MARKETING MIX: Brand manager of the week

Name: Carolyn Larter

Age: 31

Job title: Manager, GNC Gold Card

What is your greatest work achievement?

Being responsible for the launch and development of the GNC (General

Nutrition Centres) Gold Card loyalty scheme here in the UK. Based in the

US, GNC is the world’s largest health food retailer and now has 27 UK

stores. The card offers members a 20% discount.

What would be your dream brand to work on and why?

Natural by Nature Aromatherapy Oils. I’d insist on personally testing

all the oils and I know just the right person to have as a masseuse!

What would you do if you were not in marketing?

I’m into music and write and record my own songs, so a pop star.

What is the best agency you have worked with and why?

Project Assyst. They’re quick off the mark and always manage to meet

inevitable last-minute deadlines.

What was your most embarrassing mistake?

While under the influence of jet lag, mistaking the corporate chairman

for my opposite number in the US.

What was your best work trip?

Going to our head office in Pittsburgh to look at their three

million-plus member US Gold Card scheme.

Which business person do you most admire and why?

My boss, Margaret Peet. She has energy despite running a demanding

business and looking after a husband, baby, six horses and a dog. It’s

only the fact that she’s pregnant that has put a stop to her mountain

climbing and marathon running.

This article was first published on Marketing