Kerryanne Nelson
General Manager at The Spinoff.
Who or what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was really little I remember wanting to be a postie. I have no idea why. I think I really liked the idea of riding a bike around all day. As I got older the world of media and advertising became super interesting to me, but I was always so shy that I didn’t think I’d fit in there. Then I got a part time job at 16 at a record company and kept on going from there.
What is your professional background?
I started in music PR then did some arts PR work alongside the magnificent Michelle Lafferty who taught me what publicity was all about and how the media worked. Then after doing a Bachelor of Communication Studies and sending thousands of press releases I thought it would be nice to be on the other side so I edited a little music magazine called Groove Guide (RIP!). From there I went to MTV to run marketing and PR for New Zealand and then over to London. In London I worked in trade marketing for a company that designed and built stage sets for touring artists like Beyonce, Madonna and The Rolling Stones. On coming home I helped launch the Lightbox brand and marketing strategy for Spark and during my time there, helped facilitate The Spinoff launch. And now I’m here!
When do you feel the most creative or inspired?
I get a lot of energy from other people. When I’m with my two year old daughter, she absolutely brings creativity out. I also find music incredibly inspiring - it can change my mood very quickly.
When are you happiest?
When I’m with my husband and daughter. And my mum. Conversely when I have the house to myself and nothing to do and there’s Kohu Road Dark Chocolate ice cream in the freezer.
What’s the best stress relief advice you’ve ever been given?
This is a hard one as I’m still struggling with it. 2018 has been a year of regular yoga and meditation, more delegation, less coffee and alcohol and spending more time by myself. I also have an incredible team at work (shout out Duncan, Simon and Mark) and we’re all pretty aware of each other's workloads and capacities - and try to take on the load where we can. Sometimes thought, just being aware of my breathing and making sure I’m getting enough oxygen can make a big difference to my stress levels. And lots of lists.
What is your most treasured possession?
My engagement ring. It’s pretty lovely.
What is the most important thing life has taught you thus far?
That I can’t just keep going at 100mph anymore and not expect something to break. Being busy isn’t something to aspire to. You will be more effective and happier if you stop rushing through life and look after yourself. It doesn’t mean you’ll do a bad job, you’ll just enjoy it more.
Also, don’t take things so seriously. CHILL.
What is your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in your industry?
For me, my success has been based on relationships and being able to connect people together. I think it’s so important to hire great people and surround yourself with a team that you genuinely care about and want to spend time with. I’ve been lucky to have been part of our hiring decisions and think our people set us apart from other workplaces.
What is your big project or goal for 2018?
We’ve got two TV shows to make and need to keep the day to day business running and growing at the same time. So just getting through 2018 is enough at this point. Also I want to beat Duncan on the top office email senders list.
Who or what is inspiring you at the moment?
My daughter Lucy, who has so much wonder and joy for the world. My husband Brody who inspires me everyday with his determination, creativity and kindness.
What do you continually ask yourself?
Can I go to bed now?
Who do you collaborate with best?
People that listen well, care about what they do, and want to enjoy the process.
Who has challenged you to be better than you once were?
Having my daughter has made me far less selfish and self absorbed, and also feel a different kind of love, of which I am very grateful for. My best friend Sarah also challenges me when I need to be - but always with kindness and love.
How does courage manifest in your work?
I personally think our writers are some of the bravest people I’ve met. Sharing personal stories, opinions and thoughts is very brave. I don’t think I’m particularly brave - but I feel proud to stand behind our writing team and the bravery that is shared our site.
When has mentorship played a role in your life?
It’s never been very formal for me but there have been a number of women (and a couple of men) who have given me time and believed in me over the years. They’ve taught me that even though there is still so much to learn, I can speak up and trust myself along the way.