Meet the Team: Callum Blackwell, Senior Account Manager at IDS Media UK
In this week’s feature of our Meet the Team series, we’re delighted to introduce Callum Blackwell, Senior Account Manager at IDS Media UK. Having joined the team just nine months ago, Callum has quickly become an integral part of our sales team, connecting with clients and helping to deliver impactful campaigns that truly make a difference.
Seizing opportunities
Callum wasn’t actively looking for a new role, but when an agency approached him about the opportunity at IDS Media, he felt an instant connection with the company’s mission.
“I wasn’t looking for a new job, but when the opportunity at IDS Media came up, it felt like something that spoke to me,” Callum reflects. “I wanted to work with clients who were focused on supporting communities and individuals, and IDS Media has provided that in abundance.”
An Eye for Impactful Campaigns
Callum’s motivation to join the healthcare advertising space stems from personal experience. He recalls a moment when he was in a GP waiting room with his daughter, who has Type 1 diabetes, and saw a poster for a device that could help manage her condition. That experience made him realise the power of effective communication in healthcare and how campaigns like these can genuinely improve people’s lives.
“It’s not about pushing an agenda; it’s about making a real impact,” Callum says. “The integrity of the industry really resonates with me. I want to be part of a team that brings valuable solutions to people who need them most.”
Embracing the Challenges of Account Management
When he joined IDS Media, Callum was new to account management. He was accustomed to working in print publishing and event sales, where the focus was often on hitting targets and driving quick sales. However, he quickly adapted to the account management role, which is more client relationship-driven and focused on delivering value at every step of the campaign process.
“It’s very different from what I was used to,” Callum shares. “Account management is about building long-term relationships, understanding client needs, and delivering tailored campaigns that drive real results. It’s a much longer process, but that’s what makes it so rewarding.”
A Day in the Life of Callum
On a typical day, Callum stays in touch with his clients, connects with the various teams at IDS Media, and makes sure deadlines are met. His role also involves identifying new sectors to work with, attending events like the Primary Care event, and reaching out to potential clients. Callum is especially passionate about working in the med-tech sector, where he feels his skills and interests align perfectly.
“I love being able to work in an industry that resonates with me,” Callum explains. “We all get to focus on the sectors that we’re drawn to, and that makes the work more meaningful.”
Opportunities for Creativity and Innovation
One of the things Callum loves most about working at IDS Media is the opportunity to bring new ideas to the table. He’s passionate about creating innovative solutions, such as client packs that could signpost people to the support they need. Whether it’s creating resources for managing diabetes or raising awareness about alcohol consumption, Callum feels encouraged to think outside the box.
“We’re really supported in bringing ideas to life,” he says. “When I share something with the team, they don’t just listen; they actively join me in making it happen. It’s a fantastic environment for creative thinking.”
Proud Moments and Campaign Success
One of Callum’s proudest moments at IDS Media was seeing the success of the She-Med campaign, which generated an overwhelming response from clients in just three days. Being part of a team that brings these campaigns to life and seeing them have a tangible impact on people’s lives is incredibly rewarding for Callum.
“I feel so fortunate to be part of this process from start to finish,” Callum shares. “The results we achieve speak for themselves, and it’s always exciting to see the positive changes our campaigns bring to people’s lives.”
Outside of Work: A Love for Family, Sports, and Writing
Outside of his role at IDS Media, Callum is a devoted family man, with three dogs, two kids, and a wonderful partner. He’s an avid sports fan and enjoys playing football and rugby, as well as staying fit at the gym. Callum is also a writer and has authored several books. His passion for writing is something that’s had a positive impact on his family as well—his daughter was so inspired by his writing that she wrote her own book and even won an award for it.
“I’m incredibly proud of my family,” Callum says. “Writing has always been a passion of mine, and it’s been amazing to see my daughter follow in my footsteps.”
A Perfect Fit at IDS Media UK
Looking back on his time at IDS Media, Callum feels confident that he made the right choice. Despite the challenges of adapting to account management, he has thrived in the role and loves being part of a team that values integrity, creativity, and community-focused work.
“IDS Media is definitely the right fit for me,” Callum says. “I’ve worked hard to adapt to the role, and while I do miss some of the in-person interactions because I work remotely, I love being able to balance my career with my family life.”
We’re proud to have Callum as part of our team, and we look forward to the continued success and innovation he’ll bring to IDS Media in the years ahead.
