Title: Director of Marketing
Firm: Ulmer & Berne LLP
Education: B.A. Communications & English, Cleveland State University
Where did you grow up? Cleveland area – specifically Mentor, Ohio
What was your first job? I was the Editorial Relations Manager for Penton Publishing (now Penton Media). My job was to help position the company’s editors as subject matter experts and to secure national exposure for them based on the editorial products (trade magazines) they produced. Basically, I was a press agent for editors.
What would you be doing if you weren't in your current job? More than likely, I’d work in the restaurant/food industry.
What is currently on your iPod? I love all types of music, but believe it or not, I don’t own an iPod.
Where is your favorite place to go to relax? Marco Island, Florida
What is your favorite TV show? Favorite movie? CBS Sunday Morning or Modern Family for TV show. Favorite movie is The Godfather.
What is your favorite cuisine? Anything my husband creates – he’s a chef.
If you were stranded on a desert island, who or what would you want to have with you? A Navy SEAL with a GPS device. And until we were rescued, I’d want shelter, matches, water purifier and a knife.
Who are the most important people in your life? My husband, immediate family members and my girlfriends – the people who have never left my side regardless of the circumstances.
What is the first thing you read in the morning? Fast Company, Inc., Fortune or a similar publication. I love to be inspired by the ideas of entrepreneurs and successful business owners who focus on possibility thinking and creative methods of turning dreams into reality.
How did you get into legal marketing? I love working in a professional services environment with progressive- minded individuals who put the needs of their clients first. When I was searching for a new opportunity, I noticed an open communications/business development position at Ulmer & Berne and knew I could add value. Living in Cleveland my entire life, I already knew what a well-respected firm U&B is and had the chance to work with a few of the talented attorneys while at a start-up company. It was a natural fit for me.
What is the best thing about your job? I work with incredibly bright people who care.
What advice would you offer a new entrant to the world of legal marketing? Focus on developing relationships at all level and with all people at the firm, work hard to earn trust and figure out a way to deliver value. Don’t be discouraged when you hear, “The problem is...” or “We’ve always done it this way...” Bring ideas to the firm, lead by example and maintain a positive attitude.