Episoder
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In today’s talent war, outdated HR practices are holding firms back. The way forward is to create workplaces that attract and retain the best people.
In this AEC Marketing for Principals episode, host Katie Cash and co-host Judy welcome Mark Zweig, founder and CEO of Zweig Group, a leading AEC consulting firm. Mark talks about his journey from consulting to launching his own business and shares his perspective on some of the industry’s biggest challenges—especially when hiring and keeping top talent.
Mark’s perspective is both a wake-up call and an inspiration for you to embrace dynamic strategies for long-term growth and employee retention.
Topics discussed in this episode:
serial entrepreneurconsultinghuman resourcesCEOmarketingtalent warrecruitingemployee retentionbusiness growthopen book managementbrand identityJoin Katie and Judy at SmartWin2025 on February 11, 2025. Use code "Smart30" and get 30% off your registration. https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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CRM systems are revolutionizing project management and collaboration in the construction industry.
Today, Katie talks with Tom Deane, Co-Founder and CEO of ProjectMark, about how their user-friendly CRM helps construction teams of all sizes get started easily. They explore how AI and automation are changing project management, especially in making informed decisions and speeding up proposals. Tom also shares practical tips for organizing information to help your team see real results in their daily work.
If you're looking for solid advice on how to build a team-oriented company culture that helps both field and office teams feel informed and connected, this episode is for you.
Topics discussed in this episode:
innovation and strategyproject managementsmart strategiesconstructionbusiness developmentTechnologyCMRsmarketing strategydesign & constructionsales and marketingConnect:
Connect with Tom Deane - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-deane-5b93b93a/
Join Katie and Judy at SmartWin2025 on February 11, 2025. Use code "Smart30" and get 30% off your registration. https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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Mangler du episoder?
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Strategies and operations are key to helping your team make smart decisions, work more efficiently, and adapt to a changing market.
Join Katie in this episode as she sits down with Stu Haney, Management Consultant of AEC OPS to talk about his innovative BOSS method. They’ll talk about the importance of respectful talent acquisition, implementing structured systems, and recognizing operational shortcomings.
Get the insights and practical strategies you need to create a positive workplace culture, boost employee engagement, and drive growth in your business.
Topics discussed in this episode:
management consultingdesign and constructionproject managementbusiness strategiesBOSS methodtalent acquisitionoperational efficiency workplace culturerecruitment strategiesbusiness successsystemic approachConnect with Stu Haney, AEC Management Consultant - AEC OPS
https://aec-ops.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewart-c-haney/
Join Katie and Judy at SmartWin2025 on February 11, 2025. Use code "Smart40" and get 40% off your registration. https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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As a professional, you probably work hard to perfect your craft but might be neglecting the essential skills of business management.
In this episode of AEC, Katie chats with Kyle Peterson, Principal and Business Leader at Nelson Worldwide, about his role managing six studio locations and how his design background guides his business approach. Kyle highlights the importance of being a trusted partner and truly understanding clients' needs to drive success.
Tune in to discover how to blend your vision with real operational expertise to achieve powerful strategic growth.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Nelson Worldwidebusiness leadersales strategiesbusiness managementarchitecturesmart marketingstrategies that make an impactbusiness datadesign excellencefinancial successbusiness changefinancial literacysales processConnect with Kyle Peterson, Principal NELSON Worldwide:
https://nelsonworldwide.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylerpetersonmba/
Join Katie and Judy at PSMJ Resources AEC MarketPro! This year's event will occur on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Use code "Smartegies" to receive $200 off your registration.
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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Katie is back and talking to Bryce Batts, a seasoned recruiter and co-owner of Career Collective, to explore attracting and retaining top talent in the AEC industry. Bryce emphasizes the need for swift communication and efficient interview processes to capture high-caliber candidates' interest. She advises employers to collaborate closely with recruiters, timing offers strategically to avoid premature proposals that candidates might leverage for better opportunities. They also discuss the importance of making strong initial offers rather than attempting lowball negotiations, which can deter potential hires. Authentic job descriptions and genuine passion in the recruitment process are essential to attract the right talent.
