On My Radar: Con Williamson

Con Williamson is chief creative officer at South Carolina and New York-based Erwin Penland leading the creative teams and playing a vital role in new business wins.

Having spent time in creative positions at the likes of Saatchi & Saatchi, Fallon, JWT, Euro RSCG and his own company Lodge212, he now works across Denny’s, Verizon, Frye Boots, LL Bean and L’eggs at EP.

Below he tells us what's on his creative radar and offers his wider thoughts on the industry.

What’s the best ad campaign you’ve seen recently?

There is so much good stuff out there right now, but I really love the Converse Made By You campaign. It’s just so well done – simple, smart, personal, non-selly and fresh. Every execution just tells a good story.

What website(s) do you use most regularly and why?

I hit The New York Times first thing every day… to give the appearance of being “informed” when speaking to other adults.

What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought and why?

I bought my wife an Apple Watch. I’m using her as a Guinea pig to decide if I want one.

Facebook, Instagram or Twitter?

Instagram, all day.

What’s your favourite app on your phone and why?

It’s still Instagram. It’s my visual tracking device, grandparent portal, and general time killer.

What’s your favourite TV show and why?

The only show I watch habitually is Game of Thrones, when it’s in season. Other than that, it’s Netflix documentaries about obscure stuff that puts most people to sleep.

What film do you think everyone should have seen?

The Goonies.

Where were you when inspiration last struck?

On my mountain bike, way back in the woods.

What’s the most significant change you’ve witnessed in the industry since you started working in it?

So much “stuff”. We’ve gotten so busy just making stuff, trying to over-deliver to prove that we can do everything that we’re spending less time getting to that one big thing. All it takes is one great idea executed well to get people talking, and a lot of times it’s still a great piece of film.

If there was one thing you could change about the advertising industry, what would it be?

For more people to start having fun again. This is the best job ever, it’s just changing… So have fun and be part of the change.

What or who has most influenced your career and why?

I’ve been influenced by lots of great bosses and partners, but things really took off when my wife showed up. Not to be cheesy, but she handles every part of our life so that I can just be great at my job. Without her, I’d just be an intern.

Tell us one thing about yourself that most people won’t know…

I have chickens.