After just two and a half years, Zola Prendeville is a senior media planner buyer at MBM Wellington. She brings zest to her work and a genuine care for people.
The way Chris Bleackley, executive creative director at EightyOne, spoke about the power and possibilities of an idea made then-intern Zola Prendeville fall in love with the advertising industry.
“What fascinates me most about advertising is the power of ideas – how one idea can drive behaviour change – as well as the creative problem solving that comes with that,” says Prendeville.
Now a senior media planner buyer, Prendeville helps bring those ideas to life through media planning and strategy, client management and campaign implementation.
Of all the responsibilities, it’s the problem-solving that drives her. “Media is so vast and broad, we are given so many different tools to tackle a problem, so the challenge of figuring that out is what gets me excited,” she says.
“I’m constantly thinking, ‘What about this?’ It’ll keep you up at night.” But it’s worth it, she adds: “The reward comes from that, ‘Ah, we’ve got it!’” moment.
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Paying it forward
A problem-solver at heart, Prendeville is not only passionate about delivering smart solutions for clients, but also supporting emerging talent.
As the chair of First Five Rungs (FFR) Wellington, Prendeville finds joy in being part of a community that values connection over competition.
Having been given a strong support network early in her career, Prendeville is now paying it forward.
“I’m grateful to have been supported by the leaders and team members at MBM. MBM Wellington leaders such as Annabelle Wilkinson and Alexandra McElroy, have been a huge part of my growth thus far. Allowing me the opportunity to be supported while learning in the deep end.”
She says much of the work FFR Wellington does is about fostering that same kind of environment.
“The FFR Wellington board has created a space of connection for the up and coming talent in Wellington, highlighting the importance of strong relationships and connection,” she adds.
A project close to her heart
Outside of work, Prendeville is building a project that shares the same purpose: creating a space to support those in need.
“The podcast I’m working on at the moment is called ‘A love letter to my sister’. It’s an exploration into the topic
of eating disorders,” she explains.
“It comes from a personal place – my sister and some of my closest friends have struggled with this illness. I found myself not knowing why it was happening or how to understand it. So I started this journey to learn more – and I wanted to share that learning in a way that could help others too. That’s how the podcast came about.”
Whether it’s making young professionals feel seen or sharing stories close to her heart that comfort and connect, Prendeville helps important ideas be heard.
This story comes from NZ Marketing magazine issue 83, Jun-Aug 2025. Why not subscribe? Get four issues a year for just $50 (including delivery) if you autorenew.
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