PPB September 2019

Rising Stars | FEATURE Joe Douglas, 27 Client Relations Manager Orbus Exhibit & Display Woodridge, Illinois Education Earned a higher national diploma in architectural design at Stourbridge ATC in the UK First Industry Job He grew up in the UK and worked in the car industry there, but it was family (his father is Giles Douglas, CEO/president of Orbus) and a career opportunity that drew him to move to the U.S. in 2013. He helped Orbus enter the promotional products industry the next year. Why He’s A Rising Star His nominators say he’s the go-to rep for many of the more than 60 trade shows the company exhibits at during the year and he has trained the company’s reps in how to be trade-show experts themselves. Orbus is a fairly new player in the promotional products industry and is quickly making a name for itself through Joe’s outreach and networking. What Inspires Him “I get inspired by hearing success stories of those who started with nothing and built a successful business through their passions and hustles. I am inspired by the businesses and entrepreneurs we get to serve and strive to make them better.” Most Difficult Challenge “Moving across the world at the age of 20 from the UK to the U.S. and having to build all new friendships/relationships and forge my own career in the promotional industry has been a wonderful, welcomed challenge.” What He’d Like To Accomplish In The Next 24 Months “With the exponential growth of Orbus in the promotional industry, I would like to grow my team of event specialists and sales representatives to provide the best service in not only the promo industry but the display and sign industries, too.” What’s Needed To Recruit Young Pros To The Industry “The promotional industry needs to stay up to date and relevant with the growing rate of technology and social media community, along with the use of online forums and Facebook groups. These types of platforms that keep people connected and provide a feeling of community are only the beginning.” Advice For Industry Newbies “Stay hungry, stay motivated and stay connected. Leave a lasting impression on every single person you meet. And most of all, absorb all the information you can from those around you.” Tips To Relax And Recharge “Getting out on the golf course helps me recharge for the next big promo adventure. I also love going to see live music and maybe the occasional gin and tonic.” | SEPTEMBER 2019 | 25