George Vann returned to Ingenuity, where he started his career, when the new business agency launched its Northern base in Leeds earlier this year.
Vann had previously been Head of Marketing at Finn and rejoined Ingenuity to lead its new Leeds office, which is based at 34 Boar Lane in the city centre. Earlier in his caerer, he also spent time at McCann Australia, as well as customer experience agency Lavender.
Ingenuity, which works with both brands and agencies, launched its Northern office to offer clients in the region its suite of services – including pitch consultancy, PR, agency selection, and more.
We found out the lessons George has learnt.
Which single daily habit or practice could you not do without?
Between six and eight milk chocolate Hobnobs before bed.
What’s been your luckiest break?
Landing my first job at Ingenuity back in 2012 having sold carpet out the back of a Ford Mondeo for a year. I was 22 and had no idea about the industry at this stage – but was more than happy to learn.
My second luckiest would have to be the first hire we made at Ingenuity North, Dan Stott, as we start to really grow that arm of the business.
What’s your best failure?
It’s a bit boring, but attention to detail and rushing is something I always have to remind myself to keep an eye on. It’s something I’m aware of and am working to improve.
What is the best investment you’ve ever made, either financial or time?
My move to Australia for two-and-a-half years. I knew I wanted to keep working and building my career, while travelling at the same time, seeing somewhere new… and obviously getting a tan.
I also think spending time with new people whilst also investing the time to stay in contact with those I’ve met throughout my career is key.
Which book would you recommend others to read and why?
‘Stick Man’, I read it to my eldest every night for a year and it never got old.
What one piece of advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
You become what you give your attention to.
Who or what has had the single biggest influence on your working life?
My kids – they’ve helped give me perspective and allowed me to realise what I wanted to spend my time doing. You only get so much time.
Tell us something about you that would surprise people.
My life ambition is to get a Christmas number one. There has been a lack of iconic Christmas songs in the last 20 years, and I’d love to re-establish a Christmas classic.
How will the COVID crisis change work for the better?
People won’t have to spend as much time commuting and can instead spend more time with their friends and family.
What does success look like to you?
From a work point of view, it’s about creating great memories with the people you end up spending your entire life with, but that you aren’t related to.
