Today’s Notable Young Professional is Amanda Huynh, who’s low-key responsible for your most recent craving for a Guinness or Smirnoff ICE. We caught up with the marketing pro to find out what inspires her work and what advice she would share with other young professionals…
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WORK
Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
I work on the Canadian Guinness and Smirnoff ICE brand teams, creating and implementing national activity to drive awareness and purchase (responsibly).
What was the inspiration for your career route?
In university, I worked part-time as a brand ambassador for a number of experiential agencies and as an operations manager for a nightlife promoter. Both jobs involved gruelling hours and I was constantly running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Often I’d work a trade show for 12 hours, change in the washroom of the club, and get home at 4 a.m. But I loved every minute.
While the setting is more corporate now, what I do hasn’t really changed. I’m still working to connect brands with their targets, driving engagement, and influencing purchase. I just don’t stay out ’til 4 anymore… most nights.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
In 2012, for the first time in seven years, I found myself at Toronto Beer Fest and not in uniform. Instead, I was managing the production of a client’s activation area. Participating in the event from the other side of the bar really brought things full circle for me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
Professionally, I’ll continue developing strategically sound and culturally relevant marketing plans for leading brands. Personally, I’ll be leaning into real estate investment so I have a better excuse to spend time at Home Sense and furniture stores.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Foster relationships and find mentors. It’s crucial to have individuals who can help you see situations from a different perspective and challenge the way you approach things.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
I donate to and volunteered for a number of great organizations with a focus on empowering youth from lower income households.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
I haven’t figured out how to overcome this one yet. I work tirelessly to achieve my goals, at times neglecting to pause and celebrate accomplishments along the way. The pressure I put on myself far outweighs “high expectations Asian father.”
What does the word notable mean to you?
To leave a lasting impression.
PLAY
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
I’m a big fan of Chef Rob Gentile; the burrata and porchetta sandwich from Bar Buca won my heart at first bite.
What’s the most visited website on your Internet browser? The most played song on your phone?
Google. If it doesn’t have the answer, no one does.
Spotify has a playlist for my every mood; these days it’s a lot of 90s hip-hop and RnB.
Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
Murad Osmann – what a visual splendor.
What’s your favourite country to visit and why? And what’s the next one you plan on travelling to?
Hong Kong and Vietnam are on the docket for early 2017.
What gives you the greatest FOMO?
Not being able to eat at all the local favourites when visiting a city.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
It’s a toss-up between my growing shoe collection and my penchant for Champagne.
What’s something you wish you didn’t spend so much money on?
See above.
What’s something you wish you spent more on?
Travel. There are so many local dishes I have yet to discover.
And finally, what does success look like to you? Work, play, or otherwise…
Success is waking up and feeling proud about what you do, both professionally and personally. But it’d be nice to buy shoes without looking at the price tag.
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