The discussion shifts to the competitive nature of the current job market, highlighting the importance of digital presence and effective employer branding. Embracing platforms like LinkedIn™ for outreach and showcasing company culture is crucial. Bryce advocates for proactive networking and personalized direct outreach over mere job postings. The conversation also underscores the benefits of offering flexible work schedules, generous PTO, and compelling employee perks to remain competitive without straining financial resources. Collaborative efforts between marketing, HR, and recruitment teams are vital for crafting impactful hiring strategies that resonate with prospective hires and align with the company's values and culture.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Job descriptionsRecruitmentAEC IndustryCareer-minded womenNetworkingDigital platformsWork-Life balanceConnect with Bryce Betts, Career Coach and Co-owner of Career Collective
https://www.mycareercollective.com/
Follow her on Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wine-after-work/id1590870145Founded with a Singular Vision: Providing both candidates and employers with premier access to the best in AEC Industry opportunities. We empower employers with the right talent and candidates with career-defining opportunities ensuring that every placement is not just a job filled, but an effective, strategic fit.
Join Katie and Judy at PSMJ Resources AEC MarketPro! This year's event will take place Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Use code "Smartegies" to receive $200 off your registration.
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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Katie Cash talks with Tara Bleakley, Associate Director for Market Transformation and Development at the USGBC's Florida chapter. Tara shares a brief overview of her career, starting with a background in art history and art business, which led her to various marketing roles from London to Orlando. She discusses her tenure at TLC Engineering Solutions, where she rose to partnership before taking a sabbatical to reconnect with family. This break steered her toward her current role at USGBC, fueled by her passion for combating climate change.
Tara’s current initiatives at USGBC extend beyond LEED certifications to include supporting sustainable and resilient community development. She believes in the critical role of mentorship within the AEC industry, particularly emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between seasoned professionals and young leaders. Tara emphasizes how her experiences inform her advocacy for sustainable building practices that not only meet but exceed established standards, thereby enhancing equity, affordability, and inclusivity in projects.
Topics discussed in this episode:
LEED CertificationClimate changeYoung leadersInclusivity in buildingsBusiness developmentSustainabilityConnect with Tara Bleakley, Associate Director, Market Transformation & Development
US Green Building Council
https://www.usgbc.org/people/tara-bleakley/0011562083
Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-bleakley-576a7613/
As the Florida Associate Director, for the Market Transformation and Development team at the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), Tara plays a pivotal role in driving the organization's mission of transforming the built environment into a more sustainable and environmentally responsible sector. Tara focuses on creating strategic initiatives and partnerships to foster the adoption of green building practices and sustainable design principles within the broader market. Tara contributes to driving sustainability forward in the building and construction industry by fostering collaboration, advocating for policy changes, and promoting LEED building standards and practices. A big focus is engaging with USGBC’s current stakeholder base around core programs and cultivating business opportunities for LEED with new clients in major target sectors.
In Tara's spare time she enjoys adventuring in nature with her family, traveling for food and relaxing with a good book.
Join Katie and Judy at PSMJ Resources AEC MarketPro! This year's event will take place Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Use code "Smartegies" to receive $200 off your registration.
Connect with Katie
https://smartegies.com/
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Securing future work and attracting top talent are the lifeblood of the AEC industry, a reality that hosts Katie and Judy passionately emphasize in the season six premiere of AEC Marketing for Principals. This season’s theme, “Making an Impact,” focuses on HR and recruiting tactics, business development strategies, and content marketing within the industry.
Making an Impact in the AEC IndustryGender Diversity in ArchitectureGen Z in the WorkforceB2B Marketing StrategiesContent MarketingMentoring and Emerging Leaders
In upcoming episodes, we will spotlight individuals driving change and facing unprecedented challenges in the AEC sector, discussing topics like the integration of technology and AI to streamline business processes and elevate job efficiency.
With more gender diversity among architecture students, the industry is primed for change. However, women are still underrepresented as registered architects, highlighting the ongoing gender equality issues. Katie and Judy also dive into the evolving demographics of B2B buyers, led by Gen Z and Millennials, and how these shifts are shaping new marketing and communication strategies. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in recruiting this younger generation. This season opener offers just a glimpse of what's ahead.
