Brands controlled?
Virgin Media TV, Virgin 1, Living, Living 2, Bravo, Bravo 2, Challenge and Challenge Jackpot.
What are your main priorities over the next 12 months?
To build on the success of the channels in terms of audience size and profile. The first stage is a rebranding of Virgin 1, starting today.
Agencies used?
OMD for media planning, Goodstuff for communications planning and Karmarama for off-air creative, plus different PR and digital agencies depending on the task.
What are the main criteria you use when selecting an agency?
Big thinking and plain speaking are a must, as is cultural fit. If the account team doesn't feel like an extension of the in-house team, it won't work.
Any advice to agencies operating in an economic downturn?
Absolutely understand your clients' objectives. Look for ways to add value beyond your contractual obligations and don't be afraid to get down and dirty with some low cost/no cost campaigns. Try to find ways to measure everything.
What has been your most enjoyable campaign to date?
Being part of the whole Honda "Power of Dreams" strategy. There is no one specific campaign I would pick, but the role they all played in taking Honda from being a rationally perceived automotive manufacturer selling 70,000 cars to arguably one of the coolest car brands in town selling in excess of 100,000 cars was an amazing journey to be part of.
How has your career background prepared you for your current role?
Working for companies such as Honda and Callaway who were prepared to take creative risks has helped me fit in to the Virgin Media TV team. I have also done a serious amount of TV watching over the years.
Which medium can't you live without?
Media convergence has meant I can't live without any of them.
The figures above relate to Virgin Media. Separate figures for Virgin Media Television are not broken out.
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