Movers and Shakers Interview with Jonno Turner

Published by: Dillon Kivo

Tell us your name and a little about yourself.

I’m Jonno Turner, and I’m a communications and marketing leader working in global sport and sustainability.

What exactly does your company do?

At heart, I’m a storyteller. For the last decade or so, I’ve been working with some of the biggest brands, leagues, and athletes in global sport to create engaging and original digital campaigns and content. So from working with Twitter to deliver global content around the Rio Olympics in 2016 to launching BBC One’s Snapchat channel, and even getting the chance to work on an Olympic bid last year (Stockholm Åre 2026 – a proposal from Sweden to host the most sustainable Games in history), I’ve been able to gather some really unique experience at the top-level of world sport.

What were the biggest challenges you have faced, and how did you overcome them?

I currently live in London, but I didn’t grow up there – I’m actually from a town in the north of England. It’s really tough to break into the media industry when you’re not from a big city, and it meant that I had to work really hard for that first opportunity. It takes a lot of motivation and dedication, and I actually spent a couple of years writing blogs and articles for free whilst working other jobs in my home town before I finally got a break and was offered my first salaried gig in London.

What piece of advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your career?

Use social media to build your network and get experience. The great thing about the digital age is that it really means you have no excuses anymore – yes, you might not be paid to contribute at first, but there are plenty of opportunities for talented creatives to get a break in the industry. Then, it’s all about what you do once you’ve got your foot in the door.

Who are your biggest influences and people you admire, and why?

In the industry, I really admire bold marketers like Steve Jobs and Simon Sinek. Most people have heard of Jobs, and rightly so, but if you’re not aware of Sinek, you really should check out his books such as ‘Start With WHY’ and ‘Leaders Eat Last’. Even if you’re not creative, they will definitely advance your thinking. Aside from that, I take inspiration from all around me – I’m lucky to spend every day working in world-class sport amongst the best athletes in the world. I deal with Olympic champions, record-breakers, and pioneers on a daily basis, which is probably the most inspiring part of my job. I really believe that being around the elite, driven and talented people forces you to level up.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?

I’m supremely grateful to everyone I’ve worked with over the years – I’ve learned so much and been given so many chances, inspiration, and advice that it’s impossible to name individuals.

What do you see as your greatest success in life?

Professionally, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of some really successful teams over the past few years. We’ve racked up a lot of industry awards in a really, really competitive environment, which is really satisfying. On a personal level, 2019 was big for me: I was really proud to be named in the ’30 under 30′ in UK sport, and then selected by the Clio Awards as one of their top 25 creatives globally. Aside from work, being happy, family-orientated, and inspired are the most important things.