Name: Sheila Bowmer
Position: Marketing Manager (Salt Lake City, Portland, OR, Seattle, WA offices of Snell & Wilmer)
Family: Husband, Rick
Hometown: Bellevue, Nebraska
Education: Howard University
At what point in your life did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in the legal industry and why are you passionate about your profession?
I worked at a law firm in Washington DC. At that time, they did not have a designated marketing department. The HR department led all of the marketing efforts. I used to volunteer to assist with projects. It was then that I developed an interest in becoming involved.
What made you decide to join LMA and how long have you been involved?
I noticed that the marketing people at my firm always consulted a resource board on the LMA website. It provided a wealth of information from members regarding various issues. Although not a member at the time, I started using my Director’s login for solutions and information.
Tell us a little bit about why you wanted to join the LMASW Board.
My joining the LMASW Board was totally unexpected. I was approached by Rachael Lufkin (former treasurer, LMASW Board) to submit an application. She thought it would be good to have another person from Utah join the Board. I thought about it, and after one of my interviews with Morgan Horvitz, I was sold. She told me that it would be one of the best decisions that I will ever make … she was correct.
What time do you typically get up on a workday, and what’s your ideal morning routine to get it off to a great start?
I normally get up at 6:00 am. My routine is as follows: get dressed, make coffee, log in around 6:45 am – check overnight emails, and prepare emails that need to go out that morning. I also love to start the day with watching local news (weather report, etc.). Head to the office no later than 8:15, I have a 7-minute drive. 😊
What’s a leadership skill you’ve learned the hard way?
Always say Thank You. Although not a skill, I have learned that those two words mean a lot. A show of appreciation goes a long way.
What are some of your hobbies or favorite things to do in your free time?
I am a closet artist. I love to draw in my spare time. I am an entrepreneur and used to have a greeting card business many years ago. My clients included a few celebrities.
Tell us about some of your volunteer efforts in the community and why you support those causes/organizations.
I currently serve on the SLC office Community Involvement Committee. Through my church, I am also a Big Sister to three sisters in the community.
What’s one of the smartest purchases you’ve ever made? What’s one of the dumbest?
The smartest purchase I ever made was my first home when I was in my mid-twenties. I was scared to death! My dumbest purchase was a two-seater Mazda Miata, only one member of my girl squad could travel at a time.
Can you name someone who has had a great impact on you as a leader or someone who has been a mentor to you in your life or career? How have they changed your outlook?
Jackie Sarlo, former Chief Marketing Officer of Snell & Wilmer, has had the biggest impact on my marketing career. Because of her vast knowledge of the industry, her guidance, her mentorship and her friendship, I am well-armed to navigate daily challenges in my current position. She also taught me not to stress out over small stuff – and to have confidence in my decision-making.
I would also like to acknowledge Kristen Bateman (current CMO at Parker Poe), she was my Director at Stoel Rives in Portland, OR. She was my cheerleader and got me excited about legal marketing.
What is something you are absolutely determined to do in life?
I am determined to take a summer off and do the game show circuit – Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Password, etc.