26 July, 2018

Women In Media Profile: Karen Lewis

By Lauren Croft

Our Women in Media Awards are mere weeks away. And at B&T, we’re a firm believer in: if she can see it, she can believe it and then she can be it. So we’ve got some killer women to showcase!

Our last inspiring woman in media was Karen Halligan from KPMG, who said that seeing people she’s mentored move into more senior roles makes her most proud.

And today, it’s time for you to meet another Karen! Karen Lewis is head of digital and performance marketing at Salmat, and vice chair of the Digital + Technology Collective.

What was the best advice you were ever given?

Keep going. Not everything will go your way. Learn, evolve, adapt and if you get knocked down, get back up.

Also never make yourself less just so someone else can feel like they are more.

What women do you find inspiring?

Maya Angelou for her way with words and outlook on being generally kick ass!

Brene Brown, check out her Ted Talks, she is fantastic and very authentic.

What’s changed in your role since you started?

So much has changed across the industry since I started – the birth of Google Adwords and social networks, through to augmented reality and artificial intelligence being “normal”.

I suppose the exciting thing about this ever evolving space is the opportunity to be pioneers, the inventors and innovators. It’s so amazing to be a part of the change at such a head spinning velocity.

My role started as a web developer/designer back when everyone built websites from their bedroom. Now we have moved into the creation of compelling and immersive experiences. I cannot wait to see what the future holds.

What’s your proudest professional moment?

I think being asked to be part of the Digital + Technology Collective as Vice Chair. It’s a fabulous association and I was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the industry. This is the perfect place to to do that and it’s so exciting to be part of that journey.

What’s the most exciting thing about women working in senior leadership roles?

Working in a diverse environment and getting better representation around the boardroom table is always positive for any organisation.

Also from a perception standpoint, it’s an aspiration for young women to know it is possible. The glass ceiling is only glass until you crack it.

What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learnt in or out of the workforce?

Not everyone wants what you are selling. Sometimes it’s tough not to take this personally, but remember if you’re not landing in your delivery you need to change it up.

If this still doesn’t work, sometimes you have to walk away.

What advice would you give to young aspiring women?

Be open to learning and evolve but do not compromise your values.

If you can get a mentor that’s great but be your own cheerleader; back yourself.

Why are women vital to your industry?

Women bring a great perspective and passion to our industry.

I am for any form of diversity and people challenging the status quo, otherwise how do we grow?

B&T‘s Women in Media Awards 2018 will be held on Friday 17 August 2018 at Doltone House – Jones Bay Wharf. Grab early bird tickets to the event here and find all other info on the website.

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