Facebook and the Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA) are launching the IMAA and Facebook University, a program to train staff of independent agencies with highly sought after skills in digital marketing and leadership for rising stars.
The Facebook and IMAA University will provide the staff of independent agencies the opportunity to gain valuable technical skills in Facebook’s tools to accelerate their clients’ outcomes, plus the soft skills necessary to manage teams and take the next step in their careers. The program is part of a broader partnership between Facebook and IMAA to help agencies grow their people and their clients.
As part of the IMAA and Facebook University, participants will receive:
• Facebook Blueprint Training: An online skills and training program, teaching participants a broad range of digital marketing skills including media buying, planning, strategy, creative and more
• Facebook Blueprint Certification: Participants of the program will have the option to complete an exam to attain credentials that recognises advanced-level proficiency in various aspects of digital marketing with Facebook products.
• Leadership training: Access to the internationally recognised Own the Room training, equipping participants with the soft skills to lead teams, drive progress and increase efficiency
• Access to the Facebook Business Partners Hub: A dedicated online resource for agencies to deliver increased value for their clients
To be eligible for the Facebook and IMAA University participants must currently be employed by an Australian independent agency and part of the IMAA. To register for the program visit the IMAA website.
Sam Buchanan, general manager, IMAA said: “We are really excited to be involved with Facebook and the launch of the IMAA University. Australia’s rolling lockdowns in various states and working from home models have created many challenges and skills gaps in our industry as people are unable to meet and learn in office environments. This means that education has never been more important for the independent agency sector. The IMAA’s key focus is ensuring our member agencies have access to key education initiatives for their people and keeping them ahead of the curve, which is what this partnership will achieve.”
Harry Lowes, head of independent agencies, Facebook ANZ said: “I’m truly proud of our partnership with the Independent Media Agencies of Australia and to bring the IMAA and Facebook University to life. Over 18 months with the IMAA, we’ve enjoyed building an even stronger two-way relationship with Australia’s independent agency industry, and learning what Facebook can do to support an ever changing market. Through this education program, we hope to respond directly to the industry’s feedback and empower them with the Facebook knowledge and skills to support their business, their teams and their clients.”
Mediaweek has been profiling members of the IMAA – previous features can be found here.