IAB New Zealand’s Mix & Mentor Programme brought the AUT Business School, Auckland University of Technology and University of Auckland Business School faculty and students together with IAB New Zealand Members to create connections, explore digital advertising and demystify how the industry works.
The event featured a panel discussion to answer students' questions with industry leaders and IAB New Zealand Council Chairs and Vice-Chairs including Travena Addenbrooke, Marketing Transformation and GenAI Lead Spark NZ, Vice Chair IAB New Zealand Data, Privacy & Measurement Council; Kate Grigg, Head of NZ Publicis Media Exchange, Chair IAB New Zealand Digital Effectiveness Council; Lisa Ison, Head of Digital Product Monetisation, Sky NZ, Chair IAB New Zealand Emerging Technology Council; Qassem Naim, Founder Team Circle, Chair IAB New Zealand Data, Privacy & Measurement Council; and Richard Pook, Founder Youdooh, Chair Programmatic DOOH Working Group, with expert moderation from John Waltmann, Industry Manager, Google.
The discussion covered everything from getting a first role in the digital advertising industry to building confidence, understanding different parts of the ecosystem, navigating a career in a fast-changing, AI-driven industry and the importance of networking and soft-skills. It was a high-value session where no question was off limits and practical, real-world advice took centre stage.
Connecting tertiary students with our industry isn’t just about talent pipelines - it’s about shaping the next generation of thinkers. Digital advertising thrives on innovation and fresh thinking and we’re excited to be working closely with the AUT Business School, Auckland University of Technology and University of Auckland Business School.” - Rob Hutchinson, Chair IAB New Zealand, Chief Digital Officer TVNZ.
A big thank you to AUT Business School, Auckland University of Technology and University of Auckland Business School team for helping to make this event happen.
When industry meets education, something special happens. Our students get a direct view into a dynamic sector within which they hope to work - they get to see the why behind what they are learning in the classroom. Partnering with the digital advertising industry gives students a view into a very dynamic sector that is fast moving and changing all the time."
- Dr. Drew Franklin, Associate Dean External Engagement, UoA Business School.
Thank you to Google for hosting the event, and to the IAB New Zealand Members who are helping to pilot the first
6-month IAB New Zealand Mentorship programme with students from both tertiary institutions. If you attended the event you might spot yourself in the photo gallery here, and to find out more about the IAB New Zealand Mix & Mentor Programme check out the event video below👇🎓