Talent Talk: We Need Purpose Driven Jobs and Dreams Way Beyond Work
Between global pandemics, a remote working revolution and global movements calling for greater diversity, equality and accessibility in the creative industries, there has never been such a focus on talent in our business as there is right now. This series dedicated to the future of creative teams is supported by Partners in Crime (PiC). Founder of PiC Stephen ‘Goldie’ Goldblatt is throwing open a discussion on what’s next for talent. Hearing from some of the industry’s most forging agency leaders, heads of talent, culture and diversity, we will explore what leaders think we really need to do to retain and attract the best creative minds in the business AND deliver what clients need in one fell swoop.
Who better to kick this series off with than James Kinney, the compassionate and perceptive global chief people officer at Media.Monks. In addition to being a global advertising executive, James is a staunch mental health advocate. Through his personal Instagram, James voices his thoughts and feelings on matters related to wellbeing, education and acceptance, with hopes of empowering the next generation. LBB finds out how James combines this passion for motivational speaking with his responsibilities as global chief people officer at Media.Monks, to forge inclusive and welcoming work practices within the industry.
LBB> What is the biggest lesson you have learnt from leading talent and diversity teams at multiple agencies across the US?
James> The most common theme is the hope and optimistic nature of our industry's people. There is something about “maker culture” that is special. I do think we are ready for a new era and a new sense of pride.
LBB> At the age of 16 you were faced with the unthinkable task of having to relearn how to walk, a challenge you have spoken about and embraced openly. How did this life changing event impact your world view?
James> It was very difficult and set me up to have a deep amount of empathy, and to meet people where they are. All my relationships across the industry are deeply personal because I know what it is like to start over. It makes me the first person to answer the call when someone is in need.
LBB> How have your life experiences influenced your view of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) policies?
James> My childhood in Ohio has really helped me become who I am today. I grew up with African kids who spoke French and white kids who were truly Italian - just to name a couple - so diversity and culture has always been the norm for me, it’s nothing new. It wasn't until college that I started to see segregated groups. I've always had the ability to never meet a stranger.
LBB> When it comes to DEIB, what do you think is the most effective way of assessing the needs of your team?
James> It is largely mental health based and behavioural. Somehow we forget that everyone is a part of the solution and DEIB has become weaponised. This is sad and I'm working to change it. Human behaviour drives everything and we need to get out of this fear cycle.
LBB> In your experience, how do you empower creative teams to achieve their best work?
James> Creativity creates creativity, so give people art, music, film and a starting point, and they will always rise to the moment. This is my approach. The human mind has a job and that is to solve problems creatively.
LBB> Are there any current trends that are affecting Media.Monks hiring process right now?
James> We've deployed net promoter scores to understand the candidate experience. What we've learned is that people want purpose-driven jobs and have dreams way beyond work. We use this to shape our operating model of creative-first – break it and make it.
LBB> Your passion for the wellbeing and widespread diversity and inclusion of all people extends beyond the 9-5, and you run a motivational Instagram account geared towards combating common mental health challenges. How does this work inform the job you do as global chief people officer at Media.Monks?
James> As a survivor of anxiety and depression, I use my Instagram and public speaking as a way to bring a human touch to what it means to be an executive. I got into the creative business to help people, and this small outlet allows me to have a direct impact, including my One Man Show where I act and perform about mental health topics.
LBB> Finally, what do you believe to be the secret to forging long-lasting cultural impact?
James> Long lasting culture is about constantly reinventing yourself in art, culture and business. One of my favourite artists is John Mayer and he never rests on his last record. There is always a fresh approach that builds on the last. Our industry is moving fast so let's roll with it. I actually recorded three songs last year and put them out, not because I want a record deal but because I'm eager to always push the creative bar.
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