Shane O’Brien.

Creative Director / Operations Manager

In an exciting career spanning over 15 years, Shane has worked on countless briefs and has been responsible for the creative direction of many successful projects and campaigns.

Shane’s award-winning creative approach, mixed with diverse marketing communications and management experience, sees a unique ability to strategically forge pathways toward growth and success – not just for our clients, but for Coast at large. More recently, Shane has completed work for Huskee, Womanity Foundation, United Nations Development Programme, National Geographic Traveller, Commonwealth Bank, St. George Bank, Crown Casino and Volkswagen Australia.

What sets Shane apart from other creatives, is his innate ability to transcend traditional ideas, turning them upside-down and inside-out to create innovative solutions to common design problems. In his mind, he sees constant opportunities for learning and growth – and through strong leadership and superb communication, Shane can inspire others in his team to deliver superb and truly beautiful results.

Get to know me.

1. What is your favourite thing about working at Coast?

I love the team. Everyone is so gifted and in their own way, special to me. The energy and enthusiasm of the people I work with keeps me young!

2. How are you creative or innovative in your role at Coast?

Where some think in 2D, I like to play on the X and Y axis; I can’t help but always want to see what is around the next bend, going deeper and pushing others to get more out of their work. I love learning new things, coming up with big ideas and also working on many different projects. I enjoy the challenge of operating a business in a constantly changing world, embracing new technologies and sometimes having to work with limited resources, to obtain maximum results.

3. Describe the vibe at Coast and why you chose to work there

Think of place decorated with throwback playlists, mid-week morning tea treats, Friday drinks, hangs at ‘the Collaboration Desk’, practical jokes, patterns on coffee, countless memes, plenty of laughs, maidenhair ferns and an old, rusty bike. These are a few of our favorite things and the special ingredients that add a touch of magic to our light-filled studio; a home away from home.

4. What unique flavour you bring to the team?

Perhaps salted caramel … a fun-loving, listening ear mixed with a kind heart; but also a voice of reason. I have a very clear vision about where this ship is going, but still enjoy having fun along the way!

5. If you were a character from a famous film or book, who would you be and why?

My nephew thinks I look like Aquaman (hell yea!) haha but I would have to say … Jesus? Not by choice, but because apparently some say I may have looked like him … Must be the long wavy hair, thick beard and linen clothing.

6. What is your fav piece of clothing?

I spend a lot of time outside in the sun and at the beach, so I would have to say my camel coloured, soft brim, panel cap gifted to me by my bestie, Bek. To get away with wearing it to work, I call it my ‘thinking cap’ and it’s also perfect for when you’re having a bad hair day … plus it’s a nice reminder that we are creatives, not corporates.

7. What is your vice when faced with a challenge?

As a surfer, there is nothing better than taking a brief moment out of my day to catch a wave or even just go for a swim. In challenging times or when I’m stressed or feeling anxious, immersing myself in the oceans throws; looking back at our beautiful coastline, helps with gaining perspective and facing challenges with a fearless mentality and knowing that nothing lasts forever.