Episode Highlights:
Resources:
26 percent of Gen Z applicants bringing parent to job interview: Survey
Join Katie and Judy at PSMJ Resources AEC MarketPro! This year's event will take place Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Use code "Smartegies" to receive $200 off your registration.
Connect with Judy Sparks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judysparks/
Connect with Katie Cash:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/ -
Katie sits down with Associate Principal and Regional Practice Leader, Brad Ewing, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, from NELSON Worldwide. Brad talks about one of the unexpected skills that architects need to master–sales. He emphasizes the importance of being adaptable and flexible for career progression in the AEC sector.
Brad also offers invaluable advice on preparing for procurement season, focusing on understanding client goals and fostering robust client relationships.
Connect with Brad Ewing, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP:
Brad Ewing is a distinguished architect and associate principal at NELSON Worldwide, where he brings over 24 years of experience in leading teams and managing complex projects across various sectors. As the regional practice leader for civic, community, justice, and education, Brad is known for his innovative and sustainable design solutions that resonate with stakeholders' needs and expectations.
In his role, Brad not only oversees the production of design and construction drawings but also steers the strategic growth and financial success of his practice across the Southeast region. His expertise extends to advising clients on best practices and lessons learned from his extensive work in institutional, aerospace, aviation, federal, county, and state projects, both in secure and non-secure environments.
Brad's passion for creating quality designs that enhance public spaces and user experiences is evident in his collaborative approach with his team and partners. His commitment to excellence is a driving force behind his successful leadership in the AEC industry.
At SmartWIN24, we invited Brad to share his insights and strategies that led to the winning outcome for the State of Georgia's largest project ever. His experience in leading such a monumental project, coupled with his expertise in sustainable and impactful design, makes him an invaluable contributor to our conference. Attendees will gain a rare glimpse into the strategic thinking and leadership that are essential in securing and executing major AEC projects.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbradewing/
Website: https://www.nelsonworldwide.com/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
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Do you feel lost in the sea of mergers and acquisitions? Katie is talking with Tiffany Konenkamp, CPSM, from Century Fire, about branding and M&A in the AEC sector.
Tiffany discusses the nuances of acquiring smaller firms, focusing on the need to balance respect for the acquired company's brand while transitioning to the Century Fire identity. She emphasizes the critical nature of value alignment and the importance of effective communication during the rebranding phase, providing actionable advice for firms undergoing similar changes.
Connect with Tiffany Konenkamp, CPSM:
Tiffany is a dynamic force in the AEC industry, exemplifying the trajectory of a marketing expert whose strategic vision and operational acumen have served her well at Century Fire Protection, one of the fastest-growing fire protection companies in the U.S. Her story is one of ascent, from her roots in marketing within the AEC sector to her current dual-hatted role as Director of Marketing and Division Manager.
At Century Fire Protection, Tiffany leads the Alarm & Special Hazards Service Division with a keen eye for innovation and efficiency. Her marketing expertise is equally evident as she spearheads comprehensive marketing strategies, encompassing everything from digital marketing to employee engagement. As a leader, she plays a key role in branding initiatives, particularly during mergers and acquisitions, aligning with Century Fire’s growth and vision.
Tiffany's career is marked by a series of transitions, from marketing to sales and operations and back to marketing again, showcasing her versatility and deep understanding of the AEC industry's multifaceted nature. Her expertise is further solidified by her NICET Level III certification and her recognition within Century Fire’s Sales Achievement Award for outstanding sales achievements.
As a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM), Tiffany has not only led SMPS Atlanta as Past President but has also been honored as Chapter President of the Year. Her commitment to the profession extends to her past role as Co-Chair of the national CPSM certification program, influencing the standards of excellence in AEC marketing.
An Auburn University alumna, Tiffany's spirited "WAR EAGLE!" echoes her enthusiasm and zest, which she brings to every initiative she leads. When she's not driving marketing and operational success, she's devoted to her family in Roswell, GA, and can often be found cheering on her son Hayden at the baseball field.
