Kathy Bremer, SVP and general manager of Porter Novelli’s Atlanta outpost, worships at the twin altars of family and work. While there may not be a place for her on the women’s tennis tour, her optimism and stick-to-it attitude have been key factors in the office’s growth.
Kathy Bremer, SVP and general manager of Porter Novelli’s Atlanta
outpost, worships at the twin altars of family and work. While there may
not be a place for her on the women’s tennis tour, her optimism and
stick-to-it attitude have been key factors in the office’s growth.
What is your best ability? The ability to commit wholeheartedly to
people and work.
How did you get into PR? I sometimes think I was born into it. I’m from
a family of writers, producers and composers and have always, in one way
or another, been writing, editing, marketing, fund-raising, advertising
and/or doing PR.
How did you get where you are today? By believing that if you can
envision it - and do it with integrity and teamwork - you can make it
happen.
What would you do if you didn’t do what you do? I’d be a professional
tennis player.
What is your best or worst habit? Relentless optimism.
How many hours a day do you spend on the Internet? Vicariously with my
young sons, three or four. On my own, less than one.
What are your hobbies? Family, family, family.
What will be the next big thing to hit PR and why? Return on
investment.
Agencies and clients will become more adept at defining, delivering and
measuring PR value and results that move the business.
How do you make a difference? PN is appropriately known as a work
hard/play hard place. I try to ’do well by doing good.’ Tell us
something amusing about your agency. During a recent staff retreat, our
group took a stand-up comedy lesson and guessed one another’s identities
based on favorite junk foods and secret nicknames.
What was your most embarrassing moment? My client and I were presenting
to her board of directors, which included some of Atlanta’s top
leaders.
As the client kicked off our presentation, I was supposed to hand out
information folders. Halfway up the aisle, I lost control of the
stack.
Runaway folders ended up commanding center stage.
Do you have a secret daily pleasure? Early morning coffee on the deck,
while the rest of the family is still asleep.
Do you have a motto or philosophy? In relationships with family, clients
and colleagues, always give way more than your 50%. Things work out
better when you’re not keeping score.
