Nnadozie Okere decided to toe the path of communications after being influenced by a family member. Years later, he’s the Brand Manager at Slice Media where he initiates and implements strategies and campaigns. He’s passionate about building brands and has embraced the challenges that come with doing so. In his interview with us, he shares his career highlights and some tips for upcoming professionals.
How did you begin your career journey in Communications?
My career in Communications began unexpectedly. I initially had different plans, but after my National Youth Service, I spent some time with an uncle who inspired me.
He was the Head of Communications at a government agency and I found his work fascinating. His ability to shape narratives and influence perceptions captivated me. His office was filled with books, reports, and media clippings, and I would spend hours absorbing information and asking questions. It was in that environment that I discovered my passion for Communications.
I eventually joined Caritas Communications, where I honed my skills in Media Relations and Monitoring, Communication Management, Campaign Management & Monitoring, Event Planning, and Crisis Communications. My journey has been rewarding, involving continuous learning, adapting to changing media landscapes and keeping up with trends in Digital Communication. Each project brings new challenges and opportunities, helping me grow as both a communicator and a strategist.
What is a typical day like for you as the Brand Manager at Slice Media?
I usually have a mix of strategy and execution in my typical day. It begins with reviewing ongoing campaigns and projects to ensure everything is on track and aligned with our clients’ objectives.
I collaborate with different teams, from the Creative team to the Marketing and Sales teams, to analyse campaign performance and ensure our messaging aligns with our target audience.
Can you share some highlights that have made your career more memorable?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to experience many memorable moments and highlights. One significant highlight was leading the rebranding for a client, where I was able to shape the brand’s identity from scratch. It was both daunting and exciting to align the brand’s new direction with its established reputation; and seeing the positive reaction from both employees and clients was gratifying.
Another noteworthy highlight was serving as the PR lead for the arrival and sailaway of the Egina Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the world’s largest vessel of this kind by capacity.
The arrival of the Egina FPSO marked a major milestone for the Nigerian oil and gas industry. This was a proud moment for me, not only for witnessing history but also for being at the forefront of driving awareness for this significant event.
How do you stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in Communications?
I consistently engage with a variety of industry resources that provide insights into emerging trends and case studies from top brands. I also make it a point to participate in webinars and workshops whenever possible.
This enables me to gain valuable knowledge and network with colleagues and peers in the industry, helping me understand different perspectives and approaches. I firmly believe in continuous learning, so I frequently take courses to stay ahead in this fast-evolving field.
What do you love the most about working in Communications?
I absolutely love being able to shape and tell a brand’s story. It is fulfilling to craft messages and strategies that really resonate with people and influence their perceptions. I also enjoy working closely with different teams, from creatives to strategists to sales, this allows me to bring diverse perspectives together to build a strong brand identity.
Ultimately, seeing the tangible impact of my work through increased brand awareness, customer loyalty, or successful campaigns gives me a real sense of fulfilment.
What advice would you give to upcoming Communications professionals?
Embrace continuous learning and stay curious. The Communications field is always evolving with new platforms, tools, and trends emerging.
Networking is crucial – connect with industry professionals, seek mentors, and attend industry events. These connections can provide valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities.
