Net#work BBDO: best ad agency to work for

The succession plan implemented last year at Net#work BBDO is already bearing fruit: the agency has been named fourth best employer in SA in the Deloitte - Best Company to Work For 2005 awards. It also took top position in the advertising and media industry category for the fourth consecutive year.

MD Abdulla Miya says: "We encourage diversity and not just in terms of race, but also of character and attitude, which is vital to a successful advertising agency. When we employ we don't look for a 'Net#work' person.

"We hope there is no such thing. We want all sorts, a melting pot of personalities, who will break through barriers and stereotypes. We strive to offer an environment that encourages being experimental and adventurous. We tell our people - we would rather they fail spectacularly then rest on their laurels. But most of all - we want our people to believe they can do anything."

Executive creative director Julian Watt says: "Creativity rules. We provide a workplace where creative and talented people can grow and excel. But above all we encourage 'Net#workers' to have fun while they work and this translates into business benefit.

"There is a direct correlation between happy, energised people and good business performance. Our clients rely on breakthrough advertising and providing the best workplace is our guarantee of the most creative output."

Miya says: "Consistently being placed in the top ten among the likes of RMB, Microsoft SA and SA Breweries really blows our minds and who knows - one day this relatively small creative powerhouse of talent may even come first."