Born: Auckland, New Zealand Worked in: New Zealand, London, Hong Kong, Shanghai Why do people see you as an innovator? Innovation is an attitude. There are those who are happy with the tried and tested, and those who want to push the boundaries beyond the tried and tested. One approach is a bit mundane, predictable and most importantly doesn’t drive differentiation or improvement. I believe I’m in the second group. We all have to innovate or we die. Companies, brands, people — those who don’t innovate are simply forgotten and inevitably die. What are biggest challenges you face in applying innovative thinking to international projects? Many people don’t understand the power of innovation for their clients, companies, brands or themselves. Often they blame the status quo on red tape or bureaucracy. Fortunately, I work in a company where innovation is part of our DNA, and nothing could be more refreshing. Being an “innovation evangelist” with my team is rewarding when I see the successful work they create for our clients. Do keep in mind that to innovate successfully one needs the support of many internal and external allies in your mission. A final note: Clients are the key to successful innovations. If they don’t get it, your innovation is doomed for the scrapheap.Current Clients: Huawei, Shangri-la Hotels, McDonald’s, FedEx, Financial Times & CNN
The Internationalist is grateful to SKY NEWS, who has been the exclusive sponsor of Agency Innovator activities since 2007.
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