This week’s Meeting of the Minds sees Monique Harris and Emma Yexley from Convo Media reveal their leadership heroes, current streaming binge, and career goals.
The Mediaweek series showcases diverse perspectives, thoughts and opinions by bringing together two different points of view from an industry rookie and an experienced expert.
Monique Harris, CEO, Convo Media
Favourite Podcast/Read – I have to go with my all-time favourite – Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard. The episodes with psychology professors from US colleges are my go-to. I love diving into how people think, react and interact, especially in team settings. There’s something about figuring out what makes people tick that I just can’t get enough of!
Current streaming binge – Oh, I’ve got a mix of nostalgia and new obsessions. Will & Grace (old school vibes, but still hilarious), Yellowstone (I know, I’m late to the party), and White Lotus (it’s like a train wreck I can’t look away from, but in the best way).
Misconception about your role – That it’s easy! Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love leading this ambitious digital ad company and working with such a young talented team, but there are days when I really question my sanity. Why did I choose to sell yet another digital advertising solution to ad agencies in Australia? It’s still challenging, but that’s what makes it so exciting.
Best career advice – Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. It sounds simple, but it’s the best way to succeed in my books. I know I don’t have to know everything and I trust my team to bring their ‘A’ game to Convo Media and we all have complimentary skills to work together as a well oiled machine. And of course we have a few good laughs along the way.
Leadership hero – I have always admired smart women in Media and there are thankfully many of them these days but Virginia Hyland, Imogen Hewitt and Rose Herceg have impressed me over my career with their ability to run ad agencies with intelligence and kindness.
How do you stay motivated – Honestly, it’s all about the team and the digital industry. I love coming into work every day with Emma and the team to collaborate and get great results for our clients. We might be small, but we’re definitely punching above our weight. And proving the naysayers wrong while having a blast in the process! That’s what keeps me fired up.
Best training course/session – Hands down, Myers-Briggs (MBTI) training. It was a million years ago, but understanding how people’s personalities work and learning to identify strengths and weaknesses has been a game-changer for me as a CEO. It’s a real superpower when it comes to managing teams.
I wish someone had told me – There’s no such thing as an overnight success. Building each of my digital companies has taken years of grit, hard work, teamwork and a mindset that failure isn’t an option. Oh, and one more thing – I wish someone had told me how much people value good, honest relationships. People like to deal with people they like, and I’ve found that over the years, colleagues, clients and even competitors have turned into lifelong friends.
Something that’s surprised you about the industry – The growth is wild! The digital advertising industry is now worth over $15 billion a year. When I started selling banner ads at Ozemail (feels like a lifetime ago), the industry was just starting out and valued at around $10 million a year. It’s crazy to think how much it’s expanded since then.
What’s your hot take on the industry – AI is changing the game – especially when it comes to creativity. It’s incredible to see how quickly it’s transforming the creative process. Plus I love the fact brands are finally moving away from the old-school display ads and really leaning into content amplification to truly engage with their customers. It’s the future, and I’m excited to be part of it!
Favourite way to switch off from work – I’m all about finding balance. On one hand, I’ll unwind with a couple of glasses of really good French rosé, some amazing antipasto and great company – whether it’s with my husband and my sons or good friends. On the other hand, if I need a complete reset, I’ll take a yin yoga class. The contrast is real, but it works!
Career goal for 2025 – My goal is simple – keep building Convo Media and keep having fun while doing it. The last 15 months have been challenging but fun at the same time and I’m pumped to see how far Emma and I can go with Convo Media!
Emma Yexley, Commercial Director, Convo Media
Favourite podcast/read – I only listen to murder podcasts…take that as you will!
Current streaming binge – Adolescence and a Reacher to cheer me up after.
Misconception about your role – Being a Commercial Director at an advertising tech company often comes with the assumption that I’m purely focused on chasing futuristic trends or diving into complex algorithms. While innovation is crucial, my role is about making sure our clients and partners are all hitting their KPIs so we can achieve ours. The customer is always right.
Best career advice – Know your worth and advocate for it. With the caveat that 20 years in and I use the phrase ‘can you explain that again’ more often than not. Ask questions.
Leadership hero – I am a huge Mike Wilson fan. It helps that I sound a little like him, but his curiosity in the market, his passion for all he is involved in and his patience and kindness are a winning combo for me.
How do you stay motivated – I am surrounded by very smart, funny and charismatic people at work. There is nothing more motivating than getting a group of very different people pulling towards the same goal. Lots of ‘Slay Queen’ also helps!
Best training course/session – I did a negotiation course in London when I started in media and I still draw on those learnings today.
I wish someone had told me – that I would one day be working for Monique Harris and she would actually value my thoughts and ideas. I would have been so much more confident back in the day! haha!
Something that’s surprised you about the industry – How quickly the advertising tech space adapts to shifts in consumer behavior and privacy regulations. The pace of change is staggering, but it’s also what makes this industry so exciting.
What is your hot take on the industry – We’re in an era where authenticity and data privacy will be the ultimate differentiators. Companies that balance cutting-edge technology with genuine, transparent relationships will lead the pack.
Favourite way to switch off from work – I need an even combo of no talking, early to bed nights, with time with my friends laughing. I wear a Whoop and my data has shown me that spending time with friends boosts my recovery. We love data!
Career goal for 2025 – To drive impactful growth and innovation at Convo Media, while continuing to build a culture of inclusivity, creativity and empowerment. Monique and I are so passionate about what we do – both internally and externally – and we’re committed to creating an environment where our amazing team feels valued, inspired and empowered to reach their full potential. Cultivating a place where talented people thrive isn’t just a goal; it’s a priority for us.
To take part in future editions of Meeting of the Minds, please email: [email protected]
Past editions of Meeting of the Minds.
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Top image: Monique Harris and Emma Yexley