Alan Galbraith
Alan Galbraith has been a successful music producer, radio and TV presenter, advertising copywriter, feature writer, agency partner and creative director. He currently works as a freelance creative consultant, moving easily from the role of advisor and strategist to creating powerful, insightful communications.
With more than thirty years experience in the communications, entertainment and media industries, Alan is known as a ‘big picture’ person with an exceptional ability to get quickly to the nub of any issue. He believes strongly in the power of the brand and is committed to the principle of “aiming for the heart and letting the head follow”.
Alan’s past roles and his enthusiasm for the business of communicating have led to a unique combination of creative skills encompassing words, music, art direction, multi-media and film. In addition to his advertising work he also writes and composes music and is recognised as a talented musician and performer.
Perhaps one of Alan’s strongest points is his ability to work comfortably in both creative and management roles, directing large or small projects, mentoring and guiding, and being a catalyst for the development of good ideas.
With the benefit of wisdom gained from his considerable experience, Alan has developed a special understanding of the creative process, a passion for excellence, and a natural empathy for business.
Wide Experience
- Perhaps the most important thing I have to offer is my experience. I have worked in advertising, public relations, film production, music and audio production, graphic design and journalism; in big agencies and small; and direct with my own clients. I have a good grasp of want’s possible and how to do it quickly and efficiently.
A Big Picture Person
- Most communications programmes need to work on a number of levels for different audiences with varying agendas. If you really want to make a difference, it pays to think of every possibility.
Brand Champion
- I am passionate about well-developed brands, however, there is much more to a brand than a list of agreed values, beautifully designed logos and brand collateral. There is also the brand experience, living up to the promise and the will to make it meaningful.
Talented Communicator
- I like to think that writing is my key strength, but I like to write ‘visually’ and prefer a less formal, conversational style. I like talking to people, am comfortable addressing large groups, and have always enjoyed the process of presenting my work as much as actually doing it.
Creative All Rounder
- I believe the business of communicating requires you to be able to think in any medium, which means you need to have some understanding of how it works. This has been invaluable to me in my freelance career, and is good for my clients as they can expect me to consider every possibility.
Business Savvy
- I have a good understanding of the principles of business and marketing and try to use my creativity to enhance my clients’ business.
EMI Records NZ Ltd 1970 – 1972, 1973 – 1976
Music Producer
Producer of local music artists, film soundtracks and advertising music
EMI Records UK 1972-1973
Artist & Repertoire Executive
Management of EMI recording artists. talent acquistion, repertoire selection, PR work
CBS Records Australia 1976 – 1978
Executive Producer
Management of CBS recording artists, music production, talent acquisition
Freelance Producer 1978 – 1980
Music production, TV and film soundtracks, Radio DJ
Blue Skys Advertising & PR 1980 – 1983
Copy Writer/TV Producer
Copy and concepts for advertising and PR, TV and radio production, soundtrack composition
Atelier Advertising Ltd 1983 – 1986
Copy Writer/Creative Director
Copy and concepts for advertising , TV and radio production, soundtrack composition, management of creative department, agency partner and director
Freelance Creative Consultant 1987 – present
Advertising, music production, writer and art director
Work for various agencies in Auckland and Wellington. Own clients have included Mitsubushi Motors, Smith & Nephew, Infinity Solutions, Topliss Brothers, United Video, King Salmon Company, Nugget Point Resort, Bell McCawBampfylde, Auckland Rugby Union and many others. Currently contracted to Promotus Advertising as freelance creative director for Suzuki New ZealandLtd.
Member Profile
Alan Galbraithn/a
