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When Chanelle Martin starts a new job at Samba TV, she hits the ground running — and even landed a promotion in less than a year.
“Samba TV is a great place to work because everyone has the opportunity to make a difference,” says Martin, director of program consulting at the ad technology company. “I also had a lot of support from my manager, who gave me the autonomy to build things that help me grow and succeed.”
Here, Martin shares what drew her to working in the ad tech industry, her experience overcoming imposter syndrome, and why living abroad has so dramatically affected her life.
Tell us about your career journey, and what inspired you to pursue a career in the advertising technology industry.
I studied marketing and advertising in college and had great professors who are still working in this field at various agencies. This allowed me to learn from people who had relevant experience in the real world. I was also fortunate enough to do several internships in the field while I was in college. After graduation, I worked as a media planner/buyer at a small agency, where I gained experience across all types of media advertising—print, digital out-of-home (OOH), radio, TV, and social—and fell in love with programming. I went on to get my master’s degree in London. Then I worked as an auto trader and trading manager at an agency, and later at a Demand Side Platform (DSP) before joining Samba TV.
What drew you to work at Samba TV?
I was approached by a Samba TV recruiter several times when I was working in other agencies. I was always very fascinated by the company, and their culture seemed amazing. It was one of the first places I looked when I was open to a new opportunity.
What are the keys to your success in the company?
Since joining Samba TV, I have made a point of taking initiative, proactively identifying and solving problems as well as looking for new challenges. All of this helped me make an impact and progress quickly.
What is your responsibility in your role?
I manage the US-based software advisory team, which provides strategic recommendations to our clients and supports them through activations. My team includes eight consultants in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York, and I oversee how they interact with external clients and internal teams and find ways to support them in their daily tasks. For example, you’ve created new processes to streamline their efforts and provide better service both internally and externally. I also provide consultants with training and mentorship to help them develop their skills and advance their careers.
What is the last project you are most proud of and how has it affected your work?
I recently created a best practice that my team can share with our customers as a tool to support them during activation and troubleshooting. It has had a huge impact on the business as it has streamlined how we keep our customers informed and educated, saving all our time.
What do you like most about working in the advertising technology industry?
The field of advertising technology is fast paced and constantly evolving. I love how dynamic the industry is, and I find it motivating to keep up with the changes, updates, and improvements in the space. Over the past 10 years of working in this field, I’ve witnessed a lot of innovation, and I’m excited to see how the industry continues to evolve.
What challenges did you face as a woman in tech, and how did you overcome them?
Throughout my career, I’ve had instances of imposter syndrome and moments when I felt I didn’t deserve to be in certain places where women—especially women of color—were underrepresented, particularly in leadership positions. To get around this, I remind myself of my accomplishments and that I deserve to be in the room. In addition, I always push myself to make an impact in every role I have to be that representation to other women. Finally, I try to stay in touch with my sponsors, mentors, mentors, and support women as well.
What is your advice for those who want to pursue a career path similar to yours?
If you’re still in college, try to do as many practice workouts as possible if you have the ability to do so.
If you’ve graduated and are already in the workforce, know that it’s never too late to learn new things, so look for opportunities to learn about different areas you might be interested in. You can do this by scheduling time with coworkers you’d like to know more from or by reaching out to potential mentors inside and outside your organization.
Finally, start building your network as early as possible. This industry is young and a strong support network can provide access to career opportunities, career guidance, and even job referrals.
You’ve lived in many different cities during your career – including your time in London. How has living abroad affected you?
Living abroad in London was very cool: I got to travel a lot, experience a different work culture, and meet people who became friends for life. I think I experienced my greatest personal growth while living there.
What are you currently reading, watching or listening to?
I am currently reading Type by Octavia E. Butler. I also immersed myself in the first half of the second season ofLincoln attorney On Netflix and I’m waiting for the sequel to be released!