Beyond the Brief

Funny, insightful and poignant personal reflections about life in advertising from a cross-section of individuals at 4A’s member agencies

The 4A’s has partnered with The Drum to present “Beyond the Brief.” This exclusive series delivers funny, insightful and poignant personal reflections about life in advertising from a cross-section of individuals at 4A’s member agencies. Members can submit their stories here. Eligible submissions will be included on the 4A’s website, and 100 member stories will be featured on The Drum throughout the year.

“The Filmmaker” — Featuring Law Chen,
BBDO

It’s “the work, the work, the work” that goes down at BBDO on a daily basis, or in director Law Chen’s case: the shoot, the shoot, the shoot.

“The Metal Worker” — Featuring Ramla Ali, GSD&M

Fundamentally inspired, with an edge. If you could describe GSD&M junior art director, Ramla Ali, you can start with the metal she frequently listens to.

“I’m Lucky to be Doing This” — Featuring Pam Fujimoto, Wongdoody

The E in Wongdoody’s ECD Pam Fujimoto’s title doubles for exceptional—listen to her Exceptional Women Out West interview, and you’ll get it.

“Keep the Main Thing, the Main Thing” — Featuring Diamia Foster, McCann

Making sure her voice is heard in this industry isn’t an issue for MAIP 2014 alumna and McCann associate strategist Diamia Foster.

“Create Content People Want to See” — Featuring Steve Radick, Brunner

With integrated marketing, publicists like Steve Radick have just as much say on the creative output as creative directors.

“Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable” — Featuring Anne Elisco-Lemme, Duncan Channon

Duncan Channon executive creative director Anne Elisco-Lemme knows that sometimes the best kind of work is the kind that turns heads and stirs the pot.

“The Magician” — Featuring Dan LaCivita, Firstborn

Dan LaCivita

Some will call staying at one agency for over 13 years magic. Some will call it a sign of endurance. To Firstborn CEO Dan LaCivita, it’s both and more.

“Don’t Be Afraid To Screw Up” — Featuring Pej Sabet, Pitch, Inc.

Learn how Pitch, Inc’s CFO/COO Pej Sabet’s knowledge over currency helps give his agency its foothold as a scrappy shop on the rise.

“The Brand Steward” — Featuring Skip Tramontana, Innocean

Skip Tramontana treats every brief like a football being handed off to him: secure the insight, dodge any obstacle, always push the creative to a first down.