Senior Executive - Media Planner at OMD MENA
Megan moved to Dubai from London in May 2022 as a senior planning executive. Beginning her career in London, she became a specialist across multiple investment channels, including OOH, audio, and TV. While working in a leading independent agency in the UK, Megan was exposed to various clients across several industries, such as FMCG, automotive, e-commerce, banking, and retail. Her first expertise was in performance- led accounts, with direct response activity. As her experience widened,
Megan managed clients, handling their brand-building strategies and their implementation.
Why did you choose this career path?
After university, the media world seemed like the perfect fit. I had a passion for building relationships with people and I felt working in this industry would allow me to do just that. It’s an exciting space to be in, with new challenges every day. No two days are the same.
How did you land this job?
After an internship at OMD in London, I worked at a British independent media agency for a couple of years and was thinking about what I wanted to do next. I was curious to understand how a network agency operated and to explore a new market. That’s when I saw the opening at OMD in Dubai. Till that point, I had mostly worked in the investment and some planning for offline channels across TV, OOH, and audio. This was an opportunity to venture further into planning.
How do you compare your work life vs what you imagined it would be?
Initially, I imagined it would take some time before I’d be able to deal with the aspects of the job I knew I would enjoy the most – such as leading presentations and handling strategy. However, within a short few months, I was empowered to take these tasks on – something I am very thankful for.
What do you wish you had been told before you started working?
There are a few things. First, be clear about what your goals and objectives are – both with yourself and your manager. They are on your side as much as you are. Second, trust yourself. You often know a lot more than you think you do and are capable of more than you expect. Lastly, I wish I had known that I would be presented with challenges and [that] it’s okay to ask for help.
What is the best thing someone could tell you about your work?
That it challenges the status quo and goes above and beyond what was asked for. I aim to add innovation and outside-the-box thinking to all my work, offering unique and carefully considered solutions to clients. The recognition of that effort is something I really appreciate.
What is the worst thing someone could tell you about your work?
I would be most disheartened by hearing that my work was either sloppy or the bare minimum, especially since I strive to deliver the best.
What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned at work so far?
Communicate. Whether it’s in regards to the work or working style, it is always best to voice how you feel to work towards a better outcome.
Who’s your role model?
My dad. Having been in the industry for a few years now, I realize how challenging it is, and therefore what an accomplishment it was that he was successful so young. Having moved to a new country and working in a completely different market, I now have a new level of appreciation for him having done that twice in his career.
If not this, what would you be doing?
I have always been fascinated with the law and, at school, was an avid member of various debating societies. Although it’s a very different career path, I think I would have pursued a career in the legal world, hopefully representing those who often don’t have a loud enough voice in our society.
What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?
I definitely still see myself working in the industry and at OMD in particular. Over the past nine months, I have learned so much and I can’t wait to grow more in the years to come. In 10 years, I hope to be championing innovative strategies that set the standard both regionally and internationally and be recognized for maintaining strong relationships with clients.
