On Taking Action And Finding Time To Recharge: Emily Reagan, CMO of Texas McCombs
Leading up to our Summer '18 iteration of WORK, we'll feature select interviews with some of our conference's speakers and thought leaders. In this interview, recently appointed CMO of Texas McCombs Emily Reagan discusses her own concepts of balance and leadership. Click here for the full conference schedule.
Who: Emily Reagan is the Chief Marketing Officer at McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas Emily Reagan recently joined McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas as the school's first chief marketing officer. In this role, she is charged with integrating marketing strategy and resources across the school and ensuring the marketing systems, talent and goals are fully aligned with the school's powerful new brand position, Human centered, future focused. As a McCombs alumna, she is excited to bring her marketing skills and passion for education together in this new role. Prior to this position, Reagan was with another well-known Austin brand, Bazaarvoice. She began working there in February 2012, most recently serving as senior vice president of integrated marketing. She has extensive management experience in the marketing field, including holding senior-level positions at Wunderman DC (a WPP agency), Music & Arts (a division of Guitar Center Inc.), RadioShack Corporation and TXU Energy. She is a proven leader in building brands, driving marketing strategies and creating positive customer experiences for both consumer and business-to-business companies.
What she's currently working on: "I’m working on a two- to three-year marketing plan for the Dean. I’m new to this category, and there are so many directions I could go and opportunities to chase, so this is an exercise in focus and prioritization. I want to paint a picture of what’s possible, without biting off more than I can chew!"
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Biased for action.
How would you describe your work / career path?
I’ve put a lot of work into my career via interviews, networking and self-evaluation, so I would describe my career path as intentional. I’ve made each move with purpose, and each step along the way—while not always a great fit—has strengthened me and helped me get to the next opportunity.
How do you approach concepts of "work/life balance?" Does that concept mean anything to you?
For me, achieving balance means finding spaces where my MIND is able to focus on other things besides work. As a singleton with a very analytical and worry-prone mind, I find that work topics can consume all of my mindshare, particularly on evenings and weekends, if I’m not careful. It’s being able to shut down my brain that gives me respite and allows me to recharge.
Could you describe a moment in your career in which you experienced growth? How do you approach that growth?
I’m in one right now, being a first-time CMO. I reach out to my network of friends and experts when I have a challenge I don’t know how to solve, and I like to learn, so I read and talk to a lot of people.
How do you approach working with others?
I have a very collaborative style, and approach each situation with a degree of humility. I’m rarely (if ever) the smartest person in the room on a particular topic. Everyone has something to contribute, so the key is include the right experts on the right projects, so they have an opportunity to shine and be successful.
About WORK: WORK is a biannual pop-up space, designed for sharing new ideas and approaches to creative and entrepreneurial work. The event's panels, workshops and speaker sessions explore personal and professional development, marketing, business management and entrepreneurship. Our next conference pops up on July 14 from 10 AM to 5 PM at Rowling Hall in Austin, Texas. ✨Click here for more information.
