#CareerFocus with Kate Kitz COO at GroupM SA

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1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

Outside of the world of media, I’m lucky to have a wonderful family that keeps me grounded. My husband and two kids are my everything, and we cherish our time together. When I’m not chasing after them, you can generally find me on the golf course or the paddle court. And to unwind, I love getting lost in a good book or exploring my creative side with crafts.

2. What work do you do?

I’ve recently been promoted from CEO of Mindshare to COO for GroupM South Africa – GroupM is the world’s leading media investment company and a part of WPP. We manage over $60 billion in advertising revenue for some of the biggest brands globally.

3. How long have you been in the industry?

    I’ve been in the industry for more than 20 years and worked across most disciplines in our industry, starting at the bottom and working my way up!

    4. Has your work always been your passion? Tell us why.

      I’ve always been ambitious and driven to succeed, so in a way, that drive itself is a passion. I can honestly say that I love what I do now and find it incredibly fulfilling. I thrive on a challenge, and this industry certainly provides plenty of those, constantly evolving and pushing us to think creatively. Plus, I’m fortunate to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the business – the people in this industry are truly inspiring and make the work even more rewarding.”

      5. Being a woman in the industry – what does it take?

        It takes resilience. This industry is a rollercoaster, and you have to manage the ups and downs with grit, grace, and determination. You need to be consistent and firm in your convictions, while also being willing to listen and learn from others. And perhaps most importantly, you need a genuine passion for this industry and the amazing people who make it tick. It’s that passion that will fuel you through the long hours and tough challenges. Finally, you have to accept that you can’t do it all. Building a strong team and knowing when to delegate is crucial for success.

        6. What has been the most difficult challenge of your career?

          I think one of the most difficult challenges I’ve faced in my career, and it’s something I know many women in this industry can relate to, is simply being taken seriously and fighting to be fairly rewarded for the value I bring. It can be a constant battle to have your voice heard and your contributions recognized on par with your male counterparts. But it’s a challenge I meet head-on with unwavering confidence in my abilities and the value I deliver.

          7. What advice do you have for other women in your industry?

            What advice do I have for other women in this industry? Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

            • Believe in yourself, fiercely. You have something unique to offer, so own your skills and expertise. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your ideas.
            • Find your tribe. Surround yourself with supportive and inspiring women (and men!) who lift you and champion your success. Mentorship is invaluable, both giving and receiving.
            • Know your worth and don’t be afraid to ask for it. Don’t undervalue your contributions. Negotiate fair compensation and opportunities.
            • Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. The media industry is constantly evolving, so view challenges as a chance to learn and adapt.
            • Celebrate your successes, big and small. It’s important to acknowledge your accomplishments and enjoy the journey.

            This industry needs more strong, talented women. Go out there and make your mark!

            8. Who inspires you in your industry?

              That’s an easy one! I’m fortunate to be surrounded by incredible people in this industry who inspire me daily. From the brilliant creatives who constantly push boundaries to the data whizzes who uncover game-changing insights, to the tenacious leaders who pave the way for others – I’m constantly learning and being motivated by those around me. It’s truly the collective energy and brilliance of the people that make this industry so inspiring.

              9. What’s the best advice / key learnings have you received from your industry peers?

                Some of the best advice I’ve received from mentors and peers in this industry boils down to two key principles: presence and thoughtful action.

                1. The first, “be present,” is a constant reminder to focus on the task at hand or the person I’m with. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in multitasking and distractions. But truly being present, listening actively, and giving my full attention to the moment makes me a more effective leader and colleague.
                2. The second, “think first, act second,” has been invaluable in high-pressure situations. It’s a reminder to take a breath, assess the situation, and consider the potential consequences before reacting. It’s about avoiding rash decisions driven by panic and instead, responding with strategic thoughtfulness. This advice has helped me navigate challenges with more grace and make better decisions overall.
                10. What is your leadership style?

                  I believe in leading by example. I set high standards for myself and my team, and I’m always willing to roll up my sleeves and work alongside them to achieve our goals. I also place a strong emphasis on mentorship. I want to see those around me grow and succeed, so I invest time in providing guidance, support, and opportunities for development. Finally, I believe in creating a structured and supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to do their best work. Clear communication, defined roles, and a collaborative spirit are essential to my leadership approach.

                  11. Have you experienced failure in your career, if so, what lessons did you learn from that?

                  Of course, I’ve experienced setbacks in my career – everyone does! Failure is just a part of the journey. I’ve had pitches that fell flat, campaigns that didn’t resonate as expected, and moments where I doubted my judgment. But looking back, those experiences, while tough at the time, were invaluable learning opportunities. My key learning has been that it’s okay to ask for help and that collaboration often leads to the best solutions. Most importantly, I learned to view setbacks not as defeats, but as stepping stones on the path to success. They build resilience and ultimately make you better at what you do.

                  12. What are your plans for the future?

                  When it comes to the future, I always have big ambitions, I’m always striving for growth and impact. But more importantly, when I look ahead, I focus on how I want to feel rather than just a specific position, title, or role. I want to feel challenged, engaged, and passionate about my work. I want to continue to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. And ultimately, I want to feel like I’m making a meaningful contribution to this industry and the people around me. That, to me, is the recipe for a truly thriving future.

                  Short bio

                  A strategic thinker with a proven track record of operational excellence, Kate is passionate about leveraging data and technology to streamline processes, unlock new opportunities, and maximize value for clients. Her collaborative leadership style empowers teams to challenge conventions, embrace innovation, and deliver exceptional results. Kate’s commitment to talent development ensures GroupM remains a magnet for the industry’s brightest minds, fostering a culture of excellence that translates into tangible success for clients.

                  To reach out, please visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-kitz-7043b888/