10 questions with... Emma Scott, CEO of Beano Studios
Each week, The Drum talks to a range of media and marketing professionals about their roles, but rarely do they get a chance to show who they are and what drives them as people. The Drum's 10 Questions series attempts to offer a little more insight into those personalities. Answering the questions this week is the chief executive of Beano Studios, Emma Scott.
10 questions with... Emma Scott, CEO of Beano Studios
What was your first ever job?
On the checkout at a massive Woolworths superstore. I learned how to do flash discounting in my head or else they made you stay back and clean the conveyor belts. My first and last uniform.
Which industry buzzword annoys you most?
“Casting”.
Who do you find most interesting to follow on social media?
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (‘AOC’). No matter what you think of her politics she has grown her followers and support exponentially through her incredible use of Twitter and Instagram. She comes across as authentic, witty, straight-talking and unlike most politicians, can get away with a bit of dancing.
What has been the highlight of your career (so far?)
My first big digital launch for the BBC in 2001 – a video on demand trial in Hull. Ridiculously ambitious, 10 years ahead of its time – but we learned so much and had the best fun. And of course setting up Beano Studios with the brilliant team taking the brand from a much-loved comic into a global entertainment business, digital platform and agency.
What piece of tech can you not live without?
My iPhone, Amazon, Ocado and Revolut. I can’t function, particularly since I had kids, without all forms of internet shopping.
Who or what did you have posters of on your bedroom wall as a teenager?
The Smiths, Red Wedge, John Peel.
In advertising, what needs to change soon?
A genuine, more collaborative way of working with clients without unnecessary layers. Scale is not necessarily the strength it once was. The big networks are struggling to stay relevant. The smaller, more agile independents are increasingly proving themselves, unencumbered by entrenched behaviours and outdated ways of working.
What is (in your opinion) the greatest film/album/book of your life?
Mary Poppins. Living life to the full is more important than work or wealth.
Which industry event can you not afford to miss each year and why?
I went to my first Cannes this year – I thought it was really fascinating although the money on show was an eyeopener!
What's the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Good things come to those who wait – frequently told to me by my old boss Greg Dyke, who is the least patient person I know. He was right; if you have a great vision, it always take longer than you think to deliver, but your patience and persistence will pay off.