Welcome to Optimism

fame at last…

We're basking in the heady heights of stardom over here in Human Solutions. Our very own Sarah De Rosa makes it onto the front page of the Impact London website by starring in their 'HR in the Hot Seat' post.

Here she is talking about the glamorous world of HR. Enjoy.

Click on picture for more info.

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HR in the Hot Seat – 5 mins with Sarah De Rosa, Interim HR Manager at Wieden + Kennedy

What do you love most about your job?

The diversity of my role, I never know what the day will throw at me when I walk through the door! Working with incredibly talented and creative people and laughing every day! 

What are the three things you couldn't do your job without?

A great HR Assistant, a sense of humour and the ability to be adaptable to every situation, no matter how weird it is. 

What do you think makes a good HR Professional?

Being able to communicate with people at all levels.  Compassion, a good working knowledge of employment law and the ability to apply it to your environment.

Who has been your greatest influence?

Martina King was the MD at Yahoo UK & Ireland which was my first ever HR role, she was incredibly successful and always very busy, but had time for everyone. She showed compassion and was open and honest. All the things I hope I am. 

What are your tips for success?

Always be yourself, chose the right working environment that suits your personality. I could never work in a corporate environment as it would kill my spirit!  Don't take the first role you are offered when you are looking for a job, unless it is the right match for you. 

What do you do after a stressful day?

I have just started going to a Jane Fonda inspired workout class.  It is fun whilst being good exercise at the same time.  Also a nice glass of cold white wine always helps wash away a stressful day.

CREATIVE DIRECTORS CARLOS & LAURA JOIN W+K LONDON

W+K London is pleased to announce the appointment of creative directors Carlos Alija and Laura Sampedro, AKA “The Spaniards”. They will work across a variety of the agency’s portfolio of brands and commence work immediately. 

Husband and wife team Carlos & Laura arrive at Wieden+Kennedy London following a two-year stint in Australia as executive creative directors at BMF Sydney. They have been credited for playing a key role in the agency’s creative turnaround, as well as helping the shop’s main client ALDI reach record sales through a series of award-winning campaigns.

Before joining BMF, they made their mark on the Spanish and Latin American markets developing local and global work at Y&R, LOWE, TBWA, McCann Erickson, Publicis and BBDO. During almost six years at Señora Rushmore, one of WPP´s most interesting creative boutiques, their contribution helped the agency achieve top ranking in creativity and effectiveness five years in a row. A career highlight for the pair is winning the global pitch for the International Olympic Committee during Beijing´s 2008 games.

Their work has been recognized by many leading advertising awards including Cannes Lions, The One Show, Clio Awards and Effies. During their sixteen years in the industry they have worked across many categories for brands including Coca-Cola, Renault, ING, San Miguel Brewers, Diageo, Telefonica, ALDI, Unilever and Pepsico by doing what they enjoy most: solving problems.

Carlos & Laura say, “We couldn’t be more excited to join W+K London. It has not only created an amazing body of outstanding work but also the best culture for this to happen in. Tony and Kim's bear hugs are a bonus too. We come here with humbleness, reverential respect and a huge amount of passion to produce the best work of our lives.“

Tony Davidson, ECD of Wieden+Kennedy London, says, “The Spanish seem to be good at tennis, football and golf, so I thought why not advertising? We are always on the lookout for talented folks that solve business problems in original ways, and Carlos and Laura fit that bill. Also, I don't know why, but I'm just into hiring married couples at the moment.”

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