AMA Birmingham

February Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00 UTC
Bill Fox – “Momentum’s Growth, Marketing Challenges & Successes in the Changing Telecom Landscape”
Bill Fox is President and CEO of Momentum Telecom, leading the team in their mission of enabling others to thrive by combining smarter technology with seasoned experts to deliver an unmatched customer experience.
He previously served as Chief Financial Officer of SuccessEHS, Inc., a software and services company for physician offices with approximately 400 employees. Bill has experience as an investment banker with Lincoln International, where he specialized in debt capital financings for middle market leveraged buyouts, and worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers, which provides audit and assurance, tax and consulting services.
Bill received an MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School and a BS in Business Administration and Accounting from Washington and Lee University. Bill is an active volunteer with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, where he currently serves as the Board President of the Alabama/NW Florida Chapter. He enjoys cycling, golf, fly fishing, and skiing. Bill is married to his college sweetheart, Allyson, and has three children.

September Signature Series Luncheon | Rebranding the Bulldog
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Rebranding the Bulldog: Creating New Visual Identity Standards For Samford University
Presented by Betsy Bugg Holloway, Ph.D.
Vice President for Marketing and Communication, Professor of Marketing – Samford University
Samford University recently embarked on a six-month journey to develop new visual identity standards for the university, including a new athletic bulldog logo. This new branding and identity will be revealed to the public in November, but at our September luncheon Dr. Betsy Bugg Holloway will share with us a preview of what’s in store and reveal the processes the University followed to reach its decisions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how a major rebranding effort was conceived and executed.
In her role as Vice President for Marketing and Communication and Professor of Marketing for Samford University, Dr, Holloway is responsible for all marketing and branding initiatives across the university’s operations. Holloway also teaches courses in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. Prior to her academic career, Holloway lived and worked in Japan and was employed by a global pharmaceutical firm. She most recently served as the company’s director of international business and managed global sales offices in Argentina, Denmark, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Dr. Holloway’s research interests include services marketing, consumer behavior and reputation management. She has published more than 60 academic articles, book chapters, and conference proceedings and regularly presents her research and lectures in the U.S. and abroad. She is a member of the American Marketing Association, the Academy of Marketing Science and the Society for Marketing Advances. Within the community, Holloway serves on the board of directors for the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama (PARCA), YWCA, Rotary Club of Birmingham, Scholarships for Kids, and as a trustee for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

January Signature Series Luncheon | O'Henrys Coffee
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Caffeine Powered Marketing
Presented by Randy Adamy | Owner, OHenry’s Coffees and OHenry’s Coffee Roasting Co.
January 18, 2017 | The Harbert Center

O’Henry’s is one of Birmingham’s favorite food & beverage brands. Join us on January 18th as CEO Randy Adamy explains the O’Henry’s approach to marketing – starting with the foundational principles laid by its founder, Dr. Henry Bright, through the brand’s growth and expansion to new markets. If you want to hear how a local brand thrives going head-to-head with a global behemoth – and in an increasingly crowded field of smaller players, this is a luncheon you won’t want to miss!

[March 2016 Luncheon] Beyond Brochures – Using Apps To Engage An Audience
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Beyond Brochures – Using Apps To Engage An Audience
Taylor Peake Wyatt, President of MotionMobs, is an entrepreneur and experienced software consultant. Taylor has been involved in building and promoting Birmingham’s growing technology community since 2010.
Through MotionMobs, she has helped entrepreneurs start their first company and experienced business leaders embrace technology to improve efficiency within their firms. As a sitting board member with REV Birmingham and BBVA Compass, Taylor has been able to watch new companies establish a home and grow their brand in the city. Over the last couple of years, Taylor has participated in the revitalization in downtown Birmingham by purchasing a century-old warehouse building and establishing it as the new headquarters for MotionMobs.
In the past, Taylor has served on multiple grant boards for non-profit efforts, including State Farm. With a strong background in programming and an Information Systems degree from UAB’s School of Business, Taylor understands how to build and grow results-driven products, but her biggest skill is consistently bringing the best talent to the table.

November Signature Series Luncheon | Warren Averett 360: Organizing Solutions Around The Client
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Warren Averett 360: Organizing Solutions Around The Client
Presented by Todd Decker, CMO and Head of Business Development – Warren Averett
November 16, 2016 | The Harbert Center
Join us as Todd Decker shares how his firm has developed “Warren Averett 360” – a comprehensive marketing approach positioning the firm as more client centered and more focused on meeting client needs than competing firms. With over 40 services to offer, both employees and clients need to be made aware of all the ways the firm can help them. WA 360, organizes solutions around the client from their perspective, making it easier to identify needs and cross-serve clients.
Todd Decker has spent more than a decade in leadership roles at Sterne Agee, Regions, BBVA Compass and Bank of America. Todd began his marketing career at Johnson & Johnson where he was Marketing Director on several leading consumer brands. Todd leads the Firm’s practice development and marketing endeavors presenting the unique value of the Firm, its people and service offerings across multiple regions, service lines and practice groups. He works with executive management on strategic initiatives and also supports the Firm’s efforts in pursuing significant client opportunities. His responsibilities also include growth initiatives, communications and marketing oversight of the Firm’s industry niche teams.
Todd is a graduate of Duke University and earned his Master of Business Administration at the University of North Carolina.

