Josh Dovey, CEO of OMNICOM Media Group Africa (2016 MOST Award winner), Bryan Gibson, MD at Thirdwave Media (2017 MOST Award winner) and Celia Collins, director of Amplify South Africa (2018 MOST Award winner) share six insights into what it takes to become a 'media agency legend'.

1. Have vision

"Have a really clear vision of what you want to achieve. Write it down and stick it on your wall," says Josh Dovey. 

2. Partner with media owners

"Treat media owners as you would treat your clients — they are our partners in giving clients the best solutions and they deserve to be heard, treated with integrity, professionalism and courtesy," says Bryan Gibson. "I know how difficult it is to form a relationship with the creative agency from our media agency towers, but it's hugely rewarding and worth the perseverance it takes."

"You have to be able to bring parties together and have meaningful conversations, get teams to compromise and find the common ground," says Celia Collins.

3. Have grit and determination

"Most people will tell you, in great detail, why it can't be done," says Dovey. "Don't listen to them. Or rather, listen to them, nod politely and then do what you were going to do anyway. If something is blocking your path go around it. Don't fight battles you can't win, refocus and find another way."

4. Give back to the industry

"A legend needs to have contributed to the industry, for example, through training and mentoring of new people coming into the industry, or by sitting on the boards of industry bodies," says Collins.

5. Work hard

"A legend has to put in the hard yards, the long hours, the night upon night of no sleeping, working on innovative client solutions and pitches, helping teams to win awards and new accounts and taking agencies to new levels," says Collins.

"More than ever we have to stay informed, as our planning choices multiply daily," says Gibson. 

6. Have fun

"I know times are tough and pressure is great but try to break away occasionally. We're in the best industry there is. Enjoy!" says Gibson.

Wayne Bischoff, Mediamark CEO, concludes, "We are proud to recognise the Media Agency Legend at the 2019 MOST Awards. [This is] the fifth year we are sponsoring this category. We are honoured to have the opportunity to once again highlight the achievements of a Legend whose talent, passion and commitment have made a mark on the industry."

For more information, visit www.mediamark.co.za. You can also follow Mediamark on Facebook or on Twitter

*Image courtesy of Mediamark