The Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Ontario is Canada’s only chapter of SMPS, an organization dedicated to supporting and connecting marketing and business development professionals of the built environment across North America.
Featured Image Credit: Banko Creative Studio
Since the chapter’s founding in 2008, it has benefited from several volunteers contributing their time, ideas, and leadership in support of industry peers and respective employers. SMPS Ontario offers an intimate, professional network for building knowledge and connections, while offering members access to SMPS broader resources and opportunities that have been established since 1973.
Through networking and educational opportunities, the chapter supports marketing professionals to develop the unique expertise, procurement practices, and approaches required to win work in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector. And to keep up with ever-evolving marketing and business environments.
Today, the chapter boasts over eighty official members and even more non-members who regularly engage with events and activities. Together, the group connects for business opportunities and supports each other in their respective careers through mentorship and professional development.
SMPS Ontario also supports professionals in achieving their designation as Certified Professional Services Marketers (CPSM), an indication of marketing knowledge, skills, and experience specific to the AEC sector.
The chapter is now accepting nominations for positions that will become open in September 2024.
“SMPS Ontario is looking for volunteers who are passionate about A/E/C marketing and supporting our community’s professional educational and networking activities! Demonstrate your A/E/C leadership and grow your experience, by nominating yourself or a marketing/business development leader for the SMPS Ontario Board of Directors.
Being a Board Member is an excellent way to contribute to the profession, develop new knowledge and skills, and establish relationships with industry peers. SMPS Ontario depends on Board Members to provide leadership to chapter activities and bring value to its members.”
SMPS Ontario Website
Nominations close April 15, 2024
Volunteering on the Board is a way for marketing and allied professionals to expand their network beyond their day-to-day job and give back to the community.
There are benefits for those at each stage of their career. Establishing new professional relationships, taking on leadership and team responsibilities, and developing new interpersonal skills to name a few. Participation on the Board and Committees expands one’s knowledge marketing approaches and tools, and future career opportunities. SMPS Ontario Board Members and Volunteers build relationships and partnerships with industry leaders, subject matter experts, and allied non-profit organizations that shape the built environment.
Past Board members and volunteers of SMPS Ontario have established themselves as leaders in Ontario’s AEC marketing and business communities. Many now hold Director and C-Suite level positions in local and global firms, while others have founded their own businesses. Still others have continued developing their careers while also developing the marketing functions of their respective employers and businesses.
For many community- and industry- serving organizations, volunteers are the unsung heroes that bring people together and support everyone’s individual and collective successes.
Starting in September 2024, SMPS Ontario will be led my Meagan DeCarlo, CPSM – a longstanding member of the chapter.
Meagan is Marketing Manager at Alberici and is passionate about fostering connections and collaboration within the industry. She also champions best practices in marketing and business development. Meagen will be leading an established board comprised of the three new members, along with returning members:
- Current President: Greg Devine – Director of Business Development and Marketing – North America, Egis
- Secretary: Anthony Roppa – Principal, Vice-President Business Development of Aercoustics Engineering
- Director of Membership: Dhruv Soni – Business Development and Pursuits Manager with BDP Quadrangle
- Director of Education and Certification: Katie Weber – Director of Marketing at Moriyama Teshima Architects
The two positions that are open for nomination are Director of Communications and Treasurer. Both roles reflect a two-year commitment to fulfilling specified responsibilities. Individuals are able to nominate them selves or nominate someone whom they consider to be qualified and suitable for the respective role.
The third position is for President-Elect which will be appointed by the current board. Individuals are still asked, however, to express interest or make suggestions of suitable candidates.
For full information on the process for nominations of all positions, please visit the SMPS Ontario Website.
The chapter is also hosting an in-person social on Tuesday, March 19 which is a great opportunity to meet people currently in these roles and gain a greater understanding of the chapter.
No matter what one’s career objectives or trajectories are, making connections, contributing to community, and gaining experience outside of one’s full-time role are invaluable.
As a volunteer-led chapter, contributions are appreciated by fellow SMPS members and the businesses built through our respective work. Consider if contributing to SMPS Ontario is right for you and supporting the organization’s mission of “Business Transformed Through Marketing Leadership”
Author: Russell Pollard
