Strategic and Integrated Marketer
BUSINESS MANAGER / SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE
KELLOGG – MBA / Bilingual – Spanish 100% / Integrated & Multicultural Marketing / “Top Performer”
A successful strategic marketer, sales manager and business manager with an impressive track record as a “Driver of Growth” consistently meeting or exceeding goals and revenue expectations. Delivered increased market share, enhanced brand awareness, and developed revenue improvements through strategic marketing initiatives and effective brand management. As a “Visionary and Executor”, challenged paradigms and created innovative value added solutions. Developed very successful traditional media, direct, guerrilla and viral marketing initiatives. A consistent “Top Performer” recognized as a passionate and courageous, “Brave Heart” leader who develops highly productive, winning teams.
Business Development Leader
This is some of the feedback that I received and an example of one of the several Letters of Intent or Commitment Letters received by Mr. Rico.
Consulted G3 Imaging on a B2B commercial strategy and developed direct mail.
Nicole Claude - Director: "I reviewed the Business plan, Thank you for taking the time to contribute this phenomenal review to Tele Star. Frantz is very pleased with your analytical input and review. Frantz is currently in Haiti and gathering the necessary equipments to launch Tele Star. I am glad that the launching of Tele Star is happening.. Merci beaucoup"
Henry Rico - CEO: "I contracted Mr. Romero as a consultant to develop our business plan, develop a global commercial strategy, prepare an RFP process to hire a reputable Sales & Marketing Company, and to prepare our Risk Assessment and Risk Management plan. I commend the quality of his work and find myself thanking God for contracting his services after every meeting. These strategic documents have been praised by ten different private equity investment institutions.
Situation: Retail Checking is at the core of a customer relationship. However, there has been stagnant or negative growth in recent years. Action: Launched the "Escape to Mexico" campaign from Jan. - Apr. Result: Sold 15,000 accounts & overcame attrition losses to show positive growth. Justified a US$8MM ongoing initiative.
"Escape to Mexico" evolved into "CAP" - Totally Free Checking ... an ongoing $8MM p/y program. We developed POP, direct mail pieces, free gifts, and trained the sales force. The program yielded over 80,000 new accounts, and 10% growth on a yearly basis generating over US$50MM in revenues.
Managed over 8MM direct mail pieces on a yearly basis to support our sales efforts. Optimized the initiative for response and to drive higher average balances by tweaking mail carrier routes and targeting high networth households with special offers. Average balances were increased by 10% in test cells.
Totally Free Business Checking program consisted of 1 million mailers per year, branch POP materials, sales templates, some radio and some print.
Situation: Business checking accounts are critical to the bank but there is no growth. Action: Created a promotion for the product offering $50 + Travel & Hotel vouchers for small business accounts. Afterwards, we launched an ongoing program. Result: Doubled account productivity. With the launch of Free Business Checking (BCAP)doubled productivity again. When results slowed ... adjusted and improved incentives to make them more relevant to business owners. Productivity increased significantly again.
Little things go a long way ... I call it creating magic & injecting fun into a process. By providing the sales force with yellow construction hats, providing them fun tools, and fun incentives ... we were able to aggressively move the sales productivity needle in the right direction.
Situation: Need to build on the success of "Bob The Builder" and continue to train & raise product consciousness with the Sales Force. Action: Developed the Hot Red Bull campaign with a collectible component that would inspire competition within our sales force. Results: Doubled the productivity of "BTB" by producing 2618 Home Equity applications and US$174MM in applications embedding the product permanently into the priorities of the sales force.
Generated 1041 Home Equity applications and US$91MM in applications surpassing goals by 290% in three months producing more than all of the previous year. Produced 1255 Mortgage applications and US$210MM in applications - 44% more than same period previous year and breaking records with best performing months in history.