At SmartWIN24, we're proud to feature Tiffany as a speaker who has not only climbed the ranks within the AEC industry but has also shaped the strategic marketing landscape through her innovative approaches and dedication to excellence. Her insights into branding, digital strategy, and the integration of marketing within operations make her an invaluable contributor to our 'Leap into the Future' theme.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tkonenkamp/
Website: https://www.centuryfp.com/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/ -
Katie is back with Balfour Beatty's Senior Vice President, Mike Macon, discussing the construction giant's brand strategy and competitive positioning. Mike details the company's approach to winning large public sector projects, emphasizing the necessity of aligning with client expectations, the pivotal role of communications, and the importance of detailed preparation for client presentations.
They dive into the dynamics of project pursuit, stressing vulnerability and feedback's role in navigating the competitive environment. The conversation offers insights for firms aiming to bolster their market stance and confidently tackle strategic projects, underscoring the critical impact of communication skills on trust-building and opportunity acquisition and advocating for ongoing collaboration and improvement within the AEC sector.
Connect with Mike Macon:
Mike Macon brings over 25 years of construction industry experience to the table, currently serving as the Senior Vice President and Business Unit Leader for Balfour Beatty's Georgia business. He's not just a seasoned executive; he's a strategic thinker who has led award-winning projects like Buckhead Atlanta, a $1.5 billion luxury retail and mixed-use community. As part of Balfour Beatty's Southeast Division’s executive leadership team, Mike excels in client relationship building, capturing new prospects, and developing winning strategies. His diverse experience across various markets, from corporate office spaces to multifamily residential projects, has been integral to achieving Balfour Beatty’s growth goals.
We've invited Mike to share his insights at SmartWIN24 for a very specific reason. He recently led his team to secure the largest project ever undertaken by the State of Georgia—a $1B+ Correctional Facility. His session will offer a deep dive into what it takes to position your firm strategically to win such monumental public-sector and private-sector projects under a unified and integrated brand and business development strategy. From initial identification to the final pitch, Mike will share the intricacies of securing mega-projects.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-macon-93574316/
Website: https://www.balfourbeatty.com/
Connect with Katie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
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Katie continues her SmartWIN24 speaker spotlight series with Greg C. Hart. - President of PSMJ. He discusses the critical need for a deep understanding of the nuanced challenges and opportunities that the AEC sector faces, particularly considering the varied effects of macroeconomic trends. By drilling down on the data, he’s able to share insights about the strategic use of data and proposal activity as key indicators for planning and decision-making processes.
He outlines PSMJ's role in equipping AEC firms with essential knowledge and tools in areas like project management, business development, financial management, and strategic planning.
Connect with Greg C. Hart:
Greg Hart, President and Consultant for PSMJ | Resources is passionate about helping A/E/C firm leaders strengthen their businesses. In his career, Greg has completed hundreds of business valuations (the ultimate indicator of business performance and value creation) and advised on various mergers and acquisitions and succession plans. He is a valuable AEC consultant not only because he came out of the industry himself but because he can draw from the financial and analytical side of his background as well as the creative and “just go for it” side.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/psmj-resources-inc-/
Website: https://www.psmj.com/
Resources:
Episode 53: The Future of AEC Marketing: Embracing Innovation and Adapting to Change: https://smartegies.com/podcasts/the-future-of-aec-marketing-embracing-innovation-and-adapting-to-change/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/ -
The challenges businesses encounter in generating pipeline and revenue have changed. SmartWIN24 speaker and Smartegies Alliance Partner Megan Gregory joins the podcast. With two decades of sales and marketing expertise, Megan offers insights into contemporary marketing strategies. Specifically targeting AEC firms, she discusses the importance of understanding your audience, pinpointing their issues, and deploying a continuous marketing engine powered by paid media. The conversation sheds light on the shifting paradigms of advertising, stressing the necessity of engaging potential clients and innovating ways to connect and resonate with them.
Marketing has its own intricacies in today’s digital age, and it is important that AEC marketers learn to pursue the latest trends and technologies. Megan advocates for a grounded approach that prioritizes a clear understanding of the business's specific objectives and audience. Her unique perspective offers a balanced view, advocating for strategic, targeted, and intentional marketing efforts.