AMA Spring Mixer 2016
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00

October Signature Series Luncheon | Dreamland’s Challenge: Connecting With New Markets While Maintaining Core Identity
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Dreamland’s Challenge: Connecting With New Markets While Maintaining Core Identity
Presented by Betsy McAtee, CEO, Dreamland BBQ
Dreamland Bar-B-Que is an iconic brand with a history that spans over half-a-century. Dreamland’s identity is a result of one man’s dream and guests’ memories and experiences tied to that dream. Now with nine locations across the Southeast, a retail product line available in grocery stores and nationwide shipping from dreamlandbbq.com, Dreamland faces an opportunity (and challenge) every day to connect with new and existing audiences with relevant and compelling messaging while remaining true to their core identity. Dreamland CEO Betsy McAtee will discuss the expansion of the brand, diversification of operations and the marketing strategies that support the goal of creating a mutually beneficial relationship with guests and customers.
With over 20 years of experience in the food industry, Betsy McAtee has spent her career in key positions for regional and national brands. When she joined Dreamland Holding Company in 2000, she brought that vast experience with her. Dreamland BBQ Holding Company owns and operates seven restaurants in the Southeast and is the franchisor of the Dreamland Brand, a nationally recognized restaurant brand. Under Betsy’s direction, Dreamland has not only retained the legendary identity that has created an ever-loyal customer base over the last 50 years, but has also expanded and evolved to meet the needs of the modern customer.
Dreamland has been recognized among the best BBQ in the nation by Southern Living, Men’s Journal, USA Today and more! Birmingham Magazine named Dreamland a Legacy Business in 2012. Dreamland was named the Retailer of the Year Silver Medalist by the Alabama Retail Association in 2014 and Retailer of the Year Gold Medalist in 2015. Prior to her career at Dreamland, Betsy served as District Manager, Area Training Manager, Zone Business Manager and Key Account Manager for the Frito-Lay division of PepsiCo. She was responsible for implementation of a national route sales training program and served as the test market coordinator for a bakery product line extension in the Southeast.

[April 2016 Luncheon] The Absolutely Essential Social Media Tools
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
The Absolutely Essential Social Media Tools
by Wade Kwon, Founder of Y’all Connect conference
Social media is much more than hashtags and apps. It’s about interaction and reach, about conversions and sales.
Crafting a solid social media marketing plan begins with the right tools. Let Wade Kwon, one of the Poynter Institute’s 35 Influential People in Social Media, point you to the best free and paid apps to maximize engagement and minimize stress.
Communications consultant and Birmingham Blogging Academy founder Wade Kwon has written thousands of blog posts and created blogs big and small. He loves to tell stories, in person and in print and online as Birmingham’s Best Blogger.
He is founder of the Y’all Connect conference, yallconnect.com.
The Poynter Institute selected Kwon as one of 35 Influential People in Social Media. Birmingham Magazine readers selected him as Best Tweeter 2 years running in the Best of B’ham 2010 and 2011 online polls. His site, Magic City Post, was voted Best Website in the Birmingham’s Best 2011 readers’ poll by the Birmingham News; it also won 2011 Green Eyeshade Awards for Best Blog and Specialized Site.
Twitter: http://twitter.com/wadeontweets

2016 Executive Reception - AMA Members-Only
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Join us and over 100 executives from Birmingham and beyond at this AMA members-only event.
Held at Samford University’s Brock School of Business.

