2023 brought many new faces to our collaboration with Google. Ryan took over in the Benelux, we met Kala from EMEA, and we got to know Eric and Dorra from Cloud Space. And, as always, lots of FSRs.

From Sovereignty to generative AI, and from Apigee to Security, we doubled down on the content this year. Ask Arman anything on SAP - he'll probably remember from the factsheets.

With a dedicated Google designer on the team, we have taken important steps this year to level up conceptualization efforts. For example, the SAP/AI concept and video were extremely well received.

2023 brought projects from a wide variety of regions: we worked with the Benelux, Nordics, KSA, EMEA, and DACH. 20+ different POs were shared in total, with a value of about €728,000.

For me, it wasn't about any single project but rather the incredible synergy and impact achieved through our collaborative efforts at the Google team. Witnessing the big impact a really small group of people can achieve has been a defining highlight of the year, which I'm really proud of. 

My highlight revolves around our team's exceptional ability to showcase creative ideas that even earn the usually strict approval of Google Cloud's team. It's a testament to our innovative approach—going beyond conventional boundaries while respecting the brand guidelines. Our success lies in not just the brilliance of our ideas but in our adaptability, finding ways to express creativity within the established framework.

My highlight is definitely how we're building trust and word of mouth within Google. Seeing how Kala and Eric/Dorra came to us - not because they knew us but because they saw or heard positive experiences - shows how we've built relationships and delivered good results, leading to happy clients that spread the word. From a project perspective, some of my highlights include the BLX Summit, large-scale ABM in DACH, and the Build with Google project for EMEA. And the 5-year celebration hub was definitely a highlight too.

Working alongside project managers, designers, techies, and analysts has taught me a lot about communication styles. It's fascinating how we all have our preferences—some love diving into detailed bullet points, while others prefer broader ideas they can later explore. Learning these differences has allowed me to understanding how to speak to each person in a way that resonates best with them. This flexibility has really strengthened our teamwork, making sure everyone gets the info they need in a way that works best for them.

I think that would be resilience and the value of persevering paying off, for example, in the form of the Cloud Space project. 

This year I took part in my first Google project from start to finish, which was my first complete project at ftrprf. I learned a lot about how ftrprf operates, as well as the intricacies of working with analysts; how much they can offer, but also the complexities of giving feedback in a helpful manner.

2023 brought some big changes to our team. For me, one of the main things I've learned in the past year is how to leverage everyone's skills, strengths, and backgrounds. Seeing how everyone can add value and how we can best combine that has enabled us to run projects smoothly. In addition, in the past year, I've spent more time on building personal relationships with Googlers, and taking over the role of being the first touch point on the Google side.

In 2024, I’m ready to dive into uncharted territory. I want to explore new projects and make them shine. But it’s not just about nailing these projects; it’s about soaking up all the lessons they offer. I want to take these experiences and add them to our toolkit, expanding what we can offer our clients. I’m excited to tackle different challenges, play around with fresh design ideas, and really learn the ropes. 2024 will be a year we level up our game and give our clients an even wider range of cool stuff we can do for them.

Looking ahead to 2024, my goal is to make the Cloud Space project a success. I'm enthusiastic about steering it towards where we envisioned it to go, and potentially make a mark in Google's "uncharted territories".

For 2024, I would like to work on a few more white glove campaigns, I enjoy their simplicity and the structure that experience has given them, it would also be great to work on some of the upcoming Google project, such as their exhibitions.

In 2024, the Google team will expand even further on our activities - moving from mostly ABM and events to a combination of those and projects such as Cloud Space in DACH and the innovation roadmap for the Benelux. For me, this brings new challenges (and opportunities!) in building new 'machines' for currently unknown processes together with the rest of the team.

We have kicked off our Cloud Space project and are aiming to finalize the first stage (ftrpln) by the end of the year. In Q1 2024, we will then focus on the second stage, which involves the tech and design production of 8 demos.

We will run a large ABM campaign on the topic of Sovereignty in the DACH region. White Glove / Light division is still to be determined. The largest share of work will take place in Q1.

We are preparing a campaign that includes communication assets, social media assets and posts, and possibly a video, to enable the Benelux region to start the year strong. Communications will likely revolve around upcoming business challenges in 2024, and how to tackle those with Google Cloud.

We will also support the Benelux with the concept and design of their 'innovation roadmap', which highlights how business leaders can level up their organization's innovation strategy.

"You are really great and, as I've mentioned to Anne several times, my personal favorite agency partner. Keep up the outstanding work!"

"My boss and colleagues simply LOVE the video and would also like to use it at Google Next London. [...] This is what happens when you create something great! ;-)"

"[...] you guys are the world champions in ABM (besides so many other things)."

"You and your team have been amazing to work with."