It’s what happens when we harness the power of our humanity.
Because people decide whether ideas have value. People advance progress. People are why we do what we do.
We define success by a different set of metrics. Emotion. Connection. Belonging. Action. These compel us as human beings. And being human is how we achieve extraordinary.
What is your leadership philosophy?
“Be good, do good.” These are the words that guide my life, work, everything. Whether it’s nurturing the talents of others or supporting their growth both personally and professionally, I always strive to be a positive influence for everyone around me—in and out of the office.
Experiences For Mankind was built on late nights, sweat, and a little more than a few tears. So I truly consider my team as family, even if it goes against conventional wisdom. As a partner, my approach is to set an example by championing and living up to my values. Honesty. Accountability. Collaboration. Treating people the way they would want, and deserve, to be treated.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Surround yourself with points of view that differ from your own. Listen more than you speak. Measure success not by the end product, but by the lessons learned, relationships built, and obstacles you overcome along the way.
What does your average day look like?
My every day is making magic happen with purpose behind every step – unwinding marketing challenges with clients, fostering individual development with team members, and creating an agency environment our team wants to thrive in.
As our master of chaos prevention, I know there is a balance within control and serendipity. It’s also incredibly hard to achieve. In developing processes, recognizing opportunities, and providing a direction to move forward, I hope to provide the space necessary for insights and creativity that each team member knows they can achieve.
What does it take to succeed in client experience?
Care, candor, and curiosity. They’re the underpinnings of our own CX team for a great reason – each are qualities we have to live to ensure our clients trust in what we do every day. Patience is also required. The day can throw so much at us, and we have to roll with it.
How can strategy make or break a brand?
Our work is based on insights. Data is great, and useful, but having that information in hand doesn’t give you a strategy. Distilling insights is a completely different, wholly human act. If you haven’t gone through the process of figuring out “we’re going to achieve X by doing Y,” why that makes sense, and making some tough choices along the way, there’s still quite a bit of strategy to be added.
I’ve seen strategy defined as, “An informed choice on how to win.” It’s not about making sure everyone gets what they want, and it’s not a guarantee of success. It’s about making choices—putting together pieces of information in ways that provide context and bring the world into focus.
What is your mantra?
“There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” – Leonard Cohen
I’m someone who’s analytical by nature and creative in practice—always looking for new ways to mix and remix the puzzle pieces life throws at us. Whether it’s through the countries I’ve lived in, the diverse people I’ve met, or the rabbit holes of random interests I’ve fallen into, I use my experiences and perspectives to find the cracks and illuminate unsaid truths.
How do you build healthy client relationships?
I have always approached account management with a service mindset. My job is to advocate for the client’s goals while keeping the customer experience front and center. A successful relationship takes clear and honest communication from the very first project brief all the way to the final delivery.
We know changes can happen that we aren’t always prepared for. In these times, it’s my role to guide all parties to a solution that both meets business goals and serves the needs of the end user. I know I have succeeded when the client and our creative team are proud of the work and the client keeps coming back for more.
What are some key skills for client experience?
Organization is vital, from the way I categorize my emails to how I label my files and take notes. Adaptability is another one. You have to be able to adjust to different situations and get along with pretty much anyone. Personally, I find it important to have major respect for the work, but not take myself too seriously. It’s all about finding that right balance.
We don’t do everything, but we can do anything. Our veteran team is lean by design, supported by a deep roster of specialized partners on deck to execute beyond our in-house capabilities. This ensures our clients have the flexibility, expertise, and the resources to move at whatever pace their challenges demand.
For over 20 years, our close-knit San Diego agency has empowered clients to put their customers first. Building partnerships on candor and mutual respect. Combining strategic vision with creative firepower. Connecting business goals and audiences in ways that make people think, feel, and act.
Think you have what it takes to make things that matter with people who care? Visit our open opportunities to see where you might be a fit.
