Meet The Team: John Cochrane, Director of Research & Product Development.
John Cochrane, Director of Research & Product Development, is an integral part of the VMO business. Not only has John’s talent, initiative, efficiency, and hard work contributed to VMO’s growth and success, but his fun-loving nature and positive energy always puts a smile on the faces of those around him.
Since John started at VMO in 2018, he has driven innovative change, developments, and solutions within the business. He has led the launch of the DART360 Platform, having developed the concept into what it is today. His technical prowess, passion for OOH technology and ability to recognise opportunities has facilitated his success within the industry and his role.
Tell us about your journey in the industry and at VMO.
I’m going to show my age, but I started in the industry 21 years ago. I initially thought I would become an award-winning creative, but there was one problem - I am not creative. Thankfully, I was analytical, and with this skill basis I started my career within the media industry, moving from agency to agency.
I then made the shift into a sales strategy role for Yahoo!, and from there I landed a role at BSkyB in London, where I looked after their mobile offering and helped launch several products.
I started my journey with VMO just shy of 5 years ago. I really enjoy applying skills I have learnt throughout my career to VMO’s data offering and screen portfolio.
Describe your job in 3 words.
“Data creates Art”.
What’s the coolest thing you’re working on right now?
Working with Sabarish Chirakkal, our Director of Programmatic, on programmatic targeting, and how it should be used in conjunction with traditional Direct IO campaigns. It’s all about getting the right blend of brand awareness reach screens and always on path to purchase screens to drive scale, and then using programmatic targeting from either 3rd party or clients’ 1st party data to drive acquisition (sales, foot traffic, and website referral). Working on the best way to bring this to life and take this strategy out to market is super interesting.
What are you most passionate about?
I would have to say travel. I just think it is important to see the world and other cultures, especially when you are still young(ish).
What are the three things you love most about working at VMO?
The people I work with. I have worked at many companies, and it is rare to work with such a skilled and professional group that you can call your friends. It makes coming to work each day an enjoyable experience.
The daily challenges of my role are quite varied, and I find that quite rewarding.
The entertainment and events.
What’s your source of inspiration?
I love being outdoors. My source of inspiration is being out in nature, especially along the coastline. I find being near the ocean is a great place to either help clear your mind or provide a fresh perspective on something.
What do you do to rejuvenate and re-energise?
Because my day-to-day is mainly left-brain focused, when I am not at work I try to find things that help me activate the right side of my brain. In order to rejuvenate I am more likely to switch my brain off, go to the movies or play golf.
What are 5 words your friends would use to describe you?
Loyal, funny, caring, smart, and innovative.