Scott Meis is the SVP of Digital Content Strategy at Weber Shandwick, a global public relations firm.  

Question 1: How do you define ‘digital strategy’?

To me, digital strategy is a discipline that focuses specifically on mapping the vision, goals, objectives and strategic execution of any online communications outreach. I find it nearly impossible to imagine a marketing plan in 2015 that isn’t structured around digital strategy.

Question 2: What kind of mobile device(s) do you have, and what are your three favorite apps?

I’m an Apple junkie when it comes to phones and love my iPhone 5s. Apps? I’m also a mobile photography nut and thus:  Instagram, Snapseed and VSCOcam.

Question 3: What do you think of the emergence of the Chief Digital Officer role?

It’s huge and long overdue. We’re seeing big brands move quick to centralize some variation of this role within marketing and communications departments and finally start to collapse some silos. Whether it’s chief content officers, chief marketing technologists or similar roles, the need is imperative for brands to put a priority around the role of a lead digital architect who can keep an eye towards innovation while helping orchestrate daily execution and operations.

Question 4: What advice do you have for aspiring digital professionals?

It’s such an exciting and challenging time to be in the digital marketing space. There are opportunities abound but if I could distill it down, I’d say that any aspiring digital strategist in 2015 should learn the power of visual influence, understand how to build community, and learn some basic coding and UX skills. Oh, and here are a few other tips.

Question 5: What are the three most significant digital trends that will define 2015?

1. The convergence of marketing and technology

2. The convergence of marketing and sales

3. The impact of micro-video

For more information on Scott Meis, follow him on Twitter (@scottmeis) or connect with him on LinkedIn.