Nancy Rewis, TCM Vice President of Marketing and eCommerce, Ole Miss Sorority Alum, and Illinois Native   

Channel-hoppers everywhere know the drill: flipping thru an abundance of reality and home-improvement shows, supplemented by sitcoms now forever ensconced in the shrine of TV Land – until you suddenly come upon the black and white elegance of Turner Classic Movies (TCM), and find yourself listening to Cary Grant’s inimitable accent. (TCM now also shows classics from later eras:  last week, Dog Day Afternoon, from film’s golden era in the 1970’s, was a particular standout.)  What would it like to be to work for this company, founded by the man, Ted Turner, who married and divorced Jane Fonda, and created news behemoth CNN?

Nancy Rewis knows full-well: for over nineteen years, she worked for that media giant, leaving as Vice President of Marketing and eCommerce, while also holding previous roles in its Enterprise Development and Brand Partnerships divisions.  She is also a member of Women in Cable Telecommunications and the American Marketing Association.  How does she describe herself through all of that experience?  As “a results-oriented Digital Marketing Executive” who grew revenue streams on a constant basis.  Most of all, she says that she loved working on any projects having to do with TCM, the network mentioned above, treasured by heavy-hitters like Martin Scorsese, who writes for its website — as well as couch devotees seeking a respite from present-day concerns.

Rewis, a native of Illinois who graduated from the University of Mississippi (where she was a member of its Kappa Delta sorority), offers two great recommendations: the hugely-selling career bible, What Color is Your Parachute?, and a quote from Confucius, about finding a job you love so that you never actually feel the onus of toiling every day.  Its message, in short, is this: follow your professional bliss, and you will forever escape the humdrum, I’m-out-the-door-at-the-stroke-of-5 p.m. blues.

Can you tell the readers a little bit about yourself?
I’m an innovative, performance-driven and accomplished marketing executive with extensive experience in digital marketing & eCommerce. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, travel, photography and volunteering in the community.

What does a day in your shoes typically look like?
Lots of meetings!  I worked on three different networks, so every day brought a different challenge.  I often had to wear many hats, and switch gears throughout the day depending on the brand or business I was working on.  I loved every minute of it!

What are the first three things you do when you wake up in the morning, and the last three things you do before you go to bed
Morning: Shower, wake kids, let dog out and feed everyone!
Evening: Put kids to bed, check emails, and read.

What is your breakfast of choice?
Greek yogurt and a banana.

What keeps you energized and motivated at work?
I like to continually be challenged in my work; I also get a lot of satisfaction and pride from helping others grow and develop.

What is your favorite part about your job?
I think my favorite part of working at Turner was the people, creative energy and endless opportunities to learn and grow.

What and who inspires you at work?
Creative thinking, innovation and collaboration.

Do you have a ‘Power Outfit’ that you wear for a big meeting or important work event?
Yes, a black sheath dress that is belted at the waist.  It is my “go-to” outfit.

What is your favorite leisure activity after a stressful work week?
Just relaxing at home with my family.

How does your culture/background influence your work?
I grew up with both my parents working.  It taught me motivation, perseverance, the importance of a strong work ethic, and to be passionate about what you do.

How many times have you changed your career direction?
I was with Turner nineteen years, but within that time had many different opportunities to grow my skillset in different areas, including publishing, managing a print magazine, marketing, ecommerce, licensing & merchandising, and new business development.

Favorite job you’ve ever had?
Anything that had to do with TCM.  I loved working on that brand/network.  There were so many great projects including TCM Cruise and TCM Auction.

What are your most steadfast ‘don’ts’ rules regarding work and the workplace, and what are your most cherished ‘do’s’? 
Don’ts:

• • • Don’t get involved in office politics
    • Don’t bring your personal emotions into the office
    • Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Do’s:

• • • Do network with people within the company
    • Do be flexible
    • Do stay positive, upbeat and smile!

What are the most important qualities of a good leader?
Communicating vision, motivating, inspiring others to excel, empowering others, and helping them to  grow and develop.

What are the unforgettable traits of role models who have inspired you most?

• • • Passion and an ability to Inspire
    • Having a clear set of values
    • Espousing a commitment to community
    • Selflessness and acceptance of others
    • A strong ability to overcome obstacles
    • Being knowledgeable and well-rounded

How have mentors impacted your personal and professional development?
I have had several mentors during my career. They have been there to listen, and always encouraged me to push myself and think differently.

What are three questions you like to ask during an interview to know if the candidate (or job) is the right fit?

• • • “Describe the work environment or culture in which you believe you are most productive, or like the best.”
    • “Tell me about the teams you’ve worked with, and describe the best boss they ever had.”
    • “How do you motivate other people to work with you?”

What advantages do you see as a woman in the workplace?
I believe women are naturally wired to think, act and innovate.  They have emotional intelligence, as well as the ability to see what others don’t.  Also, most women don’t try to be a “one-man show” — they often get along well with others, making them more collaborative and natural leaders.

What advice would you give to women starting their careers?

• • • Be informed and do your homework before an interview.
    • Be confident and believe in yourself.
    • Be willing to work your hardest to succeed.

What book would you recommend for women just starting their career?
It’s a classic: [the multi-million selling] What Color is your Parachute?

What is your favorite quote you try and live by?
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” – Confucius