Situation: At Metris, we were not receiving enough productivity from our partner's branches in terms of credit card sales. Action: Developed the Jungle Book campaign with fun & accessible collectibles to inspire competition with the sales force. Results: Stimulated so much excitement that the Banco Popular's CEO sent for a set of collectibles ... the campaign doubled branch productivity producing 13,000 applications in 10 weeks. Consequently, Banco Popular recruited me and offered me a position to inject energy into its sales efforts.
Situation: Home loans are ignored by the sales force, and portfolio balances are minor. We need to make this a critical product in our service offering. Action: Created a fun campaign that provided product training and accessible incentives to the sales force. Results: Stimulated excitement and energy with an engaged sales force and grew home loans surpassing objectives.
Led Metris Commercial (Sales & Marketing) initiatives. Managed direct response, internet, telemarketing, and execution of 12-15MM mail pieces per year. Sales initiatives increased portfolio from US$200MM to US$350MM. Sold 174,000 cards in 2 years.
We developed an interactive Internet site to activate the community and to help generate "buzz" ... inviting comments/postings, as well as participation in our campaigns and promotional activities.
Major events included: * NY Puerto Rican Day Parade * Latino Film Festival * Dances & Art exhibits
All components of the campaign were integrated and delivered a consistent message. Media used included: Print, Radio, OOH, Direct Mail, Internet, and POP.
Worked with Ad Agency to develop a community based, grass roots initiative. Street teams were leveraged to activate the community by engaging with prospects passing out scratch & win cards to drive traffic to the branches. Street teams were also participating in community beautification activities. The result: Increased branch sales in the NY Region by 34%.
My objective was to put our B2B Middle Market business unit on the map in the Chicago market with a strong brand association between Popular Bear and the Chicago Bears. The sponsorship of the WBBM Chicago Bears Radio broadcast reaches a high profile audience of over one million people in the area. For less than US $200K, I was able to negotiate this sponsorship and in guerilla mode swipe away the prevalence of Chase's official sponsorship worth several million dollars. The campaign was a huge success ... and very Popular! It put our own "Monsters of the Middle Market" on the map.
Our brand would benefit greatly from free media coverage on ESPN Sport's Center nationwide and in each of the local markets during TV game broadcasts.
Popular Bear and Mr. Met became very good friends resulting from our sponsorship of the NY Mets. This relationship allowed for us to leverage Mr. Met in our advertising. My objective was to tap into the passion of fans and create strong & endearing brand associations. I chose not to pay player talent fees and avoided the risk of player departure from the team.
Baseball sponsorships definitely helped to create greater awareness and affinity for our institution. We sponsored the Anaheim Angels, Houston Astros, Florida Marlins, Chicago Cubs, NY Mets ... and the Houston Dynamo soccer team as well. The activation of these sports properties is powerful allowing us to engage customers in local markets while appealing to their passion.
Managed all stadium branding, ATM (baseball relevant) branding, signage, concourse displays, game programs, and supervised in-stadium event activation.
Sponsorship of the Chicago Half Marathon & the L.A. Marathon. These two initiatives have been very important providing us with great visibility in the market.
Print Ads have been a critical component of our Deposit Strategy. This ad promotes product and rate in a consistent manner with our branding - Make Dreams Happen.
Our Brand Awareness is strong and superior to that of Chase, Citibank, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo as an aggregate in our regional markets. This is a tremendous accomplishment considering the share of voice used by these giants.
In IL, perhaps the most saturated & competitive market in the banking sector, we achieved a 10% lift in awareness to become the No. 1 brand in the Hispanic segment. In addition, our brand climbed 17% in the general market segment overcoming gaps with Chase & Citibank in spite of their deep pockets. This is largely due to our guerrilla tactics & sponsorship of Chicago Bears Radio - WBBM (stealing greatly from Chase's Bear's sponsorship)... we also benefitted from special concert sponsorships. Finally, there was an important contribution from our sponsorships of the Chicago Half Marathon & Chicago Cubs.
