Current job
In my current role, assistant brand manager at Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits, I wear many hats. I work alongside our director of Marketing to ensure brand success nationally.
I love my current role! Each day is different and for me. Working on my toes combined with the unpredictability that comes with an ever-changing world both within and outside the beverage alcohol industry keeps me motivated to see what the next challenge will be.
Career path
Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to see the world, and while I haven’t seen it all yet I truly believe this spirit of embracing the world/different cultures from a young age was the major influence on my choice to embark on a career in Tourism. Marketing seemed like a great fit because I loved the idea of understanding the consumer better.
Since my first day on the job at the NC Teaching Winery and [Teaching] Brewery, I feel as though I made it my own by sharing my personality with consumers. By allowing them to feel safe in their ideas, questions or curiosities I feel I’ve been able to incorporate my persona into the way I approach clients and business as a whole.
Standout NC experiences
My time at NC had a huge impact on how my career was shaped. I completed my work term on-site at the Teaching Winery and [Teaching] Brewery which allowed me to ‘test the waters’ in the beverage industry to really see if it was a good fit for me or not. As it turns out it was a great fit! My experience with the Teaching Winery and [Teaching] Brewery really allowed me to understand the beverage consumer better, get a grasp on all the beginnings of a career in beverage alcohol (conducting tastings, tours, vineyard management and the brewing process) as well as a general understanding of the marketing behind beverage and the economics of both wine and beer.
One of the most memorable experiences from my time at NC was our class trip to Walt Disney World (Florida). I had to save every penny I made in order to get myself on the trip, and I can say every hour worked was well worth it. This trip allowed me to see one of the most impressive examples of hospitality and tourism in the world. It was my first time visiting Disney (while I hope it won’t be the last), and every moment was magic. The learnings I was able to take home with me while participating in the Disney Leadership Program primed the way I look at leadership as a whole. Easily one of the best experiences thus far in my career.
When we talk of ‘who’ stood out from my time at NC, I have to acknowledge all of my professors. While I spent more time with some than others, they all imparted wisdom on me. Having teachers that truly cared for my success and allowed me to try new things until something clicked within me, was a huge factor in me finding an industry that I love.
Janet Jakobsen was a key influence to me in her ability to connect with me not just as a student but on a professional level pre- and post-graduation. Damian Goulbourne and Brian Beccario were our NC guides while at Disney, which allowed me to form closer ties with them; however, I have to say all of my professors had a hand in guiding my successes and navigating my failures.
Career words of wisdom
The advice I would give to prospective students would be take every opportunity you are handed and please step outside of your comfort zone.
In grade school/high-school I never would have imagined I could speak publicly the way I can now. The first few times I was nervous and scared because it was outside of my comfort zone, I can confidently say now it was worth it.
What it takes to make it in the field… I would say it takes courage and honesty above all. We all make mistakes and mistakes will happen; this is a guarantee. We must own them and learn from them. Be upfront, ask questions and seek answers. Be prepared for this industry to take you on a journey. Tourism is not a small industry and there are tons of pathways you can take. Try everything out once, be open to change and most of all remember to find your sense of self. There is a huge difference between confidence and cocky.
One quote I have always lived by from the incredible Maya Angelou is, “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” Above everything, treat yourself and others with kindness, trust that the rest will fall into place.
