Say hello to Samantha Billingham, Sales Manager in AdColony Dubai! Whether she’s meeting with clients, working on briefs, or getting our newest office up and running, Samantha has a packed daily schedule.
She is well equipped for any challenge that comes her way though, with over 16 years of experience in several different media disciplines. Samantha is an expert at maintaining both agency and client direct relationships, and has a passion for video production. She enjoys listening to marketing podcasts, reading, and painting on the weekends. Samantha, it’s time for you to get AdColonized!
What exactly does a Sales Manager do at AdColony? What’s an average day like for you?
My day is spent seeing clients – both agency and client direct. I have a great support team, which allows me to spend most of my time with clients, working on briefs and understanding their mobile requirements. I have 3-4 meetings a day. Most of the agencies are in an area called Media City, so you can literally walk from agency to agency, which is not fun in the current weather! We hit 48 degrees celsius this week!
Tell us a little about your experiences prior to joining AdColony & how they have prepared you for your role here.
I have been in media for 16 years – across various forms of media, including in-store media and activations, events, outdoor media, and TV production. I used to produce TV ads for a number of brands I work with now, so it’s great to understand the work that goes into creating the videos we use across our platform. I have a real passion for video as a whole – not just the media side, but the story that brands create.
What made AdColony the right fit for you?
I have worked for AdColony for almost 3 years now, initially in Africa and now in Dubai.
The global business with a great reputation and products that deliver… that is also expanding into new markets. The opportunity to start the Middle East office is a really exciting challenge for me.
How do you keep growing & learning in what you do?
I love reading, so I spend quite a bit of time online reading media related publications, following key influencers in the space on LinkedIn, and listening to podcasts. My favourite podcast is Six Pixels of Separation and The Bean Cast – very topical and relevant to the marketing industry.
What are your hobbies or activities that you look forward to doing on the weekends or after work?
I recently started painting! I love spending the day at the pool with a good audiobook. Adult colouring. I have a 10 year old daughter and it is something we do together. Lazy morning with pancakes, music and “let’s colour.”
We have 2 dogs and take them most weekends to a nature reserve where they are able to swim in the lakes.
Which app is keeping you engaged lately? Why?
I recently downloaded Headspace which is a meditation app – loads of different meditations for newbies. I have been trying to get my Zen on.
Colour switch – my go-to app if I have 5 minutes to kill between meetings.
What’s one thing not many people know about you that you’re willing to share?
I used to be involved in dog shows. I’m obsessed with Miniature Schnauzer dogs. I was a pageant doggie mom.
Do you have a nickname at work? If so, is there a story behind it?
Nope.. I do prefer being called “Sam”, most people call me Sam rather than Samantha.
What is your favorite moment you’ve had with the AdColony team so far?
I previously worked with AdColony in Africa (before moving to Dubai to start the Middle East office). The team is loud and proud so we always have a very positive vibe in the office. We did a team trip to Mauritius last year with clients which was awesome. Work hard – Play hard!
About AdColonized
Each AdColonized feature shines a light on a different member of the AdColony team. From favorite apps and hobbies to dislikes and odd secrets, we cover it all! Who do you want to see on the next AdColonized? Tweet it to @AdColony. For the latest AdColony mobile news and updates, follow @AdColonyon Twitter, like us on Facebook, or connect on Linkedin.
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