Me and my Grand Prix: Past winners reflect

Samsonite ‘Heaven & Hell’
Press Grand Prix 2011
Lu Xiao Xi Group head
JWT Shanghai

I was recently promoted from senior art director to group head, and winning this award played a big part in that promotion and pay rise. I’m also thrilled that this award contributed to the momentum of the agency. 

By bringing home China’s first-ever Grand Prix, this award helped put China on the global creative map – and helped cement JWT Shanghai’s position as an industry leader in China. I’m looking forward to attending Cannes this year. I’m so excited not only because I’ve never been to Cannes, but I want to see and learn even more from the seminars and, hopefully, I’ll get to receive more Lions this year and the following years to come.

Home Plus ‘Subway virtual store’
Media Grand Prix 2011
Misu Yi Copywriter
Youbin Bang, Yeonjoo Lee, Youna Chung Art directors
Cheil Worldwide

After winning the Cannes Grand Prix, we found it easier to persuade both colleagues and clients. 

The client became even more confident in what Cheil is doing. Home Plus increased the number of virtual stores, so it affected the client’s sales (in a positive way, of course).

Many people have recognised Cheil’s creativity after winning the Grand Prix. So Cheil Worldwide has found it easier to hire good talent around the world. We have 49 offices around 27 countries, so winning the Grand Prix brings good momentum that attracts global talent. 

We also received a bonus – the amount is confidential, but it was just enough to make us happy!

Tourism Queensland ‘Best job in the world’
PR and Direct Grands Prix 2009
Cristian Staal, Ralph Barnett Associate creative directors
SapientNitro Brisbane

We got job offers from all over the world; however, three years on, Cristian and I have remained firmly in Brisbane. Merrin (McCormick, another member of the winning team) transferred overseas.

Having one of our key clients from Tourism Queensland with us in Cannes to celebrate was a fantastic experience. It meant the gravity of what we had achieved together really hit home, which has led to a strong and trusting relationship.

It instantly affected the momentum of SapientNitro globally, with new business knocking at our door as existing clients explored new opportunities with us. Every client started asking for the next “best job”.

This article is excerpted from an article originally published in Campaign.