A coffee with Katie

We caught up with our Account Director, Katie.

 

As well as all the hard work she does for A.D. and the team, she is also a mum of three and loves an active vibe cycle in her spare time (when she gets it!). 

Our M.D. Amo says that Katie is one of a kind (In a good way of course!). Having worked with her between 2005 and 2009 I knew how hard working Katie is. So for A.D. It was only a matter of time before we were going to pick up the phone to invite her to come and join us. The 5th of January will mark six very successful and incredible years with us. Katie’s hard work, commitment and passion shines through in everything she does and I am proud to call her a colleague.’ 

 

Here’s what else we discussed… 

First up, what’s the one thing you could not live without?

My Children!

 

If you could choose one superpower, what would it be and why?

Well! My three children are in three different schools and on weekends they also go to clubs. This means that every day, apart from Sunday, I have to be in two or three places at the same time. So something that would make this easier would be great, BUT…this is where my organisation and multi tasking skills come into practice. 

 

Sounds like you’re a busy bee! So, if you had an extra week’s holiday each year, what would you do?

Have a week…just for me! 

 

We can understand why! Time for a few quickfire questions now. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

No one owes you anything. 

 

What was the last thing you bought?

Football boots for my son.

Tea or coffee? Or both?

Tea

 

Are you a crammer or a planner?

Crammer.

 

What inspires you?

Reading and listening to people and their life battles, hardships they have overcome. 

 

We love that answer, which leads us on to our next question…Who is your biggest inspiration?

My Nannie Annie  – I could cry thinking of what she had to overcome and the life she had, how she just got on with it. It would be a best selling book or blockbuster film. Angela’s ashes and much more. 

 

She sounds amazing, we can tell you’re definitely a family person! So, what motivates you? 

You’re correct, I would definitely have to say my family is my motivation! To provide for them, and show my children a strong work ethic. I also strive to always do the best for my clients, nothing pleases me more than hearing how successful a client campaign or event has been and how well the merchandise was received. 

 

Let’s talk a little bit about your life at A.D. Do you have a business bestie?

Yes! Steph 

How do you support and inspire our customers?

I will always listen to my clients and ask the right questions. By understanding all aspects of a brief, the why’s, where’s and how’s will always help to build up a picture of exactly what the client wants to achieve and how we can be a part of that and deliver on each objection. 

 

How would you define Creative Connections?

Finding a complete solution, each client is different and will have different objections and goals. It’s important to be changeable. Not one size ever fits all and we must always work with a client to understand exactly what they need to achieve and find the solution. 

Working with suppliers is equally important, we are all part of the same chain. We work with our suppliers and use their creativity and showcase their new ideas and innovation. 

 

What is the best thing about being a Planet Positive Person?

Knowing that you are doing what you can to protect the environment. 

 

How do you deliver the most value to your clients?

By listening to them and going beyond meeting their expectations & objections. 

 

How do you support and inspire customers?

I try to listen and then offer products which will meet their requirements, more than one option and from a range of eco/sustainable options.  Thinking of them when new products come out and sending them ideas.

 

What does your desk look like?

Minimal, organised and always a half drunk cold cup of tea on the desk. 

 

What makes a great team for you?

A team who is always there for you, understanding, offers great ideas, is inspirational, motivational, challenging, and reliable.

 

Do you have any business/life rituals that are non-negotiable?

Always have pride in what you do and how you present yourself. 

 

What’s your favourite part of the Super Seven process and why?

Discover – It’s important to understand all angles and objections from the outset. We can waste so much time on both sides if we do not fully understand the nuts and bolts of what the client needs to achieve. 

 

What is your passion outside of work?

I love a good vibe cycle and body pump class. Cooking for my family is something that gives me so much pleasure. I am definitely an experimenter which means sometimes the outcome is wonderful and sometimes not so much. Most of all, I love spending time with my wider and smaller family and just being together. I love taking my little family on trips and holidays and building memories that will hopefully last forever.

If you weren’t doing (your career) as a job, what would you be doing?

Advertising.

 

Interesting! What’s your favourite time of day?

9am.

 

Countryside or city?

Both, being a Gemini there could never be one answer to this question for me. 

 

How do you start most mornings?

Straight in the shower before I crowbar my kids out of bed!

 

Where is your favourite place to be?

I love being at home.

 

Do you have a hidden talent that nobody knows about?

I can do at least 5 things at the same time. 

 

Where do you hang out online, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or Linkedin?

Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin. 

How many apps do you have on your phone?

More than my phone can handle. 

 

How many languages can you speak?

Only the 1! 

 

What’s the best book you’ve read recently?

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine – Gail Honeyman. 

When do you feel most fulfilled?

On a Friday at 6.00pm, in my kitchen, cooking a curry with a glass of red in my hand and knowing I did my best. 

That was our last question! Was great chatting with you Katie. Everyone at A.D. can assure you that you do always do your best and to the highest standard too, in true A.D. spirit. 

If you would like to get in touch with us, feel free to drop Katie a message.

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