Jacob’s Employee Spotlight

Next under the spotlight is our PPC pro, Jacob, who’s a wizard when it comes to crafting the perfect campaign. But what’s on his bucket list outside the world of analytics? And what’s he listening to when optimizing ads? We asked him all that and more! Check out his answers below…

Name your top 3 Music Artists

1. Nas
2. Little Brother
3. Blu & Exile

What do you love about working in PPC?
I thrive on the intersection of data and PPC strategy. My approach is deeply analytical—I’ve built countless spreadsheets to track and analyse performance, providing crucial insights into past, present, and projected results. For me, the real thrill comes from synthesizing these data-driven discoveries with PPC best practices and the awesome creative work produced by the Halo team. This synergy allows us to craft truly innovative campaigns that deliver undeniable results. As the saying goes, “Data doesn’t lie,” and I use that truth to drive my strategic decisions and stay ahead of the curve.

Tell us something unusual about yourself?
I’m probably the biggest hip-hop head you’ll ever meet. ​​Hip-hop isn’t just a genre I listen to; it’s a world I’ve been immersed in for a decade now. Give me a dope sample, ​​chopped and looped to perfection, and I’m hooked, but what truly captivates me is the power of words. I analyse rhyme schemes, dissect punchlines, and marvel at the way emcees weave narratives and manipulate language. Wordplay, storytelling, poetic techniques – these are the elements that fuel my passion. My true obsession resides in the realm of backpack and underground hip-hop. That’s where the true artistry thrives, where lyrical prowess is paramount. It’s about the pen game, the skill, the raw talent. In that space, image and hype take a backseat, and the focus is solely on the emcee’s ability to craft intricate verses and deliver them with conviction. That’s the hip-hop that resonates with me, the hip-hop I live for.

What do you like to do to relax?
I like to relax by diving into a mix of stimulating activities. Music is a huge part of my downtime; I’m constantly exploring new albums and revisiting classics, always discovering fresh nuances even in well-worn favourites. Gaming is another passion – I love revisiting classic titles on my PS2 and PS3 (currently working my way through the God of War series). I also enjoy the mental challenge of online chess, and I’m quite proud of having reached the top 0.1% of online rapid players in the world. Beyond that, I also enjoy reading, whether it’s exploring the intricate world of “A Song of Ice and Fire” or expanding my knowledge of various subjects like geography, history, economics etc. Documentaries and informational YouTube videos also fuel my avid thirst for knowledge. Finally, I’m a big sports fan, especially rugby. I’m a proud supporter of Cymru and the Ospreys – nothing beats the excitement of a high-level, closely contested match!

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
If I could change just one thing about the world, it would be to dismantle the systems of animal exploitation that are so deeply entrenched in our society. I believe, fundamentally, that animals are here with us, not for us, and that every sentient being deserves to live free from exploitation. I deeply believe that a vegan world isn’t just a utopian dream; but rather a moral imperative. It’s a world where compassion and respect for all sentient beings are the guiding principles, a world where we recognise our responsibility to protect the vulnerable and create a more just and equitable existence for all. This is a future that I believe is both necessary and achievable, and one I actively work towards in my own life.

Give us three things on your bucket list…

1. Represent my country at an international level (most likely in chess).
2. Own a successful hip-hop media platform.
3. Visit the 7 ancient and natural wonders of the world.

Finish the sentence
I’d love to visit Japan because of the incredible contrasts it offers. I’m drawn to the breathtaking geography, from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Fuji to the picturesque Japanese Alps. I’d love to explore the ancient architecture, visiting historic temples and traditional wooden structures in Kyoto and Nara. Last but not least, I’m fascinated by the vibrant, modern cities, especially the electric atmosphere of Tokyo at night, with its bright lights and unique nightlife.

If I could go back in time, the first thing I’d do is travel back to the Mesozoic Era, the age of dinosaurs, because I’ve been fascinated by them ever since I was a kid and it would unreal to get a chance to explore a lost world that continues to ignite my imagination. To witness their immense size and diversity firsthand, to see them in their natural environment and try to understand what the world was truly like during their reign, would be an otherworldly experience.

My perfect weekend involves a blend of sports, live music, great food and some gaming. It would start with one of my sports teams pulling off a huge win in a crucial game. Then, I’d head to a live hip-hop show, soaking in the energy and appreciating the artistry, likely losing my voice in the process! The perfect weekend could never be complete without delicious food, and I’d indulge in my favorite: vegan Mexican – think flavorful tacos, burritos, and all that good stuff. Finally, I’d wind down with some classic gaming on my PS2 or PS3, revisiting some beloved titles and immersing myself into another world.

Quick Fire Round
Coffee or Tea? Tea – Herbal teas in particular, I’ve become a bit of an enthusiast recently!
Morning or Evening? Evening – To say I’m not a morning person would be an understatement.
Beach holiday or City break? Beach holiday – I’ve been fortunate to grow up on an incredible coastline and you just can’t beat it.
Sweet or Savoury? Sweet – Medjool dates are a healthy favourite, nature’s toffee!
Books or Movies? Books – In the words of Tyrion Lannister: “A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone”.