The advertising industry in this region has plenty to shout about when it comes to gender diversity. We recently interviewed a number of female executives for our annual Women in Advertising issue and there were lots of positive comments about the progress being made.
But no-one will deny there is a lot more work to do in leveling the playing field. We will be publishing these interviews online at Campaign Middle East and in our September issue.
Nadin Al Alami, Managing Director, Horizon FCB Kuwait
Prior to my current role, I worked with two leading WPP companies. Over the span of 21 years I held the position of Managing Director at Wunderman Thompson and Country Manager at ASDA’A in Kuwait.
Do you think the industry has become more inclusive?
There’s no doubt that the industry is readily implementing policies of inclusion in every form possible, yet there is always room for improvement. The concept of inclusivity has become vital to business, there’s an increased global awareness around the idea and many companies are aspiring to practice it.
That’s why it’s important to comprehend what it actually means and how it makes a difference.
Companies need to recognise that it’s essential for gaining employee satisfaction, sustainable development, creativity, innovation and profitability, all of which lead to the overall well-being and growth of industries.
Women today are unstoppable; they broke through the glass ceiling and are holding top leadership positions within the industry. Their efforts are ensuring female voices are heard while also providing career opportunities and mentorship for aspiring women.
What has been your high and low point as a woman in advertising?
When it comes to a low point, I would say that for many years I struggled with finding the elusive ‘work-life balance; a struggle that came with a sense of guilt I felt for not spending enough time with my three children.
That is, until I sat down with my eldest and asked her how she felt about my busy schedule. I wanted her to be open about her resentment if she felt any, but she surprised me by saying that my work ethic and focus is a huge inspiration to her and that she hopes to have the same dedication in the profession she chooses.
That was a beautiful relief, a low that revealed itself as a high. As for the high points, over the span of 21 years in the industry I think I really appreciate being recognised as one of the PR pioneers and leading talents in Kuwait back in 2001.
And later as the youngest female country manager at the age of 30. But the most notable high point would be my decision to shift from PR to the world of advertising, from which I’ve learned and grown so much.
Each of these highs serves as proof that working smart and hard leads to success, and that being a woman is no longer a hindrance.
What advice would you give to women starting out in the industry?
Keep moving and everything else will fall in place for you, make those tough decisions, work hard, take chances, be fearless, learn more, accumulate experiences, have fun, and above all trust yourself.
Surround yourself with people who believe in you and stay away from those who will drain your energy, discourage you or hold you back and know that there is no one right way to do things, find your preferred method and improve it.
