KIM Lee, former head of marketing at Trade Winds Citrus Limited, is on a new career path as the channel marketing manager at telecommunications giant LIME Jamaica.

This week, Lee, a woman who has been involved in marketing for over a decade, and who has been in this current job seven months, offers an insight into her new career choice.

Who is a channel marketing manager?

As head of channel marketing, I am part of a team that supports the various arms of our corporate and retail business with marketing initiatives. My team and I are responsible for the overall experience our customers have at key points.

My value to the company is not just delivering the goals they have set, but inspiring others to fly with me. These goals include ensuring that every LIME customer gets a first world experience every time they come through our doors and connect with us.

What do you enjoy the most about your career?

The thrill of the chase.

What about responsibilities?

My responsibilities include creating new ways to connect, support and reinforce our connections with our consumers on the different levels of our business spectrum.

What qualifications are required for your job?

Flexibility, motivation, persistence, a clear understanding of how to communicate. You need experience, knowledge, creativity, patience and of course, a college degree.

What are some of the challenges you face on the job?

Every company doing business in this economic climate has challenges. The challenges I face are no different than those of another company of this nature. It has been both exciting and challenging, but I welcome each challenge with an open mind. I love seeing what I do come to life. I eat, sleep and dream what I do. This kind of connection is important because whatever you love, you will put your all into.

What sparked your interest in marketing?

My career in marketing happened by accident with the FAME Fraternity. My journey with marketing started with the management of the FAME Fraternity and it has grown into what it is today. I was intrigued by the studio and having my voice on the airwaves. I truly envisioned doing that job until I was old and grey, because it was the one profession where I was judged by what I said and how I sounded rather than how I looked. At least that’s what I thought when I was in college.

What advice do you have for anyone who wants to become a channel marketing manager?

You need to be a marketer to the core. Every experience you have, what you watch on television, read, absorb through social media, are all building blocks. Never assume that you know your customer, because their experiences colour how they see your products. Sometimes it’s good to just be a fly on the wall, so to speak, and just observe.