Connect with Megan Gregory:
For over 20 years, Megan has worked in a variety of sales and marketing roles in data management software companies. And while the roles have been varied and include Business Development, Territory & LOB Sales Management, Partner & Alliances, Content Marketing, Marketing Operations, and Demand Gen; the thread that ties it all together is understanding companies want to gain more customers and keep the ones already earned.
As a Smartegies Alliance Partner, Megan uses this to help clients enhance their digital presence, optimize online campaigns, and integrate innovative media strategies.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-m-gregory/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/ -
Are you enabling the people at your firm to help you grow? Katie welcomes Greg Johnson, PE, a Partner at the distinguished MEP engineering firm Newcomb and Boyd, to the podcast. Greg discusses investments in marketing and business development resources, emphasizing the role of networking and knowledge exchange at events like SmartWIN24. He emphasizes the importance of close-knit networking and open dialogue among industry peers, aiming to learn from their experiences and insights into innovation and technology. He also touches on the need for a synergistic relationship between marketing, business development, and engineering teams to achieve shared success.
Connect with Greg Johnson:
Greg Johnson, PE, is a leader who exemplifies a forward-thinking mindset in the AEC industry. As a Partner at Newcomb & Boyd, a firm with a century-long legacy, Greg has been instrumental in helping steer the company through leadership transitions, growth into new geographies, and growing the complexity of the firm’s collective portfolio.
Greg's approach to design and client service is mirrored in his strategy for marketing and business development. He applies the same level of informed leadership and collaborative decision-making to ensure that the relationships built with clients and employees are as high-quality and enduring as the services his firm provides. This holistic approach to project execution and client and employee engagement is a cornerstone of his firm's century-long success.
At SmartWIN24, Greg will share his journey, helping guide the firm through significant changes and adapting to the evolving landscape of AEC marketing. His experience effectively blending traditional values with modern marketing techniques makes him an invaluable speaker.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-johnson-pe-6a03774/
Website: https://www.newcomb-boyd.com/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/ -
Brooke Lewis, CPSM, Associate Director of Marketing for Stratus Team, LLC, sits down with Katie on today’s episode. Lewis oversees marketing across all firm locations and discusses her first-hand experience with M&A, the challenges of building a marketing team and brand from scratch and adapting to technology's fast pace in the AEC industry.
Limited spots remain for our upcoming SmartWIN24! This must-attend event is where AEC Firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Brooke Lewis, CPSM:
Brooke Lewis is a seasoned marketing professional with over a decade of experience in the A/E industry. As the Associate Director of Marketing at Stratus Team, LLC, her expertise in marketing strategy and business development contributes to the platform's strategic growth initiatives. Stratus comprises a network of multi-disciplinary engineering, architecture, and consulting firms, providing a united platform for innovative design services and solutions.
Throughout her career, Lewis has demonstrated a deep understanding of market dynamics and client needs. She guides diverse initiatives for business development efforts and delivers in-depth marketing strategies to assist in fostering client relationships and fuel regional market expansion for Stratus in both the private and public sectors. Lewis played a pivotal role in establishing Stratus' brand identity and shaping the marketing department from its inception, laying a robust foundation for the company's growth.
A native of Atlanta, Ga., Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurial Management from the University of South Carolina and is a Certified Professional Services Marketer. She has served as a marketing volunteer for the annual Forever family 5K 4Kids race in Atlanta and mentor undergraduates at her alma mater. Lewis is an avid tennis player. In her downtime, she enjoys hiking the North Georgia mountains, adding stamps to her passport, and spending time with her dog, Nala.
Website: https://stratusteam.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-brooke-lewis/
Resources:
Register for SmartWIN24: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Website: https://smartegies.com/ -
Jeff Kinsler, Senior Account Executive and Media Consultant for OUTFRONT Media joins the conversation today. Kinsler outlines OUTFRONT's operations, highlighting its commitment to leveraging creative design for business growth. He delves into the evolution of out-of-home advertising, including the integration of digital capabilities and geofencing for more targeted, personalized campaigns.
