A GAME OF STRATEGY

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB FUNCTION

I am a marketing strategist and work for a leading media solutions company that represents wellknown radio and online brands in South Africa. One of the important functions I assist with is providing insights – from consumer to business, competitor analysis to current trends, and everything in between – to benefit our stakeholders and our clients.

WHY MARKETING?

The science of marketing, particularly the drivers that influence a consumer’s reaction to a brand or advertised message, aroused my curiosity. Coca-Cola is a wonderful example of a brand’s longevity and success. Launched in 1886, the brand has touched the hearts of millions through clever advertising campaigns and remains the biggest-selling soft drink in history, as well as the best-known product in the world.

WHERE DID YOU TRAIN?

I completed a marketing degree graduating with honours from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. After studying, I entered the dynamic and is extremely beneficial and this is invaluable, especially when trying to come up with solutions to some of the complex problems that we’re o en faced with.

WHICH ASPECTS OF YOUR WORK ARE YOU LEAST ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT?

Due to the competing demands that I have to deal with, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in a day, at times. Juggling multiple priorities at once is the norm, and this can mean working long hours, which can be quite taxing on a person if it goes on for sustained periods.

WHAT’S BEEN THE GREATEST HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER IN ASSET MANAGEMENT TO DATE?

My greatest highlight was being promoted to portfolio manager earlier this year, because this was recognition of the hard work that I have put in since I first started my career. I’m extremely proud to be one of the few black female portfolio managers in an industry that definitely needs to be more transformed.

exciting world of media, working in radio and top-end glossy magazines.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY

There is a lot of variation within the job spec so a typical day involves a fair amount of multitasking ranging from brainstorming ideas for longterm planning, to profiling audience demographics.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

The mental stimulation, analytical as well as creative input, and colleagues who believe that teamwork gives us the edge!

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?

The tight deadlines and long hours that add to the stresses of modernday life.

CAREER HIGHLIGHT?

Being awarded Radmark Employee of the Year, which was an immense honour as my colleagues work to very high standards. I attended

What Goals

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOURSELF ACHIEVING IN THE FUTURE?

In the short to medium term, I want to excel in my new role, and to ensure that I deliver on the promises that we’ve made to our clients, who have entrusted us with managing and growing their money. There’s always room for improvement, so staying on top of my game and continuously learning is of utmost importance to me.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING A CAREER IN THE FIELD OF ASSET MANAGEMENT?

I believe in the importance of hard work and the impact on one’s life that this can have when coupled with grabbing opportunities that come your way, no matter how far out of your comfort zone they may take you. As the popular saying goes, “Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone”.

DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Challenging. Rewarding. Ethical a radio conference in the heart of London as a prize.

EXPERIENCE VS TRAINING?

Enthusiasm, a positive attitude and a good dose of common sense can certainly make up for a lack of experience or formal training!

WHAT ABILITIES DOES A STRATEGIST REQUIRE?

A strategist should have the ability to plan ahead, be able to pay attention to detail, and possess excellent communication skills. They should also have a love of research and reading, and a peoplecentric approach.

ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?

The field of marketing has broad scope with many options and career paths. There is a marketing function within any business, and any industry. Be curious and read as much as you can on various topics. Then you will come across as someone who is informed, interested and insightful.

YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS

Challenging • Stressful • Rewarding

Jacob Sibiya COPYWRITER Self-employed