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A Busy Communications Leader on Breaking Into the Biz and Helping Clients Succeed

Estimated reading time ~ 4 min
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Krysty Sagnia, Managing Director of the Global Resource Center at Commonwealth//McCann.

Krysty Sagnia
Location: Detroit, MI
Job: Managing Director of the Global Resource Center, Commonwealth//McCann
Education: B.A. in telecommunications, Indiana University
Twitter: @CW_McCann

What was your first “real” job? How did you get it?

When I graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington, the job market was very tight and it was nearly impossible to find a position in my desired field. For a year after graduation, I worked for my optometrist while searching for a role in communications. During this time, I was determined to gain as much experience as possible, so I offered to help out at an event for a small organization called Duffy Communications in Atlanta. I showed up ready to work, dressed in my best business attire with a folder full of resumes. I was eager to help in any way possible and was tasked with manning the welcome table. While there, I asked a lot of questions and wound up meeting an account supervisor who offered me a paid internship.

Halfway through what was supposed to be a 12-week internship, I landed a full-time job as an Account Coordinator for Duffy Communications. That first job taught me about the importance of time management and organization. I managed small accounts and spent my time working with clients, drafting press releases, managing event logistics, and pitching stories to the media. It was a lot to juggle as a young professional, but I learned to prioritize tasks and keep track of long-term goals – skills I still carry with me in my current role as the Managing Director of the Global Resource Center for Commonwealth//McCann.

What do you spend the majority of your work day doing?

Commonwealth//McCann is the global advertising agency of record for Chevrolet. I oversee operations for our Global Resource Center (which consists of a team of more than 65 employees) and work to create strong partnerships with our clients. In my job, there is no such thing as a “typical work day.” I spend my time managing 15 direct reports and facilitating communication between internal agency teams and clients to make sure our goals and processes are aligned. Basically, if you have a problem or a request, come find me and I’ll make sure to connect you with the right people, resources, and support. Every day brings a new challenge, and I love being at the center of it all. And, though my daily tasks vary, my main priority is always building trust and nurturing relationships so we can help our clients grow their businesses.

What is the biggest obstacle you’ve faced? How has it shaped you?

It was actually a personal challenge. My son was born three and a half months premature and was in the hospital for three months after he was born. It was an extremely emotional time, and it was difficult to manage family and work. When I reflect on that time, I am proud of how we navigated it, and I now realize that there is no challenge or problem that I cannot handle and solve. That experience made me resilient and emboldened me to tackle any obstacle head on.

What advice do you wish you could have given yourself on day one of your career?

I would tell my younger self to stay curious, ask questions, find answers, and chart her future. It’s so important to take advantage of the opportunities before you and push yourself to learn as much as possible. Unlocking the new and different helps you stay alert and informed so you can plan your next move.

Do you have any specific strategies you use to stay productive?

I am a big planner and always write everything down. I make a to-do list every day and put a box beside each task. As I accomplish my goals, I check them off one by one. I always feel accomplished whenever I check a box. And before I leave the office (no matter the hour), I create my list for the next day. I’ve done this for more than 25 years.

What's something about you that people might be surprised to learn?

I like listening to disco music while I work! It soothes me and helps to cut out any distractions and extraneous noise in my head. I always turn to Donna Summer, KC and The Sunshine Band, the Bee Gees and, of course, Michael Jackson’s “Off The Wall” album whenever I need a lift.

What was one of the most memorable moments of your career?

I can still remember the excitement I felt when I received my first vice president appointment. I was working at Y&R, a global ad agency, and they promoted me on December 13, 2000. It was the first public recognition of my work ethic with my colleagues and friends. I was so proud and humbled by the appointment. That night, I went out to celebrate with my boyfriend and he proposed! I later learned that he had been planning to propose that week and, when I shared the good news, he knew it was the perfect opportunity. Ever since that eventful December, 13 has been our lucky number; we got married on the 13th, and our son was born on the 13th.

How have certain candidates stood out to you (in a good way) during the hiring process?

I really appreciate it when candidates know themselves and are able to clearly articulate why they’re the best for the job. I look for people who are engaged, outgoing, and confident. And most importantly, it’s crucial that they’ve researched the position and the company, and that they ask good questions.

What have you read or listened to recently that you’d recommend?

I loved Mariha Junaid’s TED Talk “The Hijab: A Way of Life.” In it, she speaks about unconscious bias and its impact on her life. It was eye-opening. We’re all biased in some way. Recognizing our biases teaches us how to better engage with others and work toward a positive outcome in any situation. I’m also listening to The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, which is helping me to understand more about my role as a female executive.

Do you have a favorite motto or saying that keeps you motivated?

“Perception is reality.” I strive to remember that things aren’t always as they seem, and I constantly try to dig deeper before jumping to conclusions.

Images by David Cilibraise, Commonwealth//McCann
McCann Worldgroup is a Jopwell partner company.

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