Alumni Spotlight: Katie Owens

Posted March 4, 2022

Name: Katie Owens

Graduation year: 2006

Degree(s): B.S. Science, Technology and Culture (STAC) — Communications

Current Position Title, Company, and Location: Assistant Vice President, Corporate Communications and Marketing; Sagicor Life Insurance Company; Tampa, Florida

 

What does a typical day at your job look like?

Before getting ready for work, I go over my list of priorities, both professionally and personally.

From a workload perspective, my days are generally half meetings and half strategic work. Strategic work can entail anything from writing communications on behalf of our company to meeting with corporate and community partners to discuss ways that we can expand our brand while also enhancing the lives of the people in the communities in which we operate.

As a member of the executive team, I’m responsible for leading lots of different areas within the organization — internal/external communications, brand marketing, demand generation (B2B and B2C), market research, public/community relations, crisis communication, product planning, social media, websites, traditional and digital marketing, sponsorships, partnerships, and advertising. That’s why I start and end my day by checking my priority list to ensure I’ve accomplished what I’ve set out to do.

What’s the most exciting part about your work?

I love seeing others happy. And, fortunately, I’m in the unique position to see it very regularly. As a leader on the Community Volunteer and Employee Events Committees, I’m able to manage and develop engaging programs that not only make a difference and recognize our team members, but I’m also heavily involved in our community initiatives that impact the lives of thousands and thousands of families, friends, and neighbors.

The work I do isn’t solely product-focused, it’s also about making a difference — for our employees and our communities.

How did you find your job/what’s the best resource for jobs or networking you’ve found?

A recruiter reached out to me about this position, and I decided to find out more about the opportunity. After interviewing for almost six months with executive team and board members, I was offered the position and graciously accepted it.

With regard to job resources, I’ve found that LinkedIn is a very effective way to get recruited and learn about other people in various industries. In addition, I think it’s incredibly important to get involved in your community. I sit on a few boards, and I’m also part of several leadership organizations. Combined with the power of LinkedIn, I’m very connected locally and nationally. I highly recommend looking for organizations to join in order to expand your network.

What’s the most surprising detour you’ve taken from your career path? What did you learn from it?

I’ve luckily been on the same career path of communications and marketing since graduating from Georgia Tech, but I didn’t necessarily know what industry I would work in. I’ve worked in the restaurant, sports, housing, healthcare, benefits, and financial services industries. And the best thing about communications and marketing is that it doesn’t matter where you work — your skills are easily transferable to any company. Overall, I think it’s important to broaden your horizons in order to determine what industry you want to work in.

How did studying in the School of LMC impact your career?

The best part of getting an LMC degree at Tech is that you’re able to choose your path for the future. I’ve always been passionate about marketing and communications, so I took courses and interned to know every single aspect in these fields.

What skills did you learn during your studies that contribute to your daily life?

I regularly use the Adobe Creative Suite and video-editing software, which were both part of my major courses that I took at Tech. From a skillset perspective, I’ve always been data-driven and analytical, and going to Tech helped me strengthen those proficiencies. Now, I use data regularly to make informed decisions on our marketing programs and initiatives.  

What advice would you give to current LMC students and fellow alumni?

To current LMC students: Take as many courses as possible to help determine your passion. This will give you a well-rounded view and help you later in the business world. And make sure you intern or co-op. Get in front of employers early, so that you can see which industry you want to explore. It’s all about who you know.

To fellow alumni: Don’t ever settle. We graduated from Georgia Tech. Not only did we get accepted, but we “got out.” If we were able to accomplish that feat, then we can do anything.
 

Can LMC students and fellow alumni contact you to chat and network?

Absolutely. I love hearing from fellow students and alumni! Feel free to connect with me via LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/katieowens323). And be sure to let me know how we’re connected!

What are some things you can speak to?

Over my life and career, I have been afforded the opportunity to travel the world, experience different cultures, and learn about various parts of billion-dollar organizations. I’ve had, and still have, amazing mentors in my life that continue to offer advice and guidance, and I want to be able to continue to help others as well.

I’m a champion, problem-solver, friend, competitor, chef, and mentor. I know what it’s like to start out and constantly work your way to the top — it’s not always easy, but if you’re focused, dedicated, and prepared, you can achieve anything you set out to do.

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