For today’s article we had a chat with Maribeth Brown, Global Marketing Director for Digital Events, in order to find out more about her career path and how she feels about working for the Cloud Communications division of NTT Ltd.
Previously Product Manager for another company, she joined the Cloud Communications division of NTT Ltd. one year ago, in this global marketing role. Here the focus is on staying in sync with Product and Sales colleagues to meet our clients’ evolving needs. Ask her how she manages to address the varied global marketing concerns and finds ways to bring solutions, and she will proudly praise teamwork: “I have great support and creative input from the global marketing team. I actively listen and ask for advice from others.”
We asked her five questions to understand more about her work and what drives her.
Q. In your opinion, what skills are essential to be a good Global Marketing Director?
No matter how much preparation you put toward any global marketing effort, frequent and open communication, as well as maintaining an adaptable and open-minded mindset are essential to success. A great idea in one global region, may not resonate in another region. It’s the expertise and feedback from our regional marketing teams that ensure we fine tune global initiatives, understanding the needs of the client in the local market, to maximize results. If you believe your way is the only way to do it, you’re setting yourself up to fail.
Q. Was working for an international telecommunications company one of your career goals?
Even as a kid, I was interested in cultural differences and global affairs. At 14, I had dreams of working in international business but thought that my destiny was in the world of advertising in the fashion, art, and design industries. I took years of French courses and at university I studied Marketing & International Business. After graduation, my first job was in the conferencing industry – and I’ve never looked back. The ‘14-year-old girl’ in me thinks I have a pretty cool job today.
Q. It’s been a year since you joined the Cloud Communications division of NTT Ltd. How did you feel when you started working here?
I felt I would be challenging myself, but felt confident that I was joining the right team. During the year, I’ve seen that teams – across all functions and levels of the company – come together to tackle big challenges on short timelines.
Q. We saw on your LinkedIn that you have plenty of volunteer experience. Why is this so important to you?
I have benefitted from others who volunteer, and I believe it’s important to pay that forward.
Q. What advice would you give to someone wanting to follow a career like yours?
Don’t be afraid to get off of the career path you’ve set for yourself. Take on new challenges and get out of your comfort zone if you want to grow professionally. I have worked in a variety of roles that are not marketing specifically. The positions I’ve held in product development, product management, and sales support have increased the value that I bring to my current role.
