So Daisie, let’s start with some work-related questions. What does a typical workday look like for you?
As a Junior Account Director, I’m an organiser and a strategist. I’m in charge of leading media and events strategy and making sure my client teams are consistently delivering against targets and following campaign plans to the tee. I liaise with clients to make sure they’re receiving the service they expect, and that they provide us with the information and resources to meet (and exceed!) their expectations. I’m also a sounding board for my client teams, making myself available to listen, guide, and advise them.
How did you get to where you are now? What was your first job?
My first-ever job was as a waitress at a local Italian restaurant when I was sixteen, it was lots of fun. During university, I did a year in business as a Marketing Assistant at a financial advice firm as part of my International Business degree, which is where I discovered my passion for PR. I went on to intern at fashion brands including Whistles and Phase Eight. From there, I worked my way up and moved into the PR space with an MCIPR accreditation, and here I am now, with ten years of experience under my belt!
Now that you’ve been in PR for a while, what’s your proudest work achievement to date?
I’ve been at GOLD79 for three years now, and I’d say my work with Jet2.com and Jet2holidays has been among my proudest achievements. When working with travel clients, crisis comms is always on the radar, and nothing is completely predictable. From air traffic control issues to wildfires, I’ve helped the brand navigate a range of situations both as part of the account team and on a week-long secondment in-house at Jet2. Every crisis is a learning curve, but we always come out the other side as a stronger and more capable team.
Who’s your most famous contact?
I’ve been lucky enough to work with a few household names over the years. I once had dinner with Strictly’s James and Ola Jordan. I’ve also met AJ and Curtis Pritchard, and done a photoshoot with Gabby Logan at her house. Her dog Maverick is very cute. Oh, and I’ve got Jodie Kidd’s phone number!
What’s something no one at work knows about you?
I’m a qualified wedding planner. I loved planning my sister’s wedding so much that I decided to get a qualification with different modules about building a rapport with the happy couple, sorting flowers, photography, catering etc. It definitely appeals to my natural organisational strengths, and if I ever get fed up with PR, I’ve got a plan B!
What about outside work? Tell us what your perfect weekend looks like.
I’m a keen traveller, so my ideal weekend definitely doesn’t take place in the UK. I’d probably be ticking off one of the locations on my five-year travel bucket list. Ideally, somewhere with good food that’s got plenty to explore on foot. Heading to a new city with no plan or itinerary is my favourite way to change my perspective and clear my mind.
Have you got any hidden talents?
I’m an aerial hoop artist. I was introduced to the sport seven years ago by a friend, and have loved it ever since. It’s a physical challenge but it’s so fun that you barely notice the exercise, and the whole community is really supportive. If I ever run away with the circus, you’ll know why!
What about guilty pleasures?
I love a long-haul flight – although it’s more of a guilt-free pleasure for me. I can sit and do nothing for hours, no one can contact me, and I’m free to watch bad films without judgement. It’s the best excuse to do nothing – you even get brought food!
Nice! And where are you flying to? What’s your dream holiday destination?
Canada. I love being near water, and it’s a destination that has it all. Mountains, lakes, and beauty in every season.
I’m sure you’ll want some kind of refreshment when you arrive. What are we drinking?
It has to be a Margarita. There are so many flavour options, and you can’t go wrong with a frozen one in summer. The best ones I’ve ever had were in San Diego, although I’d love to taste the OG Mexican recipe – that’s one for the bucket list.
Thanks for sharing, Daisie. It’s great to get to know you better. You must have some enviable holiday snaps!
If you enjoyed reading all about Daisie, stay tuned for the next instalment of Getting to Know GOLD, where we’ll put the spotlight on another team member.