Creatives don’t always get schooled in the critical skills needed as they move up the ladder. AWARD Crash, designed for mid-to-senior creatives (roughly 3-7 years in) moving up the career ladder, Crash sharpens the critical skills rarely taught formally, from presenting ideas and navigating feedback, to managing internal dynamics and client relationships. The skills between developing great ideas and making sure they land.

“Creatives have been promoted quickly over recent years, but the support systems around them haven’t always kept pace,” stated Mandie van der Merwe, AWARD chair & CCO of Saatchi & Saatchi. “They’ve got the hard skills, yet many haven’t developed the tools to thrive in leadership roles. That can lead to internal friction, work that doesn’t land, and a loss of confidence. AWARD Crash was built to bridge that gap.”

The course is short and practical. Each session is built around an actual creative project, zooming in on critical moments where things often go sideways – feedback, handovers, presentations, tough conversations. It combines five online sessions with a day and a half of immersive, small-group workshops, led by Mandie van der Merwe; Julian Schreiber, partner & CCO Special Group Australia; Sarah McGregor, national executive creative director, AKQA Group; and Lea Walker, founder of Mrs Walker.

“The reality is, today’s creatives aren’t just idea generators, they’re running a reputation-driven business within the business,” stated Schreiber. “Getting buy-in, collaborating effectively, understanding their role, and staying resilient under pressure are essential skills and this program has been designed to help strengthen those muscles.”

Bookings are now open for courses in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, running throughout September and October. 

For details and bookings, visit the course webpage. Places are limited.