Well, where do you start?

I feel that ‘Account Executive’ is a title that fulfils various responsibilities within the role. When I joined as an ‘AE’ (Account Executive) I was unsure of what this role would entail. A Client Services Director once told me, and I quote, ‘that an AE is the foundation of the team. We are the cement, bricks, interior that creates a house that the Account Managers, Account Directors and Client services director need to keep the house going’. Basically, i’m one… so you know we’re important.

The Journey: 

It’s been almost a year since I started at bbd as an Account Executive and I cannot believe how much I have learnt along the way. It’s not the work that makes your job ‘fun/special’, but the people you work with in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong – that feeling when a project gets signed off after all the hard work and dedication you put in it, is great! But, I wouldn’t be at my level of knowledge or growth without the people I have met on my journey. 

bbd is an outstanding company. The diversity of culture, clients and work that you come across is unique. I have always been that person who will never get ‘too’ friendly with ‘colleagues’. That’s hard to do here at bbd, you naturally become one big (do I dare say it) family. There is not one person you won’t know in the office because you all work together. I truly believe that – that’s why I am where I am today. 

After over a year, I can say I am now an account manager which for me, is a huge achievement. This goes to show progression is key for Bright Blue Day and your hard work does not go unnoticed. On the days that feel tougher than usual, don’t give up. Tough people are put through those tough times and there are a lot of tough moments being in this industry but boy is it worth it!

I feel so grateful to be able to say I love my job and the line of work I do. There are a few tips I would like to share if you are ever thinking about coming into agency/advertising, marketing or client services:

Top Tips

  1. Always listen, do not miss a thing – you learn so much quicker. 
  2. Don’t rush, take your time. Take in your surroundings and give yourself time to process. 
  3. ALWAYS ask questions, no matter how many you may ask. 
  4. Take every opportunity. New client? Take it! Build up your experience. 
  5. Believe in yourself – you can do it and you can grow. 
  6. Work together. 

The list could go on. I am excited to see where I will be this time next year.

Cleo Symes
Account Manager