I was little, I’ve loved it ever since. The show was an amazing opportunity for me to develop as an individual, but PLEASE don’t Google me.
In five years’, time I'll be:
In five years, I will be 29 and I genuinely have no idea where I will be. Wherever I am, hopefully I will be happy and healthy, trusting my gut to guide me to my next project!
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