PPB September 2018

FEATURE | Rising Stars Her Inspiration The movie Moneyball . It’s the story of Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland A’s. He has to rebuild his team with a limited payroll and he does it by throwing out the conventional way of recruiting and uses analysis and statistics instead. It’s all about challenging accepted procedures and completely reinventing how things work to improve success. Adapt or die: That’s an especially relevant message for a creative thinker, for a marketing professional and for the industry. Best Advice Learn as many aspects of the company as you get the chance to, and work your tail off. Everything is interconnected—from proofs, to customer service, to art, to sales and printing. Ask questions, attend education sessions and join webinars. It will not only give you a greater understanding and respect for the process (and for your coworkers), but it will help you improve the job you’re performing and grow within the company. If all else fails—just work hard. Work smarter and harder than everyone. Change She’d Like To See The industry is undergoing a generational transition and I’d like to see younger people step up and take leadership roles. Julie Fritsch, 34 Vice President of Marketing Starline USA, Inc. J ulie Fritsch earned a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2006 and studied 3D animation before taking a job at a diamond engagement ring manufacturer in New York City. When the company consolidated and moved, she happened upon an open position at supplier Jetline, and made the move to supplier Starline USA, Inc. a few years later. Coworker and former Rising Star Jon Norris, one of her two nominators, is glad she did. “Julie is one of the brightest and hardest working people that I have encountered in my industry career. And her passion is contagious,” he says. “Julie attacks marketplace weaknesses within our organization and uses her skills and passion to generate growth.” Her accomplishments, aside from being the youngest VP in company history, include developing and executing a plan to better attract marketing talent and new teammembers at the new office in New Jersey; leading a complete rebuild of the company website resulting in explosive growth; and developing a comprehensive marketing plan for a struggling sales region that soon saw positive growth. Nominator and coworker Brian Porter adds, “She’s got an outstanding background, is a forward thinker, never settles and works harder than anyone I know.” 32 | SEPTEMBER 2018 |