Alex Blaikley

• Position/Title & Department:

Strategy & Innovation Director

• What’s the day job?

3 things: 

1. Helping our business development team - working with prospective clients to get the best from an agency. 
2. Working with our CSMs to identify growth opportunities for our clients, using our PAE model. 
3. Helping our HOD’s with product development and innovation

• How many years of professional experience do you have?

25 years

• How long have you been at I-COM?

 3-months.

• What are your areas of expertise or specialised knowledge?

Fortunate to have direct experience in almost all mediums. Having witnessed the birth of Programmatic display & Video - it’s the one area I’ve probably had more dealings in than others.

• Do you have any certifications or additional training related to your field?

I’ve been lucky enough to have been provided with some great training at Google, I've worked with the IAB and am currently a member of the IPA.

• Have you received any notable achievements or awards in your career?

Shortlisted for campaign awards for work with Craghoppers & David Attenborough. I’ve led a few successful pitches - probably the best feeling and contribution.

• Are there any significant accomplishments you would like to highlight?

Have worked with some great individuals at some great companies and continue to learn as our industry continues to evolve.

• What are your interests or hobbies outside of work?

Exercise (Golf, cycling, walking, running), watching my boys play sport. Holidays.

• How do you stay updated on industry trends or developments in your field?

Joining the IPA provides me with the opportunity and the push to keep progressing with valuable material. I also have a few sources of trusted industry news that I subscribe to. I filter out the interesting bits for my Monday morning commute.

• Extras:

Favourite Film: Beverly Hills Cop 1

Favourite Song: Up the Junction - Squeeze

Favourite Quote / Phrase / Saying: Dave Trott - ‘The problem is way more important than the solution. You’re never going to solve a problem at the level of the problem.’