Growing Brand Awareness in our CA Region has been a remarkable success story. From 2005 through 2007, our team grew awareness by 54%. This is greatly due to our sponsorship of the L.A. Marathon and Anaheim Angels. In addition, our integrated marketing campaign through TV, Radio, Print and Digital media vehicles has been very successful.
I played a key role in our brand development participating as a leader on the Service Vision (SVIP) Team and was named a "Leadership" Champion for the roll-out. * As an ambassador, I trained the sales force on our customer engagement model: "Connecting with Customers & Colleagues" * Developed the SV Heroes social networking communications platform to create a tipping point for our brand. This included an avatar program with over 3 Trillion variations. Created engaging communications and challenges to ensure comprehension and adaptation of standards & norms. The SV Heroes platform was praised by the renowned Chip Bell Group
Supervised the JD Power Engagement Study and distributed reports and communications to the field. With our President and senior team leading the charge and everyone contributing to the cause, we quickly saw marked improvement in key metrics. By the end of 2007, the engagement score jumped 4 points and reached a very respectable 29%. The platforms, communications, and training programs were very successful
Communicating our new corporate and brand values to our Dream Makers and future super heroes. Building team spirit through a major facilities art project and corporate communications platform
Co-leader of the US$3MM ATM Surround project partnering with the Head of Debit Cards and the Head of Facilities. I managed the branding and design of the ATM Surround bringing an amazing blue glow and beautiful appearance to our branches. Developed translucent POP materials for cross-selling opportunities and developed digital screens for the ATM machine
Managed a very successful US $2MM merchandising fixture and signage capital project to enhance our branch environment and sales efforts
Prepared pro forma and provided leadership on a US $2MM digital branch merchandising project. Developed digital content and managed the networked distribution system.
Led the design and development of our US $1MM marketing collateral rebranding initiative. Achieved a lot of excitement and significant impact as we moved away from a very hard and stoic dark blue and red to a highly energetic family of product colors injecting a lot of life into our branch environment.
Launched one of the most creative, successful and highly recognized direct mail pieces for Citibank. Honored in several magazines including Cromos and Publicidad & Mercadeo.
Developed the first financial portal in Latin America for Citibank. Negotiated exclusive channel with StarMedia. Launched Elton John concert promotion.
Development and execution of one of the most successful sales campaigns at Citibank surpassing goals by 80%. Co-branding alliances & prizes negotiated with American Airlines, Renault & Acer.
Trained in the art of database marketing by the famous Art Hughes and Paul Wang. Implemented a datawarehouse and developed a contact management tool. Reduced customer acquisition costs. Launched customer acquisition, cross-selling and retention initiatives. Improved LTV and Customer Net Revenue.
Strategic Planning and Consulting for Rico Developers (Chicago / Punta Cana, D.R.):Developed the strategy for a $1B luxury property / Hilton hotel project in Punta Cana. Supported a $250MM investment solicitation by guiding and developing the project business and marketing plans. Developed a media and digital strategy, including: SEO/SEM tactics; Social Networking; PURL; and experiential marketing events.
Additional Consulting Projects: Telestar-Exel TV; Café Magazine; G3 Imaging; Proexport; National Louis University; and Anixter
Directed the strategy, tactics and marketing execution for Banco Popular, a $14B entity with 145 stores. Effectively administered a budget of $18MM and lead a team of 17. Led creative services, campaigns, merchandising, database marketing, research and credit card marketing initiatives. Managed the agency and the production of all vehicles, including: publications, radio, TV, digital, out-of-home, and non-traditional elements. Provided strategic support to all business units and regional presidents.
Directed the marketing program for all Hispanic initiatives for a $10B - "Top 10" credit card issuing entity with $200MM in Net Income and 4000 employees. Led a team of four people and a budget of $8MM. Responsible for P&L of $350MM card portfolio. Led all efforts for credit card sales, customer retention and cross-sell / utilization efforts. Managed direct mail, direct response, event, telemarketing and Internet channels. Generated forecasts, established an acquisition plan, prepared marketing calendars and led product development. Recognized for building the most successful and lasting strategic partnership in the history of Metris while managing the Agent-Bank relationship with Banco Popular.
