What's your job title?
Chief marketing officer
Brands controlled?
Heinz UK, Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce, Weight Watchers, Aunt Bessie's, the Amoy range and Daddies.
Media agencies used?
Vizeum.
UK media spend?
We use a combination of TV, press, online and outdoor, depending on the product category and target audience.
What are the big media issues?
Fragmentation, value and effectiveness.
What are the main criteria you use when selecting an agency?
Good strategic thinking, consumer understanding, an open mind and great people who work with us and our creative agencies as one team.
Do you use a media auditor?
Yes. Billetts.
How did your career background prepare you for this role?
I completed a commerce degree with a marketing major, which equipped me with the basic knowledge to operate as a marketing professional.
What role does procurement play?
Our procurement function has a complementary supporting role, as part of the team.
What's the main difference between working in an agency and being a client?
As a client, communication is only one of the things you are focused on since you are involved in a wide range of other activities. In an agency, you have a narrower but deeper focus.
Medium you can't live without?
Television, because with high penetration categories such as our core Heinz portfolio, TV is still the most cost-effective and impactful medium. Our campaign for Heinz Deli Mayo is the latest example and we have also had great results with Farmers' Market soups, Heinz Tomato Ketchup and Eazy Beanzy.
Best thing about working in media?
It's great when people want to share their views on your advertising and products. Working on everyday food means that everyone you meet has a view on our strategy.
