This week, The Water Cooler got to know Group Sales Manager, Holly Dobson.
Holly recently made the move to Sydney, having previously worked in the Melbourne Paramount office.
Holly gave us some insights into her career journey, moving interstate within the company and why The Dog House Australia is the best. And, turns out she lives right near Mulan. Small world!
What is your role and what does it entail?
I am very recently a Group Sales Manager here in Sydney. My role entails leading my sales team of 4 to service our agencies Spark, Starcom, Stan, Mindshare, CHEP, Initiative/Magna & Essence to the highest degree. I am focusing on developing and growing our agencies and ensuring I am working closely with my team to implement strategies and plans to meet these objectives.
What drew you to a career in Sales?
Like a lot of people, my very first job was at a supermarket as a ‘check out chick’ and I absolutely loved the servicing side. I am a big people person and love working in a big team.
I studied Primary School Teaching and Nursing in University but decided to not pursue either of these careers and kind of ‘fell into media’. I wanted an admin role whilst I decided what I wanted to do and now here I am four and a half years later!
What are the biggest challenges in your role and how to face them?
I have truthfully only been in my role for a month now, so the biggest challenge I have faced so far in my role is slotting into a market that is quite different to where I was previously.
You recently made the move from Paramount Melbourne to Sydney. What was your drive behind that move and what was that process like?
I moved because I was presented an amazing opportunity, which is something I have been working towards.
I strongly believe that when an opportunity to better yourself in anyway presents itself, you would be mad not to take it.
I also know in order to better my career and get to where I want to be one day, you need to experience different media markets and Sydney was the next step for me.
The process was very simple and I highly recommend anyone thinking of making a move to explore it – it’s not as daunting as it seems!
I can thank Lisa Squillace, John O’Brien and Jin Subasinge for being an amazing support network throughout my move – it helps when you have great people and a great business behind you.
Tell us what you love to do outside of work.
I am a big family person which has made the move challenging in ways, but I am enjoying making new friends and hopping my way around Sydney’s restaurants!
I have also moved to Mosman which happens to be a very aesthetically pleasing location, so have really enjoyed the beach and exploring the amazing walks on offer.
Finally, what’s your favourite Paramount show and why?
The Dog House! It is the cutest, most heart-warming program ever. I am obsessed with dogs and often cry at the happy endings (don’t tell anyone).
