Jamie Gee is the co-founder and managing director of creative-led marketing communications agency Jam.
She launched the business in 2006 alongside Dave Gee in 2006, with Jam now working with a client portfolio that currently includes Raisin UK, Manchester Pride, Constance Hotels & Resorts, Dematic, and Perfect Pet Insurance.
From lucky breaks to how she dealt with a verbally abusive client, she shares some of the lessons she’s learnt across her life and career so far…
Which single daily habit or practice could you not do without?
Coffee and a walk in the fresh air. Walking outside is great for clarity.
What’s been your luckiest break?
Jam and everything about it! When we launched in 2006 we were one of a handful of boutique agencies. We were up against the big boys at pitches – we were lucky to even get on the pitch list, let alone win, but win we did! And we’ve kept winning for the past 18 years. I’m a firm believer in the old adage that luck is where hard work meets opportunity, and I’ve definitely grafted these past 18 years!
What’s your best failure?
Putting up with a verbally abusive client for far too long. He put the fear of god into the Jammers and enough was enough, so I sacked him. It was the most cathartic experience of my career. From that moment on I vowed never to allow a client to treat any Jammer the way they did and I’ve held strong on this, having called out a couple of other disrespectful clients over the years and also declining a lucrative contract as the owner was nothing short of vile in the pitch meeting. Health before wealth.
What is the best investment you’ve ever made, either financial or time?
Investing in a gym membership and carving out the time to lift heavy stuff regularly. My mind switches off in the gym and I have an hour just focusing on what’s in front of me. It’s great for my body and mind.
Which podcast or book would you recommend others to read/listen to, and why?
Radical Candor by Kim Scott. It’s a great guide for anyone with people management responsibilities about giving clear and direct feedback and having open and structured conversations. And reminds us that feedback is designed to improve performance, not attack the ego.
What one piece of advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Have fun! Make time for being young and fabulous. Work will always be there and worrying about it 24/7 won’t make a jot of difference, so ditch the strategies and spreadsheets every now and then and go dancing!
Who or what has had the single biggest influence on your working life?
My dad and his work ethic. He’s a self employed photographer and at 69 he’s still booked up on commercial shoots. He refuses to retire! He loves his job, goes above and beyond and brings so much energy to every shoot. He’s an inspiration.
Tell us something about you that would surprise people.
I’m a lot more shy than people who have met me realise. Oh, and I’m (very slowly) learning Greek.
If there was one thing you could change about your career, what would it be and why?
Location. I could do with warmer weather. Jam Dubai, anyone?
What does success look like to you?
Being able to truly switch off outside of work, knowing that our extraordinary Jammers have got everything covered. So, I’ve definitely achieved success!
