Member Spotlight | Megan Hinrichsen
Posted by [email protected] on Sep. 27, 2021 / Subscribe 0
SMPS Member Spotlight – Megan Hinrichsen, Development Strategies
As the Marketing Director, I manage and lead all aspects of marketing, including strategic planning, proposals, presentations, award submissions and teaming opportunities. In addition, we view our final report deliverables to clients as an extension to marketing, so I am heavily involved in the look of and functionality of our work products. My ability to streamline complex messages and create relevant graphics improves the visual presentation and understanding of our reports – ultimately allowing the firm to deliver engaging and informative work products that appeal to diverse audiences.
My involvement with SMPS St. Louis started seven years ago when I reached out to Amanda Bohnert for coffee to discuss her experience with the chapter. I knew that jumping into volunteer work was the best way to maximize my experience as a new member so I joined the programs and education committee. Shortly thereafter, I received a scholarship to the Build Business conference which further bolstered by connections with members and enhanced my understanding of the national organization and local chapters. I’ve been fortunate to serve five years on the local Board of Directors in the positions of Programs Director, Education Director, President-Elect and President. I’m currently the Past-President.
What are your thoughts about being president last year especially since 2020 turned everything on its side and 2021 was spent trying to figure what is normal? What do you think were the most outstanding parts of the year?
Last year was challenging for a myriad of reasons, as everyone knows. Since the health and safety of our members was paramount, we continued virtual programming through summer 2021. The 2020-21 board was focused on enhancing value to our members despite the challenges presented due to COVID – we introduced new professional development scholarships, offered a new member scholarship, maximized the virtual landscape by promoting programs from other chapters, maintained our sponsorships, grew our member base during the height of the pandemic, welcomed new committee members, offered unique programs and continued to further marketing and business development efforts within the AEC community. I’m extremely proud of our collective drive to give back to our members, resiliency and the many accomplishments we achieved.
What do you think makes the St. Louis Chapter so unique?
The wonderful members within our chapter are our greatest asset. Everyone has always been willing to help – whether that means making a business introduction, offering feedback on an idea, assisting with an initiative or having a mini marketing therapy/venting session over coffee.
Do you remember who your first SMPS 'friend' when you started coming to events? Have you remained connected through the years?
My first group of friends consisted of Amanda Bohnert, CPSM, Kristyn Newbern, Shane Harris, Carrie Dunn, CPSM and Michelle Yates, CPSM. Carie and Michelle welcomed my invitations to lunch meetings to discuss the CPSM certification and their experience with SMPS. Each person was kind enough to help ease the ‘new member nerves’ by introducing me to other members and engage in conversation at events. As our career responsibilities and interests have changed over the years, our paths don’t cross frequently but I know they are only an email away.
What are the most challenging aspects of your position? Most rewarding aspects of your role?
As a one-person marketing department, a plethora of pressing deadlines, strategic initiates and minutia come across my desk. This variety allows me to utilize my creative and analytical skills across many types of work. While no two days are the same, I’ve learned the importance of scheduling routine tasks and optimizing times of the day when I am most productive. Since working for Development Strategies for over 12 years, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact and ripple effect that our work products have had on developments, communities and cities nationwide. Our work has helped usher in millions of dollars of private and public investment, addressed critical housing and economic disparities and challenged communities to become better for their residents.
What do you think the best thing about St. Louis is?
The best thing about St. Louis and surrounding communities is their robust event offerings for weekend fun and great variety of independent restaurants and shops for unique customer experiences. Most weekends, however, I’m traveling around town for my kids’ sporting events or activities so I enjoy other local offerings on a limited basis.
What was your childhood dream job?
As a child, I wanted a job that helped others – and I think in some way, I’ve fulfilled that. Working for an urban planning company – or AEC company in general – our work enhances the lives of more people than we often realize. The projects we plan, support and help bring to fruition become catalyst developments and economic drivers in communities, improving access to jobs, housing and retail.
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