Editor’s note: “Media Spotlight” is an ongoing series where we interview the professionals that make up our growing office. You will gain insight into the experts who make up Media Works team. This week, we interviewed Sam Noel. #MWSpotlight
How long have you worked in media/advertising?
I have been working in media for a little over eight years. In June 2013, a few weeks after college graduation, I moved up to New York City to start my media career in a training program at Zenith Media. This opportunity led to a full-time position at the agency where I worked on a Tier 2 Toyota account as an Assistant Planner. About a year later, I transitioned to OMD as a Planner to work on the Tier 2 Infiniti account. In late 2016, I decided to move back to Baltimore and continued my media career at Media Works. That was not my first start at Media Works, however, as I was a summer intern in 2011!
Who has been the biggest influence on you in the Media field?
The mentors from the training program I participated in at Zenith Media were a major influence. They helped me transition from college to the workforce with ease, while also giving me a great understanding of all aspects of media. The three months I spent training were extremely valuable and helped me advance to where I am today in the Media field.
If you could pick one campaign you’ve worked on that you are most proud of, what would it be, and why?
Incorporating Infiniti into local markets using sponsorships was a thrill during my time at OMD. They were already the sponsor of the Boston Red Sox when I joined the team. With the tri-state area being a key market at the time, our team negotiated a great partnership with the New Jersey Devils, leading to tons of on-air and in-arena signage. This was certainly exciting to work on as I have a passion for sports. To see your brand’s logo all over a major arena in the #1 U.S. market after a lot of hard work was a highlight of my career.
How has the Media industry changed since you have been in the business?
The boom of streaming and being able to watch or listen to anything, anywhere, at any time. I remember the days of living in New York and having to find a Reddit stream to watch Ravens games through.
Name one Medium you use every day that you couldn’t live without.
The thing that allows you to call/text a friend or family member, respond to a work email, check a score, make a stock trade, play games, etc….my phone! It’s sad how much devices have become part of my everyday life, but I am not the only one!
What advice would you offer to someone looking to get into the advertising industry?
Always be ready for change. Whether it’s a new medium, optimizing a campaign, learning a new platform etc., there is always going to be something evolving in this industry. You just have to adapt and learn on the fly!