10 questions with... Claudine Collins, managing director of MediaCom UK
The Drum speaks to people across the global media and marketing sector who are bringing something a little different to the industry and talks to them about what little insights they can offer the rest of us. This week's 10 Questions With... features Claudine Collins, UK managing director of MediaCom UK.
Claudine Collins, managing director of Mediacom UK
What was your first ever job?
My first ever job was selling shoes in Bally on a Saturday when I was 14. I was very proud to be top saleswoman nearly every week and maybe that’s where my love of shoes has come from.
Why did you get into Advertising?
I was supposed to go to University to study Law but for one reason or another decided not to go. So I went to the careers library, started at A in the careers booklet and got as far as Advertising and thought it looked like fun. So I applied to go on the advertising course at Watford College, got accepted and the rest they say is history!
Who is the person you most want to meet in the industry and why?
Rupert Murdoch – he is a legend!
What’s the most surprising thing you have learned about the Advertising sector?
At my age, not much surprises me but it still surprises me how we all look out for each other even though we may be the fiercest of competitors.
What have you learned from any mistakes you’ve made in your career?
That you have to learn from them and move on. Its ok to make one mistake but it’s not ok to make it again. Everyone should be given a second chance.
You go to the bar for a drink at an awards night – what do you order?
Red wine in winter, gin and tonic in the summer or sparkling water if I am on Weight Watchers for the 150th time!
What is the most exciting thing about your job?
Working with hugely talented people and trying to keep up with the changing landscape.
Ogilvy or Bernbach?
Ogilvy
Best book you have ever read?
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
What's the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Don’t worry about things that haven’t happened yet. If bad things happen inevitably you’ll deal with it. Don’t worry about what may happen. (I have realised recently that I am more of a worrier that I thought I was, so great advice but sometimes hard to implement!)
10 Questions With... will return next week.