MEMBER SPOTLIGHT | IVOIRE LLOYD
Posted on Feb. 19, 2024 / Member Spotlight / Subscribe 0
"Never Stop Learning”
Are you considering joining a committee or getting more involved in SMPS-NY? Hear more from Ivoire Lloyd on how participating and leading our SMPS-NY Education/Professional Development committee has enhanced her skills professionally and brought personal fulfillment.
Tell us about yourself – where do you work and what is your role?
I’m Ivoire Lloyd: BizDev Champ, Proposal Pundit℠, HBCU Grad 💚💛 '04, Marketing Maven, Community Service Aficionado, Children's Book Author, Board Member x 4, Mom x 2. My specialties include RFP Coordination, Marketing & Communications, Business Development, Creative Writing, Social Media, Public Relations, community service, and learning new things everyday!
I am a member of:
- COMTO New York (Secretary - Board of Directors)
- SMPS-NY (Director of Education/Past Chair of Professional Development)
- YPT - Greater NYC Chapter (Director of Social Media)
- Black Marketers Association of America
- APMP Liberty
- International Business Development Professionals (IBDP) New York
I am a volunteer with NY Cares, FreeArts NYC, NAACP - Williamsbridge Branch and I am a mentor. I have published several articles for various organizations and have presented on various proposals and professional development topics. I've also published my first children’s book.
I’m from The Bronx (native New Yorker here) so I am an avid mass transit user. I am the Director of Business Development at EXP, an A/E firm headquartered in Chicago, with multiple offices and over 4,000 employees. I am responsible for pursuit strategies, fostering and developing teaming relationships, and business development to assist EXP as they grow in the Northeast.
How did you get into marketing?
I graduated from my beloved HBCU, Norfolk State University 20 years ago. My major was Journalism and Advertising, with a minor in Marketing. I’ve always had a knack for creative writing, as well as an ability to think quickly with creative tactics. Nearly all of my jobs after college had a writing capacity, so I flourished where my talents & passions were best utilized. I love the relationships and connections that I’ve gained since starting in A/E/C and Transportation back in 2015.
Can you talk about a project or initiative you’re currently working on? What do you like most about it?
As Director of Business Development of EXP, one initiative is the development of our strategic plan as EXP grows in the Northeast region. Being active in the industry and staying connected to people that I’ve developed relationships with and friendships over the years has been a tremendous benefit, both professionally and personally. I enjoy the ease of connecting on a business and personal level with people that I’ve been working with for years.
How long have you been a member of SMPS? How did you get introduced to the organization, and what do you think is the biggest benefit about being a member?
I’ve been a member of SMPS since 2018 but took time off when I had my first child. Since then, I’ve been extremely grateful for the networking and support that I’ve gained since then. The biggest benefit has been the ability to develop friendships and associations with individuals who are like-minded and as passionate about the industry as I am. Whether we’re teaming partners or on the competitive spectrum, there’s a mutual fondness for marketing and shared experiences that trumps it all.
You’re currently SMPS-NY Director of Education and Past Chair of Professional Development - What impacted your decision to join each committee and what are your takeaways/favorite part about participating?
Being involved in SMPS and other industry organizations has truly opened my eyes to the abundance of available resources that are there to develop professionally (no pun intended). Knowing this, I felt a responsibility to lead and develop programs that accessed the collective knowledge of the organization and shared that wealth of expertise to our members. I am purposeful in my intent to be someone who can reach back and nurture the next generation of marketers, especially for those who may see themselves in me. I enjoy hearing from our members, as well as non-members, on what resources they need to develop and grow in this industry and how the programs we have provided have helped them.
How has SMPS-NY helped you perform in your professional roles and how did it help your professional career? Any impact to your personal interests?
SMPS-NY has helped me enhance my ability to think outside the box as well as provide opportunities to further develop my project management skills. I address every new and potential program as a new project and define the strategies and goals accordingly. From finding speakers, keeping attendees engaged, and overall planning with my committee members, I love the thrill of strategic planning and a successful event once complete. I also love event planning and logistics, so combining that with marketing in this industry is an added bonus. Lastly, I was named SMPS-NY Marketer of the Year for 2023. It was an honor to be recognized for my professional achievements by my peers and be able to celebrate with them.
Do you have any advice for other members who want to join an SMPS committee/program?
My advice would be just Do IT. I highly encourage people to find their niche and join a committee whose mission is mutually beneficial to their personal and professional goals. While we’re all busy in our paid day jobs/career, the contributions, and the feeling of having pride in your overall personal accomplishments is an amazing feeling once executed successfully. It’s like leaving a mini-legacy behind. Having been able to rebrand the Coordinators Club to the A/E/C Movers and Shakers Corner would not have happened had I not been given the task, stepped up and brainstormed. The opportunities are there, if you just put yourself out there.
What are some of your interests outside of the marketing world?
I love to cook, try new restaurants, visit family and friends, take in a good book, and travel. I also sit on three Boards related to the A/E/C and Transportation Industry, and I’ve been elected to the Board of a non-profit Health Care clinic. So, in case it’s not obvious, I love volunteering. I also enjoy the random get-togethers with my sister circle where we can decompress and have moments of clarity over a good meal. In addition to all of this, my two daughters keep me busy with their various activities. My oldest (age 5) takes tap and ballet and she is super active with her blossoming modeling career. Any time I see her pictures published; I get to beam with proud parent pride! My 3-year-old is coming into her own with her swim classes.
Lastly, do you have any advice for someone starting out their career in AEC marketing?
Get Involved! Sign up for our regular Education webinars. They can help you learn more about your areas of expertise or be utilized as an opportunity to gain knowledge in other areas of the industry. When possible, attend in-person networking events, such as the many that SMPS-NY hosts. This will help you put a name to some of the faces you might see online and give you opportunities to build your network and maybe even develop friendships. I would also suggest reaching out and connecting with people with respectful and clear intentions. Two years ago, I sent a random message to Kim Thompkins (SMPS ATL) based on an article that she wrote, and now she is one of my mentors. Also, Be Kind! This industry is very small. I also preach that closed mouths don’t get fed, so basically never be afraid to ask questions and speak up. Always ask “When do you need it by?” Lastly, never stop learning.
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