I’ve been honored to serve as the leader of ADsmith Marketing & Advertising for the past 23 years, and much like my late father, I am not a person content to sit still for long, so I am not ready to consider slowing down just yet.
Leadership Lessons
I am incredibly fortunate to have had two strong role models in business leadership. My parents, Dennis and Carolyn Smith, ran Central Printing—a business they bought from my grandparents in 1970—and nurtured it until their retirement in 1995. The honorable way they conducted business left a profound, resounding impact that continues today. I can think of no better tribute to their memory than upholding those values that governed the way they approached work.
They taught me the importance of taking pride in my work, conducting business with integrity, and, perhaps most importantly, building and maintaining meaningful relationships with both professionals and clients. It was a lesson in the value of cultivating long-term partnerships and the power of personal connections.
Leadership Style
The core values I inherited from my parents have been instrumental in shaping my leadership style at ADsmith. I believe that giving back to the community is a fundamental responsibility, a philosophy that was also deeply influenced by my parents. That’s why I’ve been actively involved in various nonprofit boards and have encouraged our team to engage with the community as well. To me, fostering a work environment where employees feel valued and have a stake in the company’s future is vital. This sense of community within the ADsmith family not only ensures employee satisfaction but also contributes to our firm’s continued success.
My career journey has been a rollercoaster of experiences and learning opportunities. I served as Vice President at Young & Company for nearly nine years before venturing into Greene Marketing, Perkin Marketing, and finally TPS Media Group, where I became a Partner/Vice President. It was from these experiences that the idea for ADsmith took shape. Each step of this journey was marked by hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Beyond my professional achievements, my leadership style is a reflection of my core beliefs. I advocate for a work-life balance that allows our team to savor the fruits of their labor. It’s not just about working hard but also about enjoying the rewards and moments of joy. Creating a sense of community within the ADsmith family is a priority for me, and it’s this aspect that forms the foundation of our thriving company culture.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
To aspiring leaders, my message would be that success isn’t solely about profits and business acumen. It’s also about giving back, nurturing relationships, and creating a work environment where employees feel valued and inspired. I believe that a successful leader is not just someone who leads but also someone who listens, not just someone who achieves but also someone who gives, and not just someone who excels but also someone who helps others shine.
ADsmith Marketing & Advertising has seen a lot of change and growth over its 23 years, and I along with it. It’s a journey that underscores the significance of core values, community engagement, and employee well-being in the realm of business. I’ve been inspired by the wonderful people I’ve had the privilege to work with, and I am deeply grateful for the journey we’ve shared. With the right values and a heart dedicated to giving back, success in business can be a profoundly meaningful experience.
