Talk us through an average day in your role.
I begin my morning with focused strategic thinking and research to anticipate industry shifts and to help chart our company’s long-term course without losing agility. Mornings are the time when our teams gather and plan out the day, so as needed I join those discussions. The remainder of the day is a mix of investor and board engagements (when necessary), partner and customer interactions and discussions with other senior members of our leadership team. One of my main duties is to lead the celebration of wins and to evangelise the company and our products externally.
How did you get started in the media industry?
I got started in the media industry over 25 years ago. My first big break was with NBCUniversal, where I was part of a team that focused on building, supporting and maintaining technologies for media workflows. Back then, I was a technology enthusiast, and I had the chance to work with some very experienced people in the field. That initial experience really opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities in the media space. I had a passion for solving complex problems and more so, helping people. It was a perfect match between my technical skills, the media industry’s demands and desire to help people and solve problems. From there, I worked my way through roles that shaped my career trajectory.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
My training was a mix of some formal education and a lot of hands-on experience. I have a background in technology, media workflows and customer service, which gave me the technical foundation I needed. But it was also the real-world experience that shaped my expertise. I didn’t just study in a classroom; my early roles immersed me in the industry and that gave me a deep understanding of the infrastructure, workflows and real-world challenges that broadcast and media people face. I spent time on-site, learning about the systems from the ground up, and that’s where I gained a true appreciation for the intricacies of the industry.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
What excites me most is the constant evolution. Media is always pushing the envelope in terms of technology, whether it’s new ways to stream content, enhance production workflows, or create a seamless experience for viewers. The rapid pace keeps me on my toes. I also love how dynamic and creative the industry is. It’s not just about the tech, but also about solving problems creatively to deliver the best content to the audience. I love seeing how our solutions are able to enhance workflows and operations allowing our customers to focus on what they do best. I find this incredibly rewarding.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
The biggest piece of advice I can give is to never stop learning. The media and broadcast industry moves quickly, and it’s important to stay ahead of the curve. Don’t just follow trends, be proactive in understanding the technology, how it may solve workflow problems, thus shaping the future. Also, embrace a mindset of collaboration and curiosity. Media is a team effort and being open to learning
from others is key. I’d also caution newcomers to avoid getting caught up in the pressure of perfection. Mistakes are inevitable, and failure is part of the growth process. But as long as you stay adaptable, persistent, and committed to continuous learning, you’ll find success in this industry.
