Profession: Ken Rye, North American account director, The Integer Group
Alter Ego: Ken Rye, executive producer, Hot Ice Entertainment Group
What inspires you to show up at work every day?
I have a passion for learning and living which I’m really fortunate to get through both my work and my hobbies. A long-time ago, I had a few friends and mentors that inspired me to try to make a living off the things that I enjoy naturally. That way, work is not a labor; it’s strictly a love. I wake up everyday looking forward to the opportunity to be bigger, better and smarter than the day before. It’s only an ideal but worth it for the motivation.
How did you determine your career path?
In retrospect, I was lucky to have internships: one in radio at WGCI AM/FM and the other in advertising at Burrell Communications Group in Chicago. My mother was a journalist and gave me incredible exposure to the world of Chicago arts, science, politics, media and black business. It stuck with me as an imprint; and radio, advertising and marketing have been with me ever since. When I came down to Atlanta to attend Morehouse College, this was fertile ground to pursue so many of my dreams. Ultimately, the international influence of Atlanta as a transportation, retail, media, and cultural hub now have me striving for success via more global platforms.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
Radio, marketing, advertising, technology, retail, supply chain management, procurement, sales, journalism, media, public relations, manufacturing and telecommunications.
Describe the future skill sets that are essential to future business leader and innovators.
Being able to have a local view for global business. Years ago, Thomas L. Friedman projected that “The World Is Flat” attempting to give us a heads up that the future is grounded in globalization and that ultimately technology made it much more accessible. Ever since, it’s been fun for me to be able to work with global clients who have operations that expand from the U.S. to Asia, Europe, Africa, Canada, Australia, etc. Periodically, I had a chance to visit places like the Philippines, Brazil, Montreal, the Caribbean and the U.K. for global business opportunities. Even now, the support that I provide for my main client, Michelin, spans from America to Europe.
Define innovation methods you apply to your business and life.
I’m a data hound and passionate about the things I believe in. It means that I try to put as much preparation into exploring my ideals as possible. Some of my best mentors stressed the importance of executing only according to focused, disciplined strategy. Prep for the outcome that you want and you can get to it. Have faith in God. He’s empowered you to pursue your inspirations and to make them real.
Describe goal setting methods you use and how do you evaluate you success?
As long as the family is OK, I’m earning a living and I get to have some great experiences along the way, I’m good. I should probably set my sights a little hire.
Community success based on what you do in the community means what to you?
For me, I have always been fortunate to have jobs or clients that allowed me to focus efforts into the community. Through programs like car safety, home safety, instructional technology and others, we had a chance to develop affinity programs or community initiatives that had a positive impact on the community.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
It’s transforming everything that I do. As a marketer, I am increasingly challenged to deliver content, products and services at the rate that people are accessing them through technology. With the training programs and social media campaigns that I develop, it’s all about organic engagement through technology.
What software and tool of technology apps include has made the biggest difference in you life?
Google Maps and Delta airlines’ boarding pass app. Sorry, it’s true…
What role does music and cultural events do to define your self-identity?
It’s where I draw quite a bit of my motivation from. I am fortunate that I get the bug from my younger years so I expect it everywhere I go. I have always believed music and culture are great foundations to bring people together as well. Of course, I’m a festival producer, promoter, artist manager and booking agent from time-to-time; so I also respect the business of the industry as well and get the best of both worlds. I see lots of folks have a genuinely great time and others make a living of it at the same time.
Describe your favorite vacation spot.
I enjoy the Caribbean and the U.K. but I don’t know that I have found my favorite spot yet.
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
I’d make it easier for everyone to make a living or at least have adequate support to at least have a shot at it.
If you could change one thing about your self what would it be?
Eternal health and wisdom…
