Jay Woods
DTLR Business Development Manager
What inspires you to show up at work everyday?
The opportunity to create something new and never before seen among our consumers. I work on bringing brands to our consumers that may not normally know where or how to reach them.
How did you determine your career path?
I haven’t really. I knew what I liked and always wanted to do something I liked instead of something just for the money. My first job out of college was with Coca-Cola in a marketing training program. From there, I went to the Baltimore Orioles corporate sales department; from there to Sony Music as a regional marketing manager; from there to US Concepts [Agency] working on strategic marketing for Crown Royal, and from there to DTLR Business Development.
Define innovative methods you apply to your business and life.
I like to brainstorm constantly. When we are sitting around the DTLR offices, I will try to inspire open discussions about DTLR initiatives. The discussion may have members from buying, marketing, community outreach, accounting and social media involved. I like to get various views from different people in the organization. They may see something I don’t or can’t see.
Name your favorite role models for success in two industries.
I would have to say Russell Simmons, because he does things on his own terms. He never doubts his gut feeling; that’s hard to do.
Second, I would have to say Tyler Perry’s work ethic and use of intellectual property is unmatched by anyone in the 21st century. Tyler has figured out a way to get paid from the same project 3-4 times over. He can start with a play, turn it into a book, then turn that into a movie and then finally make it into a TV show.
What software and technology apps have made the biggest difference in your life?
Microsoft Outlook: being able to schedule things simultaneously among co-workers, partners and peers.
Facebook has also been a tremendous help with staying in touch with good contacts.
What role do music and culture play in your identity?
Hip-hop is everything. I am the original hip-hop generation. It came about during my time and still guides me now. I love the bold stance and individual creativity the lifestyle provides.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Jamaica
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
End racism, have everyone compete on an equal level.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
Stop procrastinating.
