Meet the Team: Greg Young

Based in Detroit, Devise Director of Client Services Greg Young takes the lead on managing our client relationships. (It’s no coincidence that our client Learning Care is also in Detroit). Here, he shares insights on leadership, what makes a strong agency/client partnership, and his personal career journey.

Devise: What separates a good agency/client relationship from a great one?

Greg: A great relationship is forward-thinking and proactive. Once you have built a genuine connection with your client and understand how their business operates, you can start to provide support before they even request it. This skill does take time to develop, but once it clicks, your value as an agency partner grows tremendously.

What's something you wish more clients understood about working with an agency?

Let us in! Our value as your partner continues to grow based on the information we receive. Think of us as an extension of your own marketing team. The more you can include us in your internal meetings and planning sessions, the more value we can provide.

Successful leaders are those who listen and adapt to their client’s needs.

What have you learned about leadership from managing client relationships?

There isn’t one correct way to lead a successful client relationship. You need to learn and understand how your client likes to operate first, then adjust to work within their operating style. Successful leaders are those who listen and adapt to their client’s needs.

What's one decision that changed the trajectory of your career?

I raised my hand for an opportunity which required moving to a new state where I know absolutely no one. The role was a step up in the corporate ladder so that was a smart move career-wise, but it also forced me out of my comfort zone to go out and meet new people and form new friendships. It was not just a great career builder, but also great for personal development. Sometimes, it’s good to jump headfirst into the unknown, as long as you have a positive mindset for the experience.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?

All things outdoors, regardless of the season. Giving my daughter first experiences in life. Live concerts, big dinners, late-night conversations over cocktails, and trying to make you laugh.

What are you passionate about outside of advertising?

Music. I’m always listening to it. I love learning new instruments, introductions to new artists/acts, and expanding my never-ending playlists in life.

If you weren't working in advertising, what do you think you'd be doing?

I think something in the music industry, either as an artist, or in a role at a recording studio. I like being in highly creative environments and I think it would be amazing to witness hits being ideated and developed.

What's something on your bucket list?

I want to spend two weeks in Japan. I’ll spend the first week getting lost in Tokyo and the second riding the bullet trains and seeing the countryside.

Coffee or tea — and how do you take it?

Coffee, black. Iced or hot depending on the temperature outside.

What's your most controversial food opinion?

Cold can of Pepsi > cold can of Coke

What's the best advice you've ever received outside of work?

I received this advice when heading off to college, but I think it resonates in other areas of life, too: Sleep more than you study, study more than you party, party as much as you can.