The Mentors Project: Chris Jarratt

MENTEE
Amanda Smith, senior art director at Revel Advertising

OBJECTIVE
Amanda started at Revel as an intern, but I quickly saw immense potential for her to become a leader. The objective has been to provide guidance and opportunities for her to grow as a creative leader and as a potential partner at the agency.

HOW
We meet almost daily to discuss any challenges she may be facing as she is now the head of our creative department. We take the time to discuss the direction of the company and how we want to continue to grow Revel from all aspects.

RESULTS
Amanda has gone from intern to designer to art director to senior art director and head of the creative department. She takes on every challenge we throw at her with a true passion for our clients and the company. She brings to the table a special ability to think like a business owner at a very young age.

CHALLENGES
Getting a young professional to put aside age and experience and know it’s the drive and talent in you that makes you unique and should give you confidence hasn’t always been easy, from a mentor perspective. I understand it comes from a place of deep responsibility that she takes as the one who signs off on every project that goes out the door, so I try not to push this “confidence thing” too much. But I’d be lying if I didn’t find it challenging when I see her worry about things that are just fine.