The AMG’s ‘Are suits nothing more than bag carriers’ sell-out debate in Sydney a success
The Account Management Group (AMG) launched in NSW last night, becoming the fastest selling event to be held by The Communications Council.
Held in the basement of The Bavarian Beer Café on York Street, Sydney, the room was filled with over 300 industry professionals, keen to see whether today’s leaders believe account managers are still viewed as ad men or simply bag men.
Says Naren Sanghrajka, AMG NSW chairman: “It was fantastic to see such a great turn out, and the volume of interest goes to show that this group and our focus is both needed and appreciated among the NSW community. The role of account managers has undoubtedly changed but, as last night proved, there is still a lot of confusion 
and contention around what that new identity is. With the support of our members, our aim is to help define that role through events like this and by moulding our focus to deliver the support and representation that our members need.”
Mediated by Network 10’s Russel Howcroft, a six-strong panel 
sparked feisty debate, with perspectives put forward from account management, strategy and planning, creative, media, technology and production, and the client.
Panellists included:
Chantal Walker, Marketing Director, Foxtel – Client representative
Nitsa Lotus, General Manager, TBWA – Account Management
Ian Perrin, CEO, ZenithOptimedia – Media
Steve Back, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy Australia – Creative
Sudeep Gohil, CEO, Droga5 – Strategy & Planning
Bryan Jones, Technology Director, R/GA – Production & Technology
The AMG in NSW will hold a further four events this year. To gain access and receive a range of additional benefits, annual membership packages can be purchased for $120.
For further details on AMG benefits, visit here. Interested participants, including anyone who would like to engage with the group as a consultant or event speaker, may also contact Gawen Rudder on 02 8297 3807.
(Pictured: 1. Nitsa Lotus, Steve Back, Bryan Jones, Sudeep Gohil, Russel Howcroft; 2. AMG Crowd; 3. Ian Perri, Chantal Walker, Nitsa Lotus; 4. Margaret Zabel)