Limited spots remain for our upcoming SmartWIN24! This must-attend event is where AEC Firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Jeff Kinsler:
Jeff has over 34 years of sales experience, with 22 of those years focused solely on media. He is a Senior Account Executive-Media Consultant at OUTFRONT – an Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising business.
He is also a dedicated family person, happily married, and a proud parent to five children. The family is excitedly anticipating the arrival of a grandchild.
Website: https://www.outfront.com/
Resources:
Register for SmartWIN24: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
Connect with Katie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Website: https://smartegies.com/ -
Host Katie Cash chats with Smartegies Alliance Partner, Katie Harris. In this episode, Katie provides growth strategy insights for design, engineering, and development firms. She highlights the evolving marketing role in the AEC industry, focusing on the vital need for effective internal and external communications for business growth. She also discusses marketing, business development, and communication teams' crucial contributions to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) success.
Limited spots remain for our upcoming SmartWIN24! This must-attend event is where AEC Firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Katie Harris:
Katie is a creative, strategic, and driven leader with a passion for making things better today than they were yesterday. She has worked exclusively in the architecture/engineering industry for more than 15 years, where she has provided leadership in areas such as marketing, branding, internal communications, mergers and acquisitions, recruitment and retention, business development, and strategic business planning.
As a Smartegies Alliance Partner, Katie utilizes her full range of marketing skills to manage and execute large projects for AEC clients across the United States.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieharrisprofile/
Connect with Katie Cash:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Resources:
SmartWIN24: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/ -
Host Katie Cash sits down with Beth Ament - Associate Vice President, Senior Manager of Communications and Marketing at Epsten Group, a Salas O’Brien company. Together, they reflect on the evolution of business development and marketing within the AEC industry. They discuss the importance of knowing your intended audience and the effectiveness of diversifying marketing approaches, from direct interactions to digital platforms.
Limited spots remain for our upcoming SmartWIN24! This must-attend event is where AEC Firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Beth Ament:
As the Associate Vice President, Senior Manager of Communications and Marketing at Epsten Group, a Salas O’Brien company, Beth Ament stands at the intersection of sustainability and storytelling. With a career spanning over 15 years, Beth has honed her expertise in sustainability consulting, transportation demand management, and community outreach, all while leading a dynamic team of creatives dedicated to broadcasting the Epsten Group narrative.
Beth's approach to marketing is deeply rooted in her commitment to health and wellbeing, principles that resonate with the core values of Epsten Group. Her leadership extends beyond traditional marketing roles; she is an integral part of the company's Health and Wellness Committee, a TRUE Advisor, and a LEED Green Associate. Her dedication is also evident in her personal pursuits as a certified yoga instructor and a chairperson for the USGBC Georgia Market Leadership Advisory Board.
The organic growth of Epsten Group and its recent acquisition by Salas O'Brien have been milestones marked by Beth's leadership in ensuring the brand's authenticity and customer experience remain intact. She champions a brand living strategy that not only communicates but embodies the company's mission in every facet of its operations.
Beth's presence at SmartWIN24 is particularly impactful as she embodies the conference's ethos of 'Leap into the Future.' Her insights into brand stewardship post-acquisition and her innovative approach to internal brand alignment offer invaluable perspectives to AEC firms navigating similar paths of growth and change.
In a world where brand authenticity is paramount, Beth Ament's story is a compelling narrative of how a brand can not only survive an acquisition but thrive through it, maintaining a genuine connection with its audience and empowering its team to be brand ambassadors in the truest sense.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethcament/
Epsten Group Website: https://epstengroup.com/
Salas O’Brien Website: https://salasobrien.com/
Connect with Katie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Resources:Register for SmartWIN24 Today: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
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Katie continues her speaker spotlight series with Joe Walker, the Founding Principal of Walker Architects and host of the "Design For An Agile World” podcast. The discussion centers on the firm's agile design approach, particularly in sectors like higher education, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. He shares insights into leveraging innovative marketing tools to articulate the firm's narrative and establish a distinctive brand identity.
