Chevrolet’s diversity advertising manager, Ayana Jordan, is a stellar example of what it means to a successful business executive. The Spelman alumna fully understands and embraces the key elements to achieving success, which include a sound education, work-life balance and a keen sense of respect for those who paved the way for the countless opportunities that present themselves today.
Jordan took a moment to share with rolling out the details of Chevrolet’s demonstrated commitment to honoring heroism and togetherness through the “Table of Brotherhood Project.” The dynamic professional also shared how Chevrolet’s nurturing environment has inspired her to be productive in her career while simultaneously living a deeply fruitful life.
–munson steed
What was the inspiration for the Table of Brotherhood project?
Dr. King is the [inspiration] behind the Table of Brotherhood Project. He stated that one day we would sit together at “the table of brotherhood.”When Chevrolet was asked to help bring awareness to the momentous occasion — the unveiling of the Washington D.C. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial, we were truly honored and wanted to build a program that brought the community together in honor of Dr. King’s legacy.
Why is the conversation at the table with thought leaders from around the country important?
Many of our communities are in turmoil for one reason or another. It is time that we begin to bridge the gaps, communicate with our youth and simply inspire those who have been spectators to take action. It truly takes a village [and] we need those who have a voice to take their place and help guide us to a better future, a better reality.
Why has Chevy taken such a progressive approach to the MLK project?
We are a progressive brand that believes in everyday heroism. We are a brand that believes in community and inspiring others. This is our expression of celebration, honoring a man who was quite obviously an everyday hero.
What is the mind-set of those invited to participate in the project?
I am happy to say that there isn’t one mind-set. What is the common thread? Hope of a better tomorrow, recognition that something must change and the determination to see change.
How did you go about selecting your moderator?
Roland Martin represents Dr. King’s dream. We needed a man who was respected in the community, a man who believed in Dr. King’s dream. The cherry on top is that he also happens to be an Alpha. It is because of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity that the memorial is in existence today.
What should the world know about Chevrolet?
Chevrolet believes that you cannot separate our brand values, our products or our consumers. We believe all three share certain values including; confidence, a youthful spirit and a true authenticity.
Why should a consumer consider purchasing a Chevy?
We build great products for consumers. Our consumers are confident, authentic and young at heart. If you share those values, we have a product for you.
What vehicles are symbolic of where the new Chevy brand shines and surpasses the competition?
The Equinox, the Cruze and the Sonic are just a few examples. The Chevrolet Equinox is such a quality vehicle. It was crafted to be luxurious inside and out. When you get inside any one of these vehicles, the sleek interior and technology will force you to reconsider our brand. Chevrolet is assuring that when you drive our product, it is a reflection of you.
What is an average day like for you?
I am up at 6:10 a.m. so that I can get things ready for the day. After I am ready, I get my daughter to school. My mornings with her are really important. The office is a whirlwind of meetings, calls and the ever-present BlackBerry. My day never wraps. I take my work home, but I do go home at a reasonable time so that I can run, get dinner prepared and spend time with my family.
What is your advice for young professionals who are considering marketing positions in the auto industry?
Listen! You don’t know everything. Pay attention! You can set your own path if you are observant. Be respectful! That person you just can’t seem to get along with may hold your next promotion in their hand. Stay true to who you are. They hired you because they want and need you. You don’t have to be vanilla to be successful.
What have you learned while working on the Chevy brand that has meant the most to you professionally?
Chevy is a large brand and it takes a lot of strategic thinking to build dynamic plans that begin to shift image measures. I have learned to be more strategic than ever. I have also learned that having a great team of people is crucial. My agency teams are simply dynamic!
Please describe some of your career highlights.
The GMC integration on “The Game.” I had to push to make it happen. The integration was top of the line.
[The] NOLA takeover was one of the best grassroots programs I have executed. Our goal was to create an experience that would capture the hearts and minds of African American women. I believe we were successful.
How do you balance family and career?
I live my life in balance. If everything at the office is in check, but my family feels neglected — I am out of whack.
My goal is to keep my family first and be the best advertising manager possible. I am passionate about both. I expend a lot of energy maintaining the balance.
Who are your mentors and how have they helped your professional growth?
I have been blessed to have mentors throughout my entire career. Individuals who took a vested interest in me, early in my career [and set] a solid foundation for my journey. Tesa Aragones, John Gasloli, Amy Gushman, Karen Marderosian and Todd Riley were crucial in the first season of my career.
In the second season I met Mary Kubitskey, [Chevrolet’s national ad manager]. She is the reason I have this position today. She trusted me and believed in my work. As a result, she pushed for me to get my current position. I will always be grateful for those who believe in me and want to see me succeed.
College played a big role in your success. Why should young people stay in school and go to college?
Many doors are not open to young people who don’t have college degrees. Don’t put limits on yourself — use college to propel you into the future.
Do you pull all-nighters to prepare for work?
Never did and I never will. I am not a procrastinator, I believe in getting organized and working normal hours. They may be long, but never all night!
How has working on the MLK project affected you?
It makes you remember that I if not for those before me, I would not have the opportunities I do today. Someone cared enough about my future to change the world — I must do the same for future generations.
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
I love a sandy beach vacation. I enjoy them on my girls [only] trips, with my husband and with the whole family.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy running, and building photo books on Shutterfly is so fulfilling to me. Reading is something else I truly enjoy.
What books are you reading now to stay sharp?
I read for an escape. I just finished The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo. I just started the second book of the trilogy.
Video: Ayana Jordan talks about template-based proposals
