12 Questions : 20 People – #11 Jeffry Gamble, Group executive CD, DDB Group Hong Kong

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Jeffry Gamble.jpg 12:20 is a Sydney based creative consultancy that works with agencies across Asia. Recently, while working in Singapore and Hong Kong, Christian Finucane (left) and Jon Skinner (right) met with 20 creative leaders from the top agencies to discuss the opportunities and challenges for the industry. The interviews, ’12 Questions: 20 People’ are being published in a series of blog posts on Campaign Brief. The 11th interview is with Jeffry Gamble, Group ECD, DDB Group Hong Kong (pictured centre).

What’s the most exciting thing about working in Asia?

The energy. People don’t seem to know when to stop here, they just keep going and going. They push themselves really hard here.

What inspires you?

Anything. I just walk around with my eyes and ears open all the time. A lot of things may seem useless at first, but when you take in enough, sometimes the connections are made.

 

How has social media impacted creativity in the region?

It’s the same everywhere, not just in this region. It’s exciting, because it is such a great way to engage with consumers. And it also keeps everyone honest, because you know one false step and the whole world will know about it in a blink of an eye.

 

Third Eye.jpgWhat is the recent campaign everyone wishes they’d done?

I really wish I had done Third Eye from DDB Singapore, it was such a great idea that made a real impact on people’s lives.

 

Which clients are pushing the boundaries and how?

I can’t really say for anyone else, but for me, it will be my McDonald’s client, they are just very open-minded to new ideas.

 

Are there any cultural ‘creative watch outs’ working here?

I wouldn’t say watch outs, but like anywhere else you have to show an understanding of the consumer.

 

Which Asian country is punching above its weight creatively?

China has really come a long way in recent years and I am sure they are just going to get stronger.

 

Why does creativity matter?

Because it stops us from being stagnant, it keeps us thinking and pushes us to try new things.

 

What makes the local industry different?

I am not so sure that there is any real difference.

 

Cannes Titanium, Spikes Asia Grand Prix or AWARD Gold Pencil? Which and why?

They are all important, but Cannes is the one that is the most recognized.

 

What is the creative issue that frustrates you the most?

Too many, but the fun part is getting over them.

 

What’s the biggest opportunity for creative people?

The great thing about being in the industry right now, it seems like anything is possible. If you can come up with it, almost anything can be done.

12 questions to Alvin Lim DraftFCB Shanghai.

12 questions to Valerie Cheng JWT Singapore

12 questions to Ajay Thrivikraman Publicis S.E. Asia.

12 questions to Tay Guan Hin JWT Singapore.

12 questions to Jason Hodges Brilliant Agency Singapore.

12 questions to Andy Greenaway, SapientNitro Singapore.

12 questions to Paul Chan, Cheil Hong Kong.

12 questions to Ted Lim, Dentsu Network Asia.

12 questions to Eugene Cheong, Ogilvy & Mather Asia Pacific.

12 questions to Joji Jacob, DDB Singapore.