Who are you? And what’s your job at Whiteoaks?
Hi, I’m Zach (with a ‘h’) – and I’m a Junior Account Executive in Team Aries.
What does your daily to-do list look like?
Sorry to be cliché, but I’ve discovered that every day is different from the next! The few constants that exist see me start my day with a cup of coffee and a read through of my emails. I then have a look through all of the morning news stories, and then ensure everything is in place for the day ahead, from co-ordinating the writing schedules, producing client call agendas, to proofreading articles.
What made you want to get into PR?
My degree in Creative and Media Writing was a great choice because it allowed me to explore both my creative and journalistic writing styles. However, despite really enjoying inventing my own stories and writing screenplays, a career in public relations became something I wanted to pursue as I loved being involved in a media-facing role that changes daily based on events around the globe. So, 10 days after my final exam at Uni – here I was at Whiteoaks!
Who is your favourite brand and why?
This is an easy one for me – Nike. I’m a massive sports fan, and I’d say about 90% of my sports clothing at home is Nike branded. I’d love to say that it’s the high-quality fabric or some other technical reason as to why I feel this way, but a more accurate answer is quite simply Rafael Nadal. The tennis star has always been my favourite sportsman, so I’ve bought Nike (and Babolat) products from a young age as they’ve always been Nadal’s sponsor. Chelsea Football Club is also in partnership with Nike now– which only deepens my brand loyalty. Sorry Adidas.
What’s your top tip for someone who wants to get into the PR industry?
I didn’t have any specific PR experience before starting here, so I guess I’m a good example of how getting into PR can be done. However, what also helps is any media or marketing experience that you can get – the more, the better. I would also say having a good understanding of current affairs and keeping up with the latest news stories is always good practice, even if it’s just spending five minutes in the morning on the BBC News app.
How do you unwind after a day in the office?
I normally spend my evenings watching either live sports, trashy TV, or whatever Netflix show I’m currently binging on. At the moment I’ve got the World Cup, Love Island, and FRIENDS (on a year-long loop), so I’m able to do all three!
What’s your favourite anthem suggestion for Friday’s Whiteoaks Power Hour?
I listen to a wide variety of music, but I’m not sure how my go-to hip-hop playlists would go down in the office. I’d probably pick a proper feel good track like Bob Marley – Three Little Birds. Or anything from Hans Zimmer, which is perfect concentration music.
If you could be any character in any film, what would you be?
I absolutely love Harry Potter, so probably anyone from those films. Maybe not Harry though, being ‘the chosen one’ would simply be too much pressure. But anyone else for sure. Who wouldn’t want their own wand and go to school at Hogwarts?
What’s your ideal getaway location?
Anywhere that’s 30+ degrees and has sand. I went to Barbados when I was younger so would love to go back to the Caribbean. I’m one quarter Grenadian, so probably there.
What’s your go-to party trick?
I once opened a bottle of champagne (Prosecco) with a knife after seeing it in the film What Happens in Vegas. Although, I don’t confess to be an expert in the art.
And finally, cheesy chips?
Chips, pasta, beans – anything covered in cheese and I’m all over it.
