Say hello to Jess

Jess Ellis joined the Proctors team just before Christmas, and now heads up our Business Development function. Some of you have been lucky enough to meet her already, but for those who haven’t, here’s the five-minute low-down…
 
Let’s start with an easy one… Jess, tell us where you’ve been?
I’ve been in the world of marketing at various levels for the past five years. From beginnings in experiential marketing – implementing and managing large-scale national roadshows for the likes of Heinz and Unilever – I moved to pastures new, capitalising on my creative background in an agency environment as a business development manager, mainly for B2C brands.

From there, I moved into the world of B2B marketing and advertising, where I developed business and managed large accounts in the oil and gas, and private sector services industries.  So taking all that experience into account,  I’ve safely and happily landed at Proctors…
 
It sounds like you’re a bit creative at heart then?
Yes, I would say so – but with strong business acumen. I always knew from a young age that I would work in business development of some sort, but have natural talent for art and design. So I explored that with an art foundation and BA Hons in Visual Communications at Leeds College of Art and Design.

Business development can be quite a hard place – you’re often stuck between a rock and a hard place, plugging away to understand clients’ requirements to find the best fit –  but my degree gives me a creative edge and understanding outside of the hard-nosed sales approach. This, coupled with the diverse experience I’ve gained, helps me to better understand and empathise with the challenges clients face, while encouraging them to really make the most of our creative resources.
 
Tell us a little more about your typical day…
I’d say my day is about keeping my ear to the ground, constantly looking for opportunities and making links with great people.

I always start the day with a good read of latest industry news, as it’s important to learn what everyone else is up to, and discover what’s working well.

Business development is about talent and, ultimately, trust, so my days aren't spent convincing companies that we are great to work with – we have plenty of proof from previous clients to do that – but engaging in the challenges clients are facing. It’s my job to understand how Proctors can make our clients’ communications more effective and more profitable, and as we always aspire to provide the facts and figures to show a return on any investment spent with Proctors, it’s a job I take immensely seriously.  Actually, that’s why I love this company – it's not just about making things that look great and communicate well, it’s about the figures that show our projects work well, too.
 
But why Jess, should people pick up the phone and give you a ring first?
Because I’m jolly good fun [she is, too! – Editor’s note], and I’m not in the business of hard selling. I’m good to have a chat with, get some gripes about your day-to-day activity off your chest… and you never know, I may have come across a similar dilemma before. Advice is always free, remember.

The way I see it is simple: Proctors may not be the right agency for your brand, and objectives, but why not have chat to find out?
 
Finally, let us in on a secret – what would we never guess about you?
From the little picture on the website you’d never guess I’m 6ft tall – almost a giant, in lady terms I’m sure!
 
So, if Jess hasn’t introduced herself to you yet, why not make the first move? Her direct dial number is 0117 3148709 and she’d be delighted to hear from you. Alternatively, drop her an email.