This week we welcomed Ryan Lewis to the Search Seven family as our new Paid Media Director. By way of an icebreaker, we asked him a few questions about his career to date, the best piece of advice he’s ever been given and what his friends say about him.
When we asked for a mugshot, this wasn’t exactly what we had in mind…
What started you out in a career in Digital Marketing?
I intended to do a PGCE in PE Teaching when I came back from travelling, but couldn’t make the interview as I was still in New Zealand. I came back with no money and no idea what I wanted to do. My step-dad mentioned his mate owned a small digital marketing agency and needed a “PPC Account Manager” (whatever that was). This was my first step into digital marketing, in true “who you know, not what you know” fashion. I instantly loved the role: working with clients, the accountability of digital marketing and having a direct impact on the success of businesses.
What attracted to you the role at Search Seven?
Gavin’s persistence!
I joined Search Seven from Rakuten Marketing. Before moving there, I looked at Search Seven and loved the sentiment of its charity work. Search Seven offers a unique opportunity to combine technical and creative skills, while also making a meaningful impact on society.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work and what’s the best piece of advice you have been given?
My dad: “Work smart.. and if you can’t do that, work hard. If you can’t do that then ask questions because they’re laughing at you anyway.” This answers the first two questions here!
In your opinion, what’s the biggest misconception people have about digital marketing?
Great question. For SMEs, a big misconception could be that digital marketing is some sort of dark art, which can only be accessed by nerds. Another would be the lack of understanding that we are not magicians!
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate Hobnobs and beer. I have about a teaspoon of willpower when offered either of these things.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Professional cricketer or guitar teacher! Any sport where you stop halfway through to eat is a fantastic sport in my eyes.
What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?
A mixture of playing cricket/watching sport, having a beer or two and dog walking.
What three words would your friends use to describe you?
The first three are not suitable for the blog! However, generally I pride myself on being a very honest and supportive, if slightly rude friend. Also the one that says “F*** it go on then.”