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Kolja DANQUAH
Senior Creative | SERVICE PLAN
Born in 1977 I grew up in Wolfsburg, Germany with an automobile factory to the left and the iron curtain to the right. Later i received a driver’s license for tanks and tried to become a teacher in history and German studies. moved to berlin, worked as bartender and in various other jobs … and finally ended up in advertising. First lessons learned as intern at Plantage Berlin from 2008 to 2009 – gathering experience with clients like Mini, Sony Europe or Bertelsmann Group. I moved to Hamburg and joined Kolle Rebbe from 2009 to 2012 as Junior Copywriter and Copywriter – refining skills with Nike Football, Ritter Sport, Gauloises, Google/YouTube and the international lead account of Lufthansa. Following a brief stint at Leagas Delaney Hamburg – working on the international lead accounts of Bosch Automotive and Skoda – I joined Serviceplan International in Hamburg in 2014. Right now, I’m global creative director on the global BMW account – focusing on integrated campaigns, film development and production.
questionnaire
What was your very first job? What does it feel like to look back at it now?
First paid job was being the coach of an all-girl volleyball youth team – a valuable experience that taught me a lot about social dynamics and how to deal with the frustrations that come with slow progress.
Please describe, in your own words, what your current job is and what work it entails.
As creative director I feel like that infamous two-sided coin. While I love both perspectives individually, it is the balancing what this job is all about. This involves some politics, accepting unreasonable decision-making, but also being in the position to guide brands and to protect the integrity of ideas, to give guidance in times of confusion, support in times of doubt and generally maintaining a good spirit. Essentially being human, stupid and smart at the same time. And I think a good amount of honesty helps with that.
How did you discover that the creative world is right for you? Was there a time in your life that you credit to this discovery? Which train of events did bring you to where you are today?
There is not a certain event, but when joining the industry, I felt instantly supported in being genuinely who I am. While this might have been more a subconscious, good feel at first, but I strongly believe this is a great source of creativity. Later it became an integral part of my more intellectual work philosophy. And the reason I stayed.
In your constantly growing and expanding industry, how and where do you usually find inspiration to keep your work fresh, innovative and relevant?
It is about walking around with open eyes, as our world is a very interesting place.
If you had to pick one piece of work or project that you are most proud of, especially for the creative work and innovation it required rather than its recognition or industry success, what would it be?
Actually, this is not related to any specific project, but I am very flattered about the diverse, often brilliant individuals I have the opportunity to work with. If they trust me or like working with me, that makes me proud. And I once did a daughter.
