Tamara McCann
Head of Lead Generation, GCS at Google
Tamara McCann is Head of Lead Generation at Google, a role within the Google Customer Solutions division. In this role Tamara is responsible for leading a large team of high performing sales specialists who partner with a diverse range of local & global advertisers to deliver transformational business results and commercial outcomes. Tamara joined Google in 2014 and has held a number of commercial roles throughout her tenure.
Tamara has 24 years experience in media which has spanned advertising and sponsorship sales, digital content integration, marketing (B2B, B2C), communications plus various people leadership roles.
Tamara is motivated by leading, mentoring & inspiring others to reach their full potential. She is actively involved in various development programs within her organisation including the global #Iamremarkable program of which she held the AUNZ country lead position for 2 years and is a certified facilitator. In 2022 Tamara was appointed co-lead for the Parents and Caregivers chapter in AUNZ which aims to empower parents & carers to connect, grow and celebrate diversity.
When she is not spending time with her husband and two energetic sons (Jack & Beauden), Tamara loves to give back through community volunteering efforts and has been an active volunteer with Mummies Paying it Forward for the past 3 years.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
I’ve been leading teams for some time now but was first inspired in my early 20s from a number of strong female leaders I was lucky enough to work for. Working in a male dominated industry, through their mentorship & sponsorship I learned (and witnessed first hand) how they had to fight their way to the top and had steely determination to be recognised for the value they brought each day to their roles and through their leadership. They offered me the gift of their wisdom, life lessons and most importantly their belief in my ability that kept me going.
Could you tell us a bit about your professional background and where you are headed in your career right now?
I have 24 years experience in media which has spanned advertising and sponsorship sales, digital content integration, marketing (B2B, B2C), communications plus various people leadership roles.
My longest stints have been at News Corp (11 years all up in various roles & teams but always aligned to the sales division – the 11yrs was also not concurrent, I did a few stints, travelled abroad and then returned) and most recently Google – I hit the 10yr milestone next year. My current role is leading a team that works with advertisers aligned to the big 5 agencies – brands big & small. In the coming quarter I will take on a new challenge to lead a sales team focussed on Lead Generation businesses. Next step & milestone for me is a director position within the business which I’ve been working towards for the past few years. I am also looking to pursue board roles in the next 2yrs.
Your favourite food for thought
Books
- Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team – Simon Sinek (good book to get to the heart of your personal why)
- Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know – Adam Grant (just started reading)
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
- Powerful Stories – Tory Archibold
- Unleashing Brilliance – Janine Garner
- Future Women – the Leadership Series – Helen McCabe
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
- Authenticity
- Integrity
- Optimism
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My mother (sadly now passed) was and is still my biggest inspiration – she taught me the value of hard work, empathy and how to lead with both head & heart.
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
I am super passionate about helping others grow in their careers. I’ve had invaluable experience from sponsors & mentors througout my career and I get so much pleasure in being able to give back. Any way opportunity I can help another female grow and thrive I’m all for!
What are the top skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
- Looking for potential
- Passionate
- Supportive
Ready to apply?
The best time is right now. Take a chance – you never know where an Assisterhood mentor can take you.