Tenacious, enthusiastic, equestrian – meet Charlie Johnson, vice president UK and Ireland at Digital Element.
1 – Summarise yourself in three words.
“Tenacious, enthusiastic, equestrian.”
2 – What made you want to pursue a career in media and marketing?
“I never planned to go into a career in the industry. But a job offer out of university got the ball rolling and I haven’t looked back since.”
3 – Describe your ideal client.
“A person I can collaborate with to create the best solution for them and who is brave enough to take a leap into the unknown to achieve success for their company.”
4 – Name your favourite ever campaign.
“I loved Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s #LookingForYou campaign, which was innovative and fun but was also able to effectively strike a chord with dog lovers.”
5 – Which award win are you most proud of, and why?
“I’m still waiting for the media and marketing awards to come flooding in, but in the meantime it was amazing to win at Rockbourne Showjumping which is another passion of mine.”
6 – Who is the best industry speaker you have seen?
“There are lots of good industry speakers but I have to confess I really enjoyed listening to Mimi Valdés – chief creative officer at IamOTHER – speak at Cannes Lions this year.”
7 – Which is your favourite social media platform, and why?
“Twitter is a great way to keep up-to-date with what is going on in the world around me, even when I’m short on time. It could be keeping on top of what is important to our clients or checking in with friends and family. That said, I would still much rather pick up the phone.”
“I can’t believe marketers are still using pop up ads. They are so old, intrusive, and – frankly – annoying”
8 – Where is your ideal meeting venue?
“Wallace Collection on Manchester Square is stunning. The great setting and privacy makes it the perfect meeting location.”
9 – What is your favourite restaurant?
“Bocca di Lupo near Piccadilly Circus. It serves a fantastic range of Italian foods from all across the country and there is always something new to try. And the wine list is great!”
10 – What is hot in international media and marketing, and what is not?
“What is hot? We’re always talking about cross device, and how to effectively deliver content to everyone when there are so many variables to consider.
“What is not? I can’t believe marketers are still using pop up ads. They are so old, intrusive, and – frankly – annoying.”
11 – Which industry buzzword would you ban?
“Earned media.”
12 – Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
“Riding a horse, of course!”
13 – Finally, who would play you in a movie of your life?
“Zooey Deschanel.”
