CAMPAIGN MEDIA FACES TO WATCH 2019 – NAVYA SAJEEVAN, 29, SENIOR MEDIA MANAGER, SPARK FOUNDRY

Nominated by Pauline Rady, media director
“Over the past three years Navya has led the account team for Emirates NBD, a demanding performance-driven account that has been with Publicis Media for more than eight years. Navya was instrumental in diversifying our revenue streams with Emirates NBD by displaying the power of our consultancy services to accommodate their many needs. Navya led this initiative and showcased how we are firmly embedded in our client’s business by selling services ranging from HR Emirati recruitment consultations to hosting company-wide events around social media and content global best practices. Navya truly embodies Spark Foundry’s rallying cry to always bring heat to brands.”

Career path
“Eight years back, I started off as an account executive on the publisher side (Ikoo), managing different agency accounts from a client servicing aspect (awarded the best employee award in the first year, for work efficiency and managing client relationships), then later moved on to taking up a challenging yet interesting role in the programmatic space (Xaxis/ LightReaction) as I was always keen on learning campaign setups, troubleshooting any technical glitches, and wanted to grow my operational skills. I am currently working with Spark Foundry managing two leading banks in the UAE, covering media planning and strategy across offline and online media, supporting and working closely with the creative agencies and client, bringing award winning campaigns to life and recently winning Gold at Lynx.”

Guiding principles
One has to be super organised and structured at work because it just helps keep everything on track and under control – a skill that I learned from my dad. Push yourself to learn more than what you are required to do; versatility in different areas will always help grow your career path. Last, but definitely not least, cultivate an optimistic outlook and always stay positive.