Biography
Katie got her start in digital marketing and advertising in 2006 and hasn’t looked back. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, she enjoys working closely with clients to build strategic media plans that deliver results. Katie lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with her husband (Brian) and two children.
A few words from Katie:
Where I’m from:
I am originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan. I moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2003 to attend GVSU. Grand Rapids is such an amazing city, I just never felt the need to leave.
My schooling and major:
I graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2006 with an undergraduate degree in public relations and a minor in art and design. I also went on to earn my master’s degree in communications in 2011.
About myself:
I consider myself an easy-going person. I love spending time with my family and friends, camping and traveling, golfing in the summer with my husband in our couple’s golf league, and just generally looking for a fun time wherever I go. I have two kiddos who definitely keep me on my toes. Watching them grow into little people with their own personalities and interests is so much fun!
What I like to do outside of the office:
Summers in Michigan are far too short, so I feel that I must cram all my vacation time into those three short months. Our family loves camping and cottaging in northern Michigan. We are also big Disney fans and make a point to go as much as we can. Now that my daughters are older, I am hoping to make Disney a yearly trip (although my husband does not know this yet 😉). Outside of traveling, I enjoy reading, exercising and binge watching whatever the newest trending show might be.
My favorite movie:
Now that I have kids, my favorite movies have shifted a bit into Disney’s realm (or maybe now I just have permission to openly admit that). If you haven’t seen Encanto, you must check it out!
My work experience:
I started at a digital marketing agency in 2006 straight out of college, and worked my way up to a Director over 13+ years. I have experience in digital marketing (primarily display, search, social), however, I have also gained additional experience during my time at a public relations firm where I was able to learn some new skills centered around content strategy/development, including organic social media, community management and social media listening.
My role at Digital Kairoi:
Chad and Timm invited me in as a partner and I couldn’t be happier to join the team! My role at Digital Kairoi will include strategic media planning, campaign management, data analysis and optimization. I will also work closely with clients to measure campaign success while continuing to develop new strategy based on their goals.
Why I’m excited to join this team:
I have known Chad and Timm for over a decade now and worked closely with them on many projects over the years. They are both wonderful people and there is a level of mutual respect and trust between us. We each bring different skillsets to the table and truly even each other out. I know we will make a great team!
What keeps me motivated:
I like to surround myself with people who are positive and can keep an open mind. As I am sure many would say, these last couple years have really reframed what I feel is important to me both professionally and personally. Choosing to stay in a positive mindset and prioritizing how my energy is spent on a daily basis contributes to my drive and motivation.
In closing:
I am so excited to be a part of Digital Kairoi and I hope we get the chance to work together soon! Please reach out to me any time, I would love to connect.