2011 40 Under Forty: Kate Alexander
AVP SALES & MARKETING, Southbridge Savings Bank
Company location: Southbridge
Residence: Sturbridge
Favorite movie: "Nacho Libre," or anything with Jack Black.
Age: 39
Career highlights: My first sales role was at Rockford Industries, which was purchased by American Express. I moved up the ranks slowly at Amex and eventually relocated to start an inside sales group in Amex Small Business Services in New Jersey. That was my first sales management role and it afforded me the chance to see how sales management and marketing worked in a Fortune 50 company. Over time, I have been able to augment sales management roles with more creative channels in marketing as well as serving in a training capacity.
Community involvement: I am serving my third term as the chairwoman of the Sturbridge School Committee. I also serve on the school building committee, which is responsible for a brand-new elementary school now under construction. Additionally, I am the vice president of the Tantasqua Education Foundation. I serve on various committees for the Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce. I also coach youth softball and soccer in Sturbridge.
Biggest success: Being named an officer and assistant vice president at Southbridge Savings has been a privilege. So much of what I do cannot be measured in a report or on a balance sheet and to be recognized by our executive committee was truly a nice endorsement of my hard work.
Biggest challenge: My biggest challenge would be coming to a small, “almost-family” business after being at larger corporations. I had to learn that things happen at different paces, and require much more justification. Learning a new culture has been a great experience. I have learned that smaller businesses afford rewards in a work-life balance, and allow you to take true ownership.
Mentors: Ken Vancini and Jennifer Cunningham are two people that I worked under at Amex that taught me so much about work ethic and organization, and gave me a chance to stretch my comfort zone. Personally, my sister is the most amazing mom and as a mother of four, I look up to her and how she handles her role as a mother vs. her career.
Hidden talent: I am a total weather geek.
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