The conversation also explores Joe’s involvement in the upcoming SmartWIN24 event, shedding light on strategies for small firms to build prominent brands. Key topics include the importance of smart positioning, the utilization of new media, and the challenges and successes in founding a new design firm. Joe highlights the value of clear communication in conveying the firm's worth to clients and discusses his podcast's role in amplifying their message through discussions with notable guests.
Limited spots remain for our upcoming SmartWIN24! This must-attend event is where AEC Firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Joe Walker:
Joe Walker is the visionary behind Walker Architects' rapid ascent in the competitive Atlanta AEC market. With a firm belief in the brand promise of "Design for an Agile World," Joe has spearheaded the firm's expansion with a people-first mindset that resonates deeply within the industry. Under his leadership, Walker Architects has not only established a new office in less than two years but has also secured significant projects with the Georgia Department of Education and Columbus State University.
Joe's strategic approach is rooted in his unapologetic commitment to his company's core values, which has been instrumental in navigating the firm through the complexities of market penetration and brand establishment. His dedication to cultivating a culture that prioritizes people has enabled Walker Architects to attract top talent and foster an environment where innovative design meets practical application.
As a champion of agile methodologies, Joe has positioned Walker Architects at the forefront of the AEC industry, where adaptability and responsiveness are not just concepts but the cornerstones of every project undertaken. His participation in SmartWIN24 is a testament to his willingness to share the insights and strategies that have propelled his firm to success in a remarkably short period.
Joe's journey is a compelling narrative of strategic growth, brand integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His story is not just inspiring but also a blueprint for AEC firms looking to make their mark in today's dynamic landscape.
Website: https://walker-arch.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-walker-335b0914/
Connect with Katie Cash:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Resources:
Register for SmartWIN24: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/ -
There are several things to consider when you are creating your brand and trying to differentiate it from others in the design and construction industry. Katie and Judy engage in a discussion about the challenges of crafting a positioning statement, particularly for multidisciplinary firms and smaller subsidiaries within larger brands. They provide practical insights and tips for developing compelling positioning statements that resonate with the target audience and set businesses apart from their competitors.
Katie and Judy also explore how brand positioning impacts the procurement process, shedding light on the need for concise and impactful responses in competitive bidding scenarios. They highlight the significance of making human connections during procurement and sharing compelling narratives to stand out in a limited timeframe.
You can learn about this and so much more at our upcoming SmartWIN24 event. Use code "VIP400" to receive $400 off your registration.
This must-attend event is where AEC firm Principals, Owners, and Marketing Executives come together to explore brand positioning and differentiation strategies, facilitating meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing within the industry.
Connect with Judy and Katie -
Judy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judysparks/
Katie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Website: https://smartegies.com/
Resources -
SmartWIN24 Registration: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/ -
Host Katie Cash sits down with Eric Anest, Senior VP of Marketing and Communications at Salas O'Brien, to discuss the integral role of marketing and effective communication in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in the AEC industry.
Eric shares insights from Salas O'Brien's 30+ mergers that grew the company from 300 to over 2,500 employees. They discuss the importance of strategic communication for successful integration and talent retention post-merger. Eric also highlights Salas O'Brien's collaborative and partnership-orientated approach, which emphasizes customized marketing integration playbooks, internal marketing to help employees understand the combined strengths of the merged entity, and a focus on building emotional connections for smooth transitions to foster organic growth and leverage internal expertise.
Connect with Eric Anest:
Eric Anest serves as VP of Marketing & Communications at Salas O'Brien. He has overseen the expansion and transformation of Salas O'Brien's marketing, playing a pivotal role in the company's growth from 300 to over 2,500 team members, the merger of more than 30 firms into Salas O'Brien, and a major rebranding effort that resulted in a simple, clear, and inspirational message.
But most importantly, he has assembled a team of AEC marketers who are collaborative, humble, intelligent, and dedicated to making Salas O'Brien the best AEC firm in the galaxy.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericanest/
Salas O'Brien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/salasobrien/
Website: https://salasobrien.com/
Connect with Katie Cash:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacash/
Website: https://smartegies.com/
Resources:
Register for SmartWIN24. Use code "SmartListen" for a special discount: https://smartegies.com/smartwin/
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