THE search is on for best new talent in direct marketing, following the launch of this year’s Young Spark Award – set up in memory of the late managing director of an Edinburgh-marketing based agency.
The UK-wide Young Spark Award is run by the Direct Marketing Association, which is hosting a ‘Scottish Ball’ in November.
Says the DMA: “The award is given to the most outstanding new talent in direct marketing from an agency, supplier or client company across digital, direct, interactive or mobile marketing. Nominees must have worked in the industry for less than five years.”
The award was launched two years ago in memory of John Young, former WWAV Rapp Collins Edinburgh managing director, who died – also two years ago – at the age of 38.
Adds the DMA: “John was recognised as one of direct marketing’s foremost practitioners and the DMA was keen to honour his achievements with an award which encourages new talent and a new generation of direct marketers.
“During his career as a direct marketer, John ran Wunderman in Amsterdam, was Joint MD of Claydon Heeley in London and set up CHJM’s Asian operation out of Beijing, before returning to Scotland to head up WWAV Rapp Collins in Edinburgh.”
Says Yvonne Balfour, chair of DMA Scotland: “The Young Spark Award is a brilliant way of recognising the future stars of the direct marketing industry and is such a fitting tribute to John.
“He was a great champion of the values, drive and professionalism that we are looking to celebrate. It’s vital that our industry focuses on developing, encouraging and recognising success from young people in direct marketing.”
The deadline for entries is Friday.
