As we celebrate five years of Dentsu Aegis Network, we hear from the people who have been here since day one about their personal journeys and what they’re looking forward to in the future.

We spoke to Michelle van der Zee, Project Director at Isobar Netherlands, about her experience over the last five years.

Tell us a little about your journey at Dentsu Aegis Network since its foundation in 2013…
I started as a project manager at de-construct (now Isobar NL) in 2010. It was propositioned as a small boutique agency situated on the canals in the city centre of Amsterdam. We were developing digital campaigns for our Dutch clients like Grolsch and Bijenkorf.

Since being part of Dentsu Aegis Network we’ve grown to the 60 employee full service agency we are today. We’re still developing digital campaigns for (international) clients, but we’ve broadened the scope with platforms, content creation, consultancy and even Products and Services as one of the new Isobar services in the Netherlands.

Having been a member of the network since Day 1, which have been the biggest milestones for you?
When I became Project Director I was able to help shape people’s careers as a digital producer, coaching them in their daily challenges and personal growth. Their development is my biggest milestone.

What are you most proud of?

My team.

What do you think are the key challenges & opportunities that lie ahead for our industry?
The key challenges? Getting the right people for the job. (Digital) Talent is very scarce and we are competing in a very challenging market.

Why is DAN best positioned to win over the next 5 years?
Because of the close connection through the network brands all over the globe.

What are you most excited about when it comes to the future of DAN?
Looking at Isobar NL, broadening our portfolio with Products and Services. With Kraftwerk on board and the partnerships with the DAN network like Magnetix, I’m confident we can deliver high quality services to our clients.