Leading up to this year’s Station Summit, we are taking a look at the speakers, sessions and panels that make the event memorable. Jeff Zellmer, VP, creative services at FOX 5 Atlanta, speaks about his upcoming session, his career and his advice to industry up-and-comers. Don’t miss Zellmer’s session at this year’s Summit: “Something for Nothing: 10 Low/No Cost Strategies for Breaking Through.”
Name: Jeff Zellmer
Title: VP, Creative Services, FOX 5 Atlanta
Could you summarize your session in 5 words? I might summarize it as “Recession-Proofing Your Creativity.”
What other speaker are you most interested in seeing at Station Summit this year? I’m very eager to hear from the other speakers in my session. Just like everyone else, I’m always looking for new ways to produce on a limited or zero budget.
How do you watch television content? In the living room, watching via TiVo with iPad within reach. I love TiVo. I honestly believe it is one of the most user-friendly DVRs. (You can even order pizza through it. Great technology.) Although, I’ve recently been found around the house watching a lot of HBO GO on my iPad or Xbox.
What do you think is the most important trait of a leader? Candidness. A great leader knows how to critique work in a constructive manner. I have learned the most from leaders who respectfully pick apart even my best projects.
What is your greatest career achievement so far? Achieving VP status in a top 10 market at the Fox affiliate that I watched while growing up. Talk about coming full circle.
What one piece of advice would you give to an up-and-comer in this industry? Learn everything there is to know. Then find the initiative to learn even more. (Seriously. The industry is changing so rapidly.)
How did you get your start in this industry? I was a frustrated news producer when a promotion position opened at the sister station housed in the same building where I was working. I honestly didn’t know much about promotions at the time, but I knew it involved more aspects of TV production than just writing. It was my wife who finally convinced me to apply. Next thing I knew, I was learning the basics from one of the most creative teams in local TV.
And for more information on Station Summit, June 25-28 in Las Vegas, check back at promaxbda.org. Speakers and sessions are being constantly updated.
Tags: