Alex Hobbs: group sales leader at oOh!media
Time in current role/time at the company:
Five and a half amazing years with oOh!media.
How long have you been in the industry?
I started my media career in 2015 working with Mediacom (now EssenceMediacom) and from there have remained in out of home.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
Like many, I “fell” into media! My heart was initially set on public relations or becoming a wedding planner (can you tell I’m a social butterfly?). During my studies I interned at Pure Public Relations (PPR), living my PR dreams. I was fortunate enough that my office was a part of the WPP group, giving me exposure to media agencies and creative companies. While interning and studying, I also took on a one day per week reception role within the WPP group – which I would come to learn was an amazing decision. This network is still made up of my colleagues, and I have leaned on them to explore different OOH opportunities within Brisbane across the years, which helped me to return home with oOh!media.
Who is your right-hand person/who guides you day to day?
When I need to bounce an idea, check my approach, have a laugh, or let go of a frustration I turn to my fellow leaders, Ben Peel and Sorren Trifunov. They are always generous with their time and guidance and help to fill my cup back up. It’s so important to know you have people in your corner cheering for you.
Outside of business hours, my partner Jordan is my absolute rock. Media can be non-stop, and Jordan constantly reminds me to move my body, turn off notifications and makes me laugh.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
Without a doubt the people. I am surrounded by inspiring, ambitious, and supportive people. Some of my best friendships have been founded in this industry, alongside mentors, all relationships I truly treasure. Speaking about OOH, we are a sector which is continuously innovating and growing. It’s the best time to be in OOH and being with oOh! is truly empowering as we optimise our national network and make public spaces better via our infrastructure and brands.
And the biggest challenge?
Personally, the ability to switch off is a common challenge. I developed a “bad habit” from day one of always being contactable. It was only this year, with mentorship, that I managed to turn off some notifications and establish healthy boundaries for myself. I believe the biggest challenge we face in OOH is striving to ensure a seamless customer experience in an evolving and data driven media landscape.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
In my current realm, my sights are set on QLD State Director or a senior leadership role within oOh! in Brisbane. A lofty ambition! I am so lucky to be surrounded by leaders locally and nationally who encourage and nurture this aspiration, including Ben Peel.
If experience and finance were not an issue, I would love to become a founder of a not-for-profit animal shelter. When I think of a legacy I want to leave behind, I believe this would truly be admirable.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
I use my drive to and from work to inspire myself with a banging playlist or podcasts such as: The Imperfects and Diary of a CEO. If my tank is running empty, I know I need to jump in the car with my dog and get to a beautiful QLD beach.
My favourite advert is (and why):
This year I found my inner fangirl for sports due to the Matilda’s. “Play Until They Can’t Look Away” with Adidas showed equality and approached sports sponsorship/awareness differently. Of course, it also featured female role models larger than life via an OOH campaign.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I’m a straight shooter, so people know a lot about me and my thoughts. However, I do have a fear of letting go, you won’t find me cliff diving and I still can’t master the monkey bars.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
I wish I had a crystal ball. Ideally, I will still be in a people leader role, with aspirations to become a senior leader within oOh! and inspire others. I hope I’m continually learning in my personal and professional life and have mastered the skill of not shying away from uncomfortable conversations. Most of all I hope I’m laughing a lot, enjoying a simple life with Jordan and our doggo Brax.
