It’s B&T’s Celebration Of Adland’s Over 50s! Meet Precinct’s Mick Thorp

Did you miss the latest print edition of B&T? Well, if you did, you need to urgently subscribe here.

And undoubtedly one of the standout features in the bumper new print edition is B&T’s ’15 Over 50′ feature that shines a light on some of the mature, wiser sages of Australia’s advertising, marketing and media industries.

With ageism an ongoing issue throughout adland, ’15 Over 50′ highlights the importance of having a few “grey hairs” about the place and the huge loss of experience, expertise and knowledge that exits when industry veterans quit for greener pastures.

Next in B&T’s ’15 Over 50′ profiles is Mick Thorp, the executive creative director at Precinct, which has recently merged with Hotwire. Having spent 35 years in graphic design, Thorp understands the hands-on nature of management, especially having spent 22 years as managing director of Billy Blue Creative in North Sydney. Here’s his experience in his own words:

“For young creatives, my advice is to stay fresh and relevant. Always be curious and be eager to learn and experience new things. For inspiration look beyond the screen. Believe in your abilities but never be afraid to ask for opinions and advice from others. Believe in the power of collaboration and team spirit with colleagues and clients. Always be professional and consider your suppliers as partners. Do right by them, never rip them off and they’ll never let you down.

Your first job can be so important. It conditions you for the rest of your career. Are you inspired by an agency’s portfolio, do you align with the company values and philosophy?

I have been in the industry for over thirty-five years and have seen a lot of change. How Apple, Adobe and the likes changed (and still do) the creative industry has been fundamental. The revolution was quick.

Back in the day we visualised with ‘squeakers’ (magic markers) and rub down transfer lettering. For goodness sake, we even stuck sheets of typeset copy onto board with hot wax!

The process of visualising/production became more efficient and polished. However, in the end it’s a great idea that is king! I really get a buzz when I see young and gifted talent coming up with the goods and presenting world-class ideas with flair and enthusiasm.”

What occupation would you have if you didn’t work in this industry?

Easy! A professional air guitar player. If anyone has seen me dance at a wedding then you’ll know that this is a skill I excel in!

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15 Over 50 Mick Thorp