Singapore-based ★ Meet Ted Lim, DAN/Asia CCO, as featured in "Marketing Magazine"

Ted Lim, Chief Creative Officer (CCO) for Dentsu Inc. Aegis Network (DAN) Asia, was interviewed by Marketing Magazine, an Asian advertising industry publication.

He spent 20 years at a foreign-owned advertising agency in Malaysia, bringing numerous international advertising awards to the company, including D&AD, Cannes Lions, Clio Awards, One Show, AdFest, and Spikes. He joined the then Dentsu Inc. Network Asia as CCO in April 2013 and now oversees DAN's creative direction across Asia.

 

The catalyst for entering the advertising industry 'Ogilvy on Advertising'

— Why advertising?

It all started when I encountered the book 'Ogilvy on Advertising' during my university days. It caught my eye in a bookstore, and I read it cover to cover right there on the spot.

― What's something people say that bothers you?

"You look like an accountant" (laughs)

― What's the biggest blunder you've made?

I set a proposal on fire. That was a huge blunder. I frantically stomped it out, but ended up burning holes in the carpet and my wallet.

― What's your proudest career achievement?

Winning 14 competitive pitches in my first 12 months at Dentsu Inc. Network Asia!

― What's the weirdest thing you've struggled with at work?

People often imagine creatives as eccentric types with tattoos and multiple piercings, right? I seriously agonized over this. I wondered if I wasn't adventurous enough (laughs).

― What do you do when you feel like you need more stimulation?

I go out seeking stimulation. Inspiration is everywhere.

Bob Scarpelli, whom Lim regards as his mentor

― Who is your respected mentor?

Bob Scarpelli, former Chairman and CCO of DDB Worldwide. He's the one who proves you don't have to be a "good-for-nothing" to become great.

― What's the difference between an average creator and an excellent one?

Average creators think they're exceptional, while exceptional creators think they're average.

― What frustrates you about being a creator?

That what you consider your best today won't be your best tomorrow.

― How do you relax on weekends?

Reading, watching movies. Laughing a lot, crying a lot.

Source: Marketing Magazine "Creative Catch-Up"
http://bit.ly/1j3D09z

Advertising legend Sir John Hegarty of BBH (second from right) and