Developed a leading tourism Internet portal in Latin America. Led sales, marketing, and product development efforts. Prepared business model and plan. Opened offices in Bogota, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and Miami.
Led sales / business development efforts for “ZF”, the 2nd largest financial portal in Latin America. Established alliances and commercial relationships. Promoted to manage L.A. Region. Recognized by the CEO in Business Week magazine. Established sales process, trained staff and secured a beach head in Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and other countries.
Promoted to Director of Database Marketing responsible for new customer acquisition, cross-selling, & retention programs. Managed portfolio of US$240 million dollars in footings. Managed sales channels, member get member programs. As Marketing Manager managed branding and directed media with the advertising agency. Developed strategic alliances and launched co-branded campaigns and promotions.
“Differentiation and the Evolution of Advertising Strategy in Russia” Kellogg Graduate School of Management - Northwestern University
Richter Scholarship - “Japanese Foreign Direct Investment in Colombia” North Central College
Illinois State Scholar - 1983 Ranked Top 10 in Class National Honor Society
HSM - World Business Conference (2005) Rudy Giuliani, Jack Welch, Tom Peters, Madeleine Albright, Philip Kotler, Jeremy Siegel, Larry Bossidy, Clayton Christensen, Gary Hamel, Bill George and Edward J. Zander.
CBS Outdoor Latino - Hispanic Marketing Conference: New Arrivals, Acculturated and Assimilated Hispanics, East Coast vs. West Coast, Land Based vs. Sea Based Hispanics. Symbolism & Imagery.
1. Exceed Customer Expectations 2. Six Sigma Methodology 3. Management & Talent Supervision 4. Citibanking
Edward de Bono - Creativity in the Corporate World
John Sculley - Triumphant Strategies in the Age of the Customer
Marcus Evans - BrandSlam Summit (2007)
RMS Checking Symposium - 2007
Don Peppers - The Power of Marketing
How to Obtain Excellent Results from Reengineering
Marcus Evans - Chief Marketing Officer Summit (2007)
Lousi Stern - Distribution Channels
1. Systemic Thinking 2. Connecting with Customers & Colleagues 3. BSA & Compliance Training 4.Fair Lending 5. Accountability
Seth Godin on Differentiation and the Purple Cow
Al Ries - Positioning and Marketing Warfare
On Influencers, Mavens, and connectors -Blink & Tipping Point
KPMG - Project Management
William Ury - Negotiation ... an approach to Win-Win-Win
Haberfeld Checking Symposium - Totally Free Checking and Remote Deposit
Marcus Evans - Financial Institution Marketing (2007)
1. Successful history of adding value and contributing to the growth of companies - Net Income growth at Banco Popular from US$19MM to US$103MM & grew portfolio at Metris from $US200MM to US$350MM. 2. Strong commercial (Sales & Marketing) skills driving increased productivity and efficiency for sales forces. 3. Results oriented "Top Performer" consistently recognized by presidents and CEOs. 4. A passionate & courageous leader that builds highly engaged, winning teams.
CLICK ABOVE FOR REFERENCES Attached please find 18 current references. Others are available upon request.
CLICK ABOVE TO VIEW OR DOWNLOAD MY RESUME IN SPANISH
CLICK ABOVE TO VIEW OR DOWNLOAD MY RESUME IN ENGLISH
Many have referred to my management style as engaging, charismatic, and that of leadership by example. According to the Korn Ferry assessment model, I am a creative, participatory, and highly analytical leader. The Kingdomality model labels me as a "Prime Minister" with a strong balance as a creative "Discoverer". I, myself, heavily identify with the courageous, cunning, and charismatic styles of William Wallace and Henry V (consistent with the above mentioned assessments received). Challenge The Status Quo Create A Compelling Vision Establish Shared Values Enable Others To Act Model The Way Encourage The Heart
Attached please find a brief insight regarding some of my views on Marketing and Branding
VIEW BAND OF BROTHERS SPEECH GIVEN BY HENRY V AT AGINCOURT.
