The last in a series of short interviews introducing some inspiring digital design ladies who dared to leap into the unknown and made the Netherlands their home. All the way from New Zealand, meet Jena Fenwick. Executive producer at digital experience design studio Resn. From a degree in Communications at Auckland University of Technology to an internship in Hong Kong – with a two-year stopover in London, Jena now lives and works in Amsterdam.
On her way to the Netherlands
It was always clear to Jena that she wanted to broaden her horizon – leap into that unknown. Hong Kong was her first stop. However, after completing her six-month internship, she wanted more, and wasn’t ready to return to New Zealand yet. Next stop: London. This city appealed to her because of its vibrancy and diversity. With regards to work, Jena was especially interested in the creative process within an agency, how to organise this process. Her ideal job: being a producer. Jena worked for two years in experiential marketing until her visa ran out. Time to move on, broaden that horizon, and map out the next path.
So, why the Netherlands?
Jena’s requirements: a city with a similar vibrancy to London, but also a growing number of digital opportunities. Jena was aware that this market was growing rapidly. No longer was digital just an after-thought. The roles were reversing. Digital was taking the lead.
‘The Netherlands is not only a creative hub for global brands and agencies in Europe, it is also at the forefront of digital innovation.’
So, Amsterdam it was! And so far, Jena hasn’t been disappointed. Having lived here for almost eight years, she – like the other three interviewees – loves the work-life balance.
‘Here in the Netherlands, they value the importance of enjoying life, but also the need to work hard. In that sense, the culture is accommodating to the ebbs and flows of our industry: working long hours to meet a deadline, but able to adopt a slower pace after having had one of those ridiculously busy weeks.’
From digital producer to executive producer
Jena’s first job as a producer in digital was at boutique digital production studio Cartelle. With a team of only five, it gave Jena the exposure she needed. It was her digital learning ground - being exposed to every part of the digital production process.
In 2015 Jena started at Resn, also as a producer. She is now an executive producer.
‘As a producer your focus is on managing the deliverables of a project, hitting deadlines, staying within budget, liaising between client, agency and partners. As executive producer, you’re overseeing these projects and processes - focusing on best practices, new business and pitches. Together with the technical and creative directors you strategise and define the approach and response to a brief that is most effective for the client, whilst also ensuring having happy teams within the studio.’
New Zealand. The Netherlands. What makes the difference?
‘I can actually draw parallels between the two countries. Both are open-minded, have a healthy work-life balance, and, most importantly, a strong sense of community. This also translates to work. Agencies share, praise and critique work amongst their peers in the industry - sparking healthy competition, but also inspiration.’
Inspired by...
...Sea Shepherd. An international non-profit marine conservation organisation. Jena first worked with Sea Shepherd when developing their new website. She’s inspired by their passion, drive and what they represent.
‘They are protectors of the sea, engaging in direct action campaigns to defend wildlife, and conserve and protect the world’s oceans from illegal exploitation and environmental destruction - from Japanese whalers to illegal fishing, and much more. Have a look at the AR-experience we recently developed for them: www.belowthesurface.resn.co.nz.’