This year’s group of DMN 40Under40 winners have a few things in common. Well yes, they’re under 40. Also they have a proven track record of marketing excellence and leadership, whether they’re in roles supporting global brands, or leading their own thriving start-ups. Over the next few weeks, you’ll get to know our winners, and what they’ve accomplished.
Ed Harris is the Chief Marketing Officer at Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board.
What has been your proudest career accomplishment to date?
My proudest career achievement has been seeing people I’ve managed over the years at the various organizations I’ve been lucky to work at grow into leaders and accomplish great things. I’m also very proud of my current staff’s teamwork and success, winning over 20 marketing industry awards over the past two years.
What’s the best piece of advice you can give to future 40Under40 honorees?
Doors have a way of opening up for you throughout your career journey. Be willing to walk through and see what’s on the other side. Look for ways to learn and grow constantly. Never settle. A well rounded marketing person with a variety of experience tends to enjoy more success than someone with a limited perspective.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years?
I enjoy giving back when I can. One night a week I teach marketing in the business school at a local university. It’s something I started doing 6 years ago and I enjoy sharing my career lessons. I’m at the stage where I’d like to accomplish writing a “real world” marketing book that could compliment the standard marketing principles textbook that is required.
What is one interesting fact about you that few people know?
In high school I took “advanced visual arts” and defended NBA legend Kobe Bryant in a basketball game when our team played against his high school team in 1996.
Click here to learn more about the DMN 40Under40 Awards.
