We sit down with Andrea Fones, Head of Project Management here at Cogent for a cuppa and a chat. We explore why she chose Project Management and why she likes working at Cogent.
What inspired you to get involved in project management in particular? Was this something you always wanted to do?
When I started in the industry (quite a few years ago now), I wanted to be an Account Manager. I really enjoyed working in a creative environment, so a role that balanced my creativity and organisational skills felt perfect. I hadn’t ever thought about Project Management. One day I was on a photoshoot with a client and my line manager contacted me about a role he thought I’d be perfect for – it was in Project Management. As soon as I started, I knew it was the role I should have done all along. I’ve never looked back. I’ve never actually told him, but I will be forever grateful.
What is it that makes Cogent different to other places you have worked at?
This one’s easy, we look after people.
This is my second stint at Cogent – it’s the people that brought me back and it’s the people that keep me here. Cogent has played such a big part in my life, not just professionally, but also on a personal level. It allowed me to grow within other agencies, and ultimately return to do a job that I love. I’ve also made great friends here, past and present. Such long-lasting friendships, that even endure buggy boot camp together!
What’s your career highlight to date, something you’re proud of?
There have been a few, but a turning point for me was launching F-TYPE for Jaguar Land Rover. At the time it was their biggest global product launch – sending the company in a new direction. I felt lucky to be involved in all aspects of such an important step-change for the brand.
Do you have a motto or ethos that helps you in your everyday work in the Project Management Hive? What keeps you going and ensures the work you do stands out?
"Live more, Worry less."
I don’t like people to worry, whatever their role. That’s my job. Worrying less about the process and project plan means we can focus on doing the work.
What does togetherness mean to you?
It means not having an ego. It means creating an environment where people can become the best versions of themselves. It means teams working together, so our best work is the focus and nothing else.
What part of your job do you enjoy the most and why?
Knowing that my team play an integral role in delivering great work for the agency and our clients. I feel incredibly proud to be working with such a talented team to do this.
That’s all from Andrea. Keep an eye out for next month’s TeaTalk where we’ll be sitting down with another member of the Cogent family.