I have played on teams for the great part of my life. As such, I believe that teamwork is imperative to achieve success.
Experienced working on Boards including: National Louis University R&P Developers Colombian Cultural House National Soccer League
Teaching children to "SAY NO TO DRUGS" is an important cause for me, in part because I have had to fight off stereotypes all of my life and have seen the effects of the drug war in Colombia and the impact on the youth of America. As such, I have invested much time in youth programs and have previously gone on a speaker's circuit with D.A.R.E.
I believe that Marketing initiatives can be combined with Social Responsibility in a Win-Win-Win format. I supported the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation's Telethon and helped raise US$100, 000 for the cause breaking previous records. Banco Popular donated $15,000 as part of our contribution. The air time and exposure was significant on Chicago's No. 1 radio station (WBBM) ... and the goodwill was tremendous.
As an active member of the community, I enjoy volunteering for various organizations, including: Youth Soccer Youth About Business Red Cross Blood Dirves Cultural Houses Schools & Churches
Teaching kids to "SAY NO TO DRUGS"
I consider myself to have very strong religious values. My faith and devotion to God are solid and resolute. My wife and I share our values with our children to build their faith and character. It is beautiful to see them develop into strong moral citizens. It would be said of me that I am a responsible, accountable and humble individual. In addition, I consider myself to have very strong family values placing significant importance on the happiness and well being of our family. Socially, I am respectful and caring of all people.
I am driven to "Make Life Special" for my family ... it is what drives me to work hard and deliver 110% all of the time.
My Father has been a tremendous inspiration in my life. He worked days & nights to achieve the American dream and to provide for his family eventually becoming VP of Operations. He influenced my work ethic, commitment and drive for continuous improvement ... but most importantly, I learned how to become an affectionate husband and father figure with my family.
It is said that there is a mystic draw to Bogota and those who come to visit are bound to return. I have carried Colombia in my heart always and returned in 1994 after achieving my MBA at Kellogg ignoring a potential six figure salary to pursue my dreams & objectives in Colombia. In so doing, I achieved international experience in leadership roles, I married a beautiful Colombian lady and started to raise a loving bicultural family.
In this video a 102 year old grandfather tells his new born granddaughter about the ups and downs of life ... that crisis comes and goes ... but that life is full of beautiful moments and is there to be enjoyed … because it is too short. In the same way, I teach my children to be happy, to make life special, to enjoy its beauty and its moments.
It must be hereditary as my Spanish grandfather roamed the Western hemisphere in pursuit of his dreams. In much the same way, I identify with him greatly as well as with the legendary chaser of stars and dreams - Don Quixote. I find myself to be results oriented and set my objectives and work relentlessly to achieve them. Although I am a very passionate individual, I would declare that there is always reason, logic and a strong rationale behind my methodology. I was called crazy when I would take college credits during summer vacation, and even more when I decided to triple major and double minor in college. Perhaps, the characterization continued when I pursued my dream with a Kellogg MBA (along with its hefty price tag) and worked all day to pay for tuition and studied all night to prepare for exams. However, the greatest of adventures was, of course, awaiting for me upon completion of my MBA when I decided to continue following my dreams.
From time to time, I am asked what kind of values do I teach my children. Well ... religion and family values are at the fore front as previously mentioned. However, I also teach them about "CARPE DIEM" ... about seizing the day and the moment. I teach them to be positive / optimistic .... to be creative, to use their imagination, and to overcome obstacles ... I help them to understand that their mindset is what matters most in order to achieve their goals.
CLICK ABOVE - LINK TO KELLOGG I was blessed to receive an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Business - at the time the No.1 Business School in the nation. Kellogg prepared me to challenge paradigms while tackling strategic problems. As a result, I have been able to achieve meaningful, cost-effective solutions to problems that are consistent with corporate pillars.