My first website and blog post! I must admit, this is a pretty exciting moment. For a marketing professional of 15+ years, it feels woefully overdue – but like they say, there’s no time like the present!
Like many others during the COVID-19 pandemic, I have recently found myself unemployed. While I never anticipated being in this position, I feel fortunate to have this time to pursue what it is that I’m really passionate about: Marketing for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs).
My love for SMBs began while working at a small graphic design agency in Vancouver, British Columbia, where many of our clients were small business owners who had the goal of creating strong brands for their packaged goods. It was during my time at this agency where I learned that a brand is so much more than a beautiful design. It is what sets a company and its products apart from the competition, and can mean success or failure for the business. A brand really is that important, and it’s something I’m very passionate about. But, more on that later….
After a two year stint at an engineering and manufacturing company, I eventually found myself working for Sage, a large multi-national accounting software company. During my 8+ years here, I held a variety of marketing roles within the small business division, working under some of the most incredible leadership.
At Sage, SMB customers and partners spanned everything from one-person shops and individual consultants, to mid-sized manufacturing plants. Filling various marketing positions supporting the retail channel, partner programs, and customer marketing, I was able to strengthen my skills in marketing and program strategy, customer acquisition and retention, loyalty programs, and product marketing. This is where I developed a deep understanding of the intricacies of small business, and my interest in providing value to SMBs was solidified.
As lockdowns slowly lift and the economy begins to strengthen, I am focused on supporting SMBs in achieving their goals in a “new normal”, whatever that may mean. With a strong business and marketing background, along with good ideas grounded in common sense, I am well-positioned to help improve the trajectory in a stronger position than ever before.