People You Should Know: Katie Harris
Katie Harris, Director of Communications Strategy, Knorr Marketing Communications
JOB DESCRIPTION: As a senior member of the KMC team, I am responsible for marketing communications solutions for clients, including writing, design, and media and public relations.
AGE: 34 YEARS LIVED IN COLUMBIA: 27 ORIGINAL HOMETOWN: Rochester, Minn. (if this counts – I was born there and lived there only three weeks).
EDUCATION: Hickman High School, 1993; Drake University, bachelor’s degree in English and psychology, summa cum laude, 1997; George Mason University, master of fine arts degree in creative writing, 2000.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: I’m the current chair of the Cultural Affairs Commission for the City of Columbia and a member of Missouri United Methodist Church. Past involvement includes YouZeum Starlight Bike Ramble Committee member; United Way Marketing Committee member, University of Missouri System; and Kappa Kappa Gamma Advisory Board member, Theta Chapter.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: After earning my master’s degree, I stayed in the D.C. area and worked as a publications manager for the Association of Writers and Writing Programs. I returned to Columbia in 2001 and began working for the University of Missouri System as a senior information specialist and editor of Spectrum. I became communications coordinator in 2005, with responsibilities for design, editing and speechwriting for the president and members of the board of curators. I joined Knorr Marketing Communications in 2008 as a marketing communications specialist.
A COLUMBIA BUSINESSPERSON I ADMIRE AND WHY: This one may seem obvious, but I admire Wendy Knorr for following her dream and checking off a goal from her “to do” list – starting her own business. I also admire John Ott for his incredible vision for downtown Columbia and for being able to see how important historic preservation is to maintaining our culture. And finally, Marie Hunter of the Office of Cultural Affairs is a tireless advocate for the arts in our city and our lives.
WHY I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT MY JOB: Joining KMC was one of the best career decisions I ever made. I’m able to work with a variety of clients – from Coil Construction to the YouZeum – in an environment that is flexible, professional and focused on integrity. Our tagline – “Your partner. Not your agency.” – is suggestive of our goal of becoming an extension of our clients’ businesses.
IF I WEREN’T DOING THIS FOR A LIVING, I WOULD: …be writing a book of short stories or a children’s book or somehow be involved in real estate (I am addicted to House Hunters!).
BIGGEST CAREER OBSTACLE I’VE OVERCOME AND HOW: Finding the work-life balance as a working mom. I’m lucky to have an employer who recognizes that a work-life balance is good for everyone.
A FAVORITE RECENT PROJECT: KMC recently had about a week to create a Web site for Cupp Chevrolet in Marceline, Mo., one of 1,100 GM dealerships that received a letter notifying them of possible termination next year. After an aggressive public relations campaign, Cupp was one of about 80 dealers in the U.S. chosen to remain active. It’s nice to have played a small part in keeping a family business going.
WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THIS PROFESSION: There can be great satisfaction in seeing a project all the way through, from conception to completed, tangible product.
WHAT I DO FOR FUN: During the summer, I enjoy gardening and hanging out at the toddler pool at Southwest Swim Club with Grace. Reading, watching movies, traveling and eating out also are favorite pastimes – although all that has changed with the addition of a child.
FAMILY: My husband, Jeff, and daughter, Grace, 21 months. I’m also blessed to have both my parents, Michael and Nancy Perry, and in-laws, Bob and Jerry Harris, in town – I couldn’t do it all without their support.
FAVORITE PLACE IN COLUMBIA: Home.