In June, I will turn 50. I started my own design/ad/whatever-you-want-to-call-it firm over 25 years ago. Half of your life is a long time to do something. But, as long as it is fun, new and rewarding, why stop? Honestly, I never thought I would want to do anything else but run Open Skye. From branding start up software companies, to building e-commerce websites, from TV, radio and print advertising to social media – I was constantly learning new ways to spread ideas. It was a blast. I worked with some good clients (and a handful of great ones.) I hired and helped develop some people who have gone on to do bigger and better things. Overall the rewards and the positive experiences have far outweighed the disappointments of the past few years.
All this being said, this past fall I began to explore my career options. I have always considered myself somewhat of a salmon. While many people work at a large agencies for years and dream of starting their own business, I began swimming the other way. I cut my overhead, and began selling myself more as a freelance creative director than a full service firm. The opportunities that Open Skye had available at that time were frankly quite boring. We “had to” take work that was not challenging just to pay the bills. I felt unmotivated and underappreciated. Freelancing was an opportunity to explore my options, including the chance to work as part of a larger group elsewhere. I landed a freelance assignment at Digitas in late November. All of my prejudices regarding what life at a “big agency” would be like quickly flew out the window. The environment here is open, collaborative and energetic. Everyone is on the same page, and committed to doing the best possible work. The culture is very loose and encourages teamwork based on individual strengths coming together for the best results. As you can guess, I love it at Digitas. I’ve accepted a full time position as an associate creative director.
You can’t work in the same place for 25 years and not build a vast and talented network. Open Skye is still available on a project basis. We remain a core group of creative professionals and a cast of best-of-breed strategic partners. Senior-level talent, without a lot of overhead. Obviously that talent will not always include me, but I will remain as engaged as possible, whether that means managing your project, consulting, being hands on, or handing it off to trusted associates.
At my core, I have always thrived on new opportunities, and mutually beneficial partnerships. I was presented with an opportunity I could not pass up. Thanks for everything! Kevin
