Mediaweek held its inaugural Power Lunch in October, celebrating the successes of the media industry and the people who make it.
In at #22 on the Agency 50 list is Margie Reid, CEO of Melbourne-based independent advertising agency, Thinkerbell.
Reid spoke to Mediaweek about how the recognition highlights a shift in what ‘power’ means in the industry, ensuring the existence of diversity and inclusion in the business and her humble confidence in Thinkerbell’s year ahead.
Mediaweek: Congratulations on making the #22 spot on our Mediaweek Agency 50 list. What was your reaction to your placement?
MR: It’s great recognition for everything we’ve achieved at Thinkerbell. My initial reaction was one of ‘thanks’.
MW: How does your position on the list reflect the achievements made by Thinkerbell?
MR: It’s recognition that ‘power’ in media is shifting from who has the most billing’s, to something more meaningful. It’s recognition that concepts like creativity and transparency are beginning to be valued in media.
MW: What are three industry issues on your mind, and in your opinion, how can they be solved or achieved?
1. Diversity and inclusion exists in it’s purest form and is felt across the business, our clients and the product we produce. From behind to infront on the camera to the allocation of media spend. How are we ensuring we are catering for and speaking to all Australians. This is from age, to capability to racial background.
2. Creating an environment where creativity is valued commercially for the role it plays in business results.
3. The continual challenge of effectiveness, and the emerging challenge of efficiency. How do we do work that’s effective for our clients, and how do we develop processes and ways of working that maximise efficiency, without compromising creativity.
MW: What is your outlook for Thinkerbell in the year ahead?
MR: It will be a strong year for Thinkerbell. We have wonderful clients, and a brilliant team. We also have a few tailwinds like being independent and a very strong brand. So all up, we’re confident. Of course now that I’ve said that something is bound to go awry but let’s hope not.
MW: What are your hopes for the industry in 2023?
MR: I hope the industry keeps on continuing to value creativity as the big unlock for business growth – especially in media it’s fun, and makes the world a more interesting, diverse, and colourful place.
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Top image: Margie Reid