PPB September 2019

FEATURE | Rising Stars Amy Jean Fields, 32 Director of Marketing Barker Specialty Co. Cheshire, Connecticut Education Degree in business management from Central Connecticut State University First Industry Job After college, she worked in hospital administration and noticed the marketing department’s promotional apparel and catalogs, so she did some research and discovered the promo industry. She joined another local distributor in 2012 as an account coordinator, then worked at an ad agency before joining Barker in 2016. Why She’s A Rising Star Fields joined the company three years ago as an account executive; this year her sales will exceed $1 million. She took on the additional marketing role last year and transformed the company’s marketing both internally and externally. She also redesigned the website, implemented a referral program and initiated an internal employee recognition campaign. She represents the company as a principal in the Premier Group and is involved in the local Chamber of Commerce and in the group Abilities Without Boundaries. What Inspires Her “My parents are a great inspiration to me. They have instilled the mentality to ‘work hard, play hard’ and that you ‘get what you give in life, good or bad.’ They’ve been role models to me for my entire life as hard workers and genuine human beings, and I strive to make them proud in everything I do.” Most Difficult Challenge “I have always had a fear of public speaking. I am still working at overcoming this fear with practice and with the support of colleagues, especially Ewa Wlaz, who always has great advice.” What She’d Like To Accomplish In The Next 24 Months “It’s all about growth and development and enjoying life, too. We are currently working on a new marketing initiative for vertical markets to expand business. Over the next 24 months, I want to earn my MAS and get more involved in industry and local organizations. On a personal level, I want to spend more time exploring the U.S.” What’s Needed To Recruit Young Pros To The Industry “While we all love our industry, we still have an identity problem—very few people know what the promotional products industry is, and we need to change that. Most people, just like me, tend to fall into the industry. Many of the steps taken by PPAI, particularly with regards to a closer relationship with the American Marketing Association, are in the right direction. I think we need greater exposure in the college business curriculum as we have become such an important advertising medium. I would like to also one day become an ambassador to present our wonderful story to today’s young professionals. In addition, the shift from totally commission-based compensation to salary is another important step to attracting new talent.” Best Advice For Industry Newbies “To always cherish learning, and if you generally get excited about learning new things, this business will always keep you engaged. Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to ask questions of your peers, colleagues, suppliers and even your clients. Learn outside of the industry too; get to know your clients’ vertical markets and you will be much more valuable to them.” Tips To Relax And Recharge “The gym, cruising on a Harley, riding around in my 1966 Cadillac Coupe de Ville, dinner with friends and family, and of course, spending time with my boyfriend Mike and our dogs, Tacoma and Jack, all give me great pleasure.” 28 | SEPTEMBER 2019 |