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.
Jess Healy: group sales manager at Paramount Brisbane
Time in current role/time at the company:
I’ve been with Paramount, Brisbane, for about five years, including three years as a group sales manager.
How long have you been in the industry?
Eight years.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
The plan was to follow in the footsteps of Roxy Jacenko. Studying marketing & PR in university, she was always someone I had my eyes on. That fast-paced, results-driven world intrigued me. Just before graduating, I was interviewing for a lot of junior PR roles, but it didn’t feel right. Along came one of my first mentors in the industry - Michael Hatcher. Seven Affiliate Sales were looking for a sales assistant. I loved the sound of the job and the proximity to Witchery, which was a frequent lunch time venture for the team. Lock me in!
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
Two leading ladies that have my back and have been with me since the beginning in my Paramount journey – Kat Droulers and Karen Hirst. Both women inspire me for very different reasons. Kat is someone that has guided me from go to wo, I wouldn’t be where I am in my current role without her by my side. Karen is a constant cheerleader for everything that I do and accomplish - both professionally and personally. I wouldn’t be where I am in my career without the influence of these two women.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
I described this out loud to my partner just recently when he asked why I love my job. It’s the feeling you get when you hear a challenge, workshop a solution, and then see the outcome of your work. It’s a very rewarding industry to watch clients and colleagues grow.
Then, of course, the people. Fostering and building relationships over the years has been so rewarding. There are some people who have known me from my first day as a sales assistant and are now working with me as a group sales manager.
And the biggest challenge?
We are always told that you can’t win ‘em all, but there are times when the no’s really do suck. It’s been a challenge to frame my mindset over the years into what represents a good win, and what’s not worth winning for the business.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I’m inspired by every member of the senior leadership team here at Paramount – I’d be lucky to venture into that sphere at some stage in my career!
For a real rogue and ‘in another life’ answer, I obsess daily over the Instagram influencer Sophie Pearce (@recipearce founder), an all-around wholesome influencer. I’m consumed with her renovation content, her little girls and how she has created this beautiful and simple life for herself living in one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, Cabarita!
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Always an outsiders perspective, someone who doesn’t understand my role and the industry, but understands what success looks like in their own way. My Mum (a school principal), Dad (business development) and partner Mark (engineering geologist) are the go-to trio, for all different reasons.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I have an irrational fear for coins and I have a phobia of colourful foods.
In five years' time, I'll be...
Hopefully continuing a trajectory of growth. I am passionate about growing and developing as a leader in my current role and absolutely don’t want to stop where I am. I’d also hope to be married, with a bub, hopefully have convinced my partner to get a dog and living by the beach. The dream!
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