The Fishbowl: Dominic Grant, ESL Faceit Group
The Fishbowl
The Media Leader’s interview series asks the media industry’s top salespeople 10 revealing questions, drawn from our fishbowl. The questions will be drawn at random and contain some tricky posers set by the commercial chiefs themselves.
This week: Dominic Grant, director of advertising sales, EMEA, at ESL Faceit Group.
Grant joined esports company ESL Faceit Group in October 2024, with a focus on building strategic partnerships with brands and agencies across the UK and key EMEA markets.
Before that, he spent more than six years at Spotify, most recently as UK director of sales, having risen from senior client partner.
Grant has also worked at ad platform Playwire, which supports gaming, entertainment and children’s publishers, where he handled European digital sales.
Why are you passionate about media?
Media offers endless possibilities for creativity. Whether it’s storytelling, innovative campaigns or new ways to engage audiences, the medium allows for constant exploration and fresh ideas.
I also love the opportunity to meet new people and build meaningful relationships, as media connects us across diverse backgrounds and industries.
There’s something really rewarding about seeing tangible results and a campaign that just kicks.
What is coming up in conversations with clients?
Innovation is always a talking point as brands explore new formats and creative strategies to capture audience attention. Clients are focusing more on attribution to ensure adspend delivers measurable results.
Brands are also aligning their advertising with sustainability efforts, promoting eco-friendly initiatives and responsible marketing practices.
These shifts are shaping the future of media strategies, with a growing emphasis on efficiency, accountability, and purpose.
When did you last change your mind about something?
My son’s birthday party venue choice: Clip ‘n Climb or football. Either way, it will involve strawberry milkshakes and waffles.
What’s your favourite ad of all time?
It has to be the Skittles ad — so simple but so hilariously effective. Tim is just an ordinary guy trying to get through his day, but everything he touches turns into Skittles. As his frustration grows, he bangs his desk in anger — only for it to turn into Skittles too.
“Touch the rainbow, taste the rainbow.” It’s a classic that never gets old.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Control the controllables. Life is rarely straightforward. We all face challenges, but the key is to have confidence in yourself, your abilities and your worth. Embrace the concept of the sphere of influence: focus on what you can control, what you can influence and recognise what lies beyond your reach.
By directing your energy towards what you can change and releasing what you cannot, you build resilience and find clarity, even in the most difficult times.
What are three words that people often use to describe you?
I’m absolutely hilarious — if you don’t laugh when we talk, that’s on you!
But, in all seriousness, people often describe me as passionate, energetic and caring. I bring a lot of enthusiasm to everything I do, whether it’s work or personal projects. I dive in with energy and commitment, and genuinely care about the wellbeing and success of those around me.
What are the three most important skills that a media salesperson needs in 2025?
- Effective communication to listen, negotiate and articulate your message clearly
- Adaptability to embrace and navigate change
- Relationship-building to forge meaningful connections
Peer question: What advice would you give yourself at the start of your career with the hindsight you have now?
Spend, but save and invest more!
Question from Ben Walmsley, former managing director, The Sun
Peer question: If you could live in somebody else’s shoes for one day, whose would you choose?
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. As a fellow fitness enthusiast, and putting his traps and biceps aside, from incredibly humble beginnings he has worked very hard to become a hugely successful entrepreneur and businessman — all while putting his family first.
Question from Ryan Rummery, commercial Dax director, Global
Peer question: If you could be any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Steve Jobs. His vision for design, innovation and simplicity reshaped technology and entertainment as we know it.
Question from Jason Spencer, business development director, ITV
Read more Fishbowl interviews here and see what media’s top salespeople say about working in the industry and what concerns their clients. To suggest an interviewee, contact [email protected].