Meet the London mentors
Kelsey O'Neal
Director – Client Leadership at WPP Media
With more than 16 years of media experience in New York and London. I believe in investing in people, working transparently, and asking thoughtful questions that challenge media briefs and uncover better solutions.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
After spending 5 years at WPP media in New York on accounts connected to global teams based in London, I wanted to challenge myself and work in a new, very different market. I was able to transfer to London and have been here now for 10 years. The UK is one of the best places to work in media and I find the market challenging and always changing.
Could you tell us a bit about your professional background?
I started my career at a small start up agency in Boston, focusing solely on media planning for New Balance. I was quickly recruited to WPP Media NY where I worked across a variety of accounts including Citizens Bank, Bayer Consumer Care, Shell, Century 21, & Sargento. I then moved over to the UK where I continued to work in planning across Bayer Consumer Care, Akzo Nobel, Stellantis, Muller, On the Market, Sky Sports, Mars Pet Care, & JPMorgan Chase
Your favourite food for thought
Books
Why I Choose You by Lisa Thal, Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams, You Are a Bad Ass by Jen Sincero
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
Media Intelligence by WPP Media, The Best One Yet, The Indicator from Planet Money
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
Integrity, Reliability, Trust
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
One of my biggest inspirations was my first manager at WPP Media UK, Huong Nguyen. As a fellow ex-pat she took the time to upskill me on the UK market, taught me to challenge and question client briefs, pushed me to get uncomfortable to better build skills. The way she led her team, built relationships with clients, and delivered strong work always motivated me.
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
As an expat my network at times isn’t the biggest and I feel like others may feel the same. I’m excited to meet people in the industry and help those who are entering or at the beginning of their careers.
What are the top skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
Great listener, Sees potential in others, Open-minded, Supportive, Provide honest advice and answers
Ready to apply?
The best time is right now. Take a chance – you never know where an Assisterhood mentor can take you.