Getting a glimpse of what integrated marketing communications (IMC) looks like in the ‘real’ world was the goal today as the IMC graduate class visited both Quarry Communications and Home Hardware Stores Ltd. in St. Jacobs.
The students were treated to snapshots of what the daily life of an agency can be like as they listened to a project manager, graphic designer, media planner, web developer, and marketing operations manager discuss their jobs, their priorities and the tools they use to meet cleint expectations at Quarry. They heard how teams involving designers, copywriters, strategists, and project managers meet to collaborate on client work. It was a view into the agency side of the business. (and Steve and Kim were delighted to reconnect with IMC grad Michelle MacNaughton who works as a Project Lead at Quarry!)
At Home Hardware the class heard from the client side of the business. Jessica Keupfer, Manager of Public Relations, told the students about the collaboration between marketing, sales, advertising and public relations at the Canadian retailer. The company recently changed its tagline to “Home Hardware, Here’s How”, as a measure to more effectively reach a broader market – not just home owners, but anyone living in any kind of owned or rented accommodation that needs home improvement. She also provided some insight into the process behind the scenes of a Globe and Mail recent “Report on Business” article about Home Hardware.
Quarry generously provided their lunch area for the class to enjoy some Pop’s Pizza
Alan Quarry, CEO, chatted with the group about “Heart Beats Hate”, a pro-diversity, anti-bigotry rally he initiated. It will be held at Maxwell’s Concerts & Events, 35 University Ave. E. in Waterloo on Tuesday, Sept. 19. There will be speakers from the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre along with music and food. He encouraged the class to attend. He reminded them racism exists when we are silent.
Integrated Communications 