Executives in attendance include:
Jeff Stephens, General Manager, 365-Inc.
Gary Bolton, Vice President Global Marketing, Adtran
Ralph Moore, President, AHI Corporate Housing Group
John Hudson, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Business Development, Alabama Power
Susan Brouillette, CEO, Alacare
Don Moore, Director of Business Development & Analytics, Alagasco
John Gourley, Managing Director, Altec
Drew Smith, Marketing Communications Director, Altec
John Howe, CEO, American Pipe & Supply
Fred McCallum President, AT&T Alabama
Jim Hulsey, Director of Marketing, Atlas RFID Solutions, LLC
Melanie Smith, Public Relations Communication Manager, Atlas RFID Solutions, LLC
Linda Cencula, President/CEO, Avadian Credit Union
Joe O’Donnell, Editor/Publisher, B Metro Magazine
Brook W. Redmond, Director of Business Development, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
Laurie Holt, Marketing Coordinator, Barfield, Murphy, Shank, & Smith CPA
Bethanne Jenkins, Director of Marketing, Bayer Properties
Mark Klein, SVP, Director of Marketing Operations, Brand & Advertising BBVA Compass
Michelle Stotz Gels, Director of Channel Acquisition, Programs and Analytics, BBVA Compass
Deborah Stephens, Founder, Chairman, & CEO, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.
Judi Braswell, VP of Marketing, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.
Brook W. Redmond, Dir. of Business Development, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
Cindy Fisher Crawford, Director of Communications and Brand Strategy, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr., Founder, Birmingham Times
Linda Flaherty-Goldsmith, President, Birmingham-Southern College
Blake Rhodes, Marketing Manager, BL Harbert International
Rebekah Elgin-Council, Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
Kelly Schrupp, Director of Business Development & Marketing, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings
John Stivender, VP-Business Development, Brasfield & Gorrie General Contractors
Kate DeWitt Darden, VP Health Marketing and Communications, Brookwood Baptist Health
Dee Dee Mathis, Sr. VP of Marketing, Bruno Event Team,
Al Cason, President & Chief Operating Officer, Bud’s Best Cookies, Inc.
Walker Sorrell, Associate Publisher, Business Alabama-PMT Publishing,
Tim Carroll, Director of Sales/Marketing, Business Interiors
Jeff Skipper, VP Marketing, Chester’s International LLC
Tom Carr, VP of Marketing, Chicken Salad Chick
Garland Stansell, Chief Communications Officer-Corporate Communications & Marketing, Children’s of Alabama
Alton Irwin, CMO, COCM
Michael Wilson, Corporate Marketing Director, Command Alkon
Tanveer Patel, CEO, ConcertCare
Mark Johnson, President and CEO, Creative Benefits Solutions LLC
Pat Henry, President, Daniel Corporation
Lisa Hasen, Sr. Marketing Director, Daxko
April Benetollo, Head of Career Development, Daxko
Brad Fisher, Corporate Dir. of Marketing & Communication, DCH Health System
David Rula, Partner, Digital Marketing Services, Inc.
John Peinhardt, President, Direct Point
David Rula, Partner, Digital Marketing Services, Inc.
Betsy McAtee, CEO, Dreamland BBQ
Karla Wiles, VP Corporate Communications, EBSCO Industries
Tate Maddox, Dir. of Marketing, Employment Screening Services
John Burdett, President and CEO, FastSlowMotion
Cord Sachs, President/CEO, FireSeeds
Will Riley, Marketing Director, FireSeeds
Mike McCraw, Managing Director, Founders Investment Banking
Andy Harp, Founder, Frios Gourmet Pops
Leisha Harris, Dir. of Marketing & Public Relations, Grandview Medical Center
Rebel Negley, CEO, Granny Hester’s Fine Foods, LLC
James Riley, CMO, Great Southern Wood Preserving Inc.
Francis Hare, High Commander & Chief Creative Officer, Hare Communications
Heidi Elnora, Owner, Heidi Elnora
Sarah Sharp, VP Marketing, Hibbett Sports
Eric Hoffman, President & COO, Hoffman Media, LLC
Dan Pahos, Franchise Owner, Home Instead Senior Care
Cathleen Shaw, Marketing & Communications Manager, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Anna Powell, VP Marketing, Influence Health
Mike Nolte, CEO, Influence Health
Jason Lovoy, President, Infomedia
Devon Laney, President & CEO, Innovation Depot
Kris Bishop, President & CEO, Integrated Legacy Solutions
Jake McKenzie, CEO, Intermark
Jim Cavale, President, Iron Tribe
Brian Pitts, CEO, ITAC Solutions
Pam Measel, Dir. of Marketing, Jack’s
David P. Kassouf, Director, Kassouf & Company
Mike Kemp, President/CEO, Kemp Management Solutions
Jay Brandrup, Principal, Kinetic Communications
David Knight, CEO, Knight Eady
Michael Eady, CMO, Knight Eady
Mark Whitworth, COO, Knight Eady
Glenn Phillips, CEO, Lake Homes Realty
Larry Norris, President & CEO, Lewis Communications,
Rhiannon Sharpe, Business Development Manager, The Lemak Group of Companies
John Gardner,President, Luckie & Company
Lisa Beck, CMO, Main Street Inc.
Danny Markstein, Managing Director, Markstein
Julie Wall, VP, Markstein
David Martin, President, Martin Retail Group
Jessica A. Findley, Executive VP, Masada Resource Group, LLC
Bill Stone, VP of Industrial & Commercial Business Development, Mayer Electric Supply Company
Gregory S. Curran, Principal, Maynard, Cooper & Gale, P.C.
Jeff McDowell, Owner, McDowell Security
Shannon Vann, VP of Sales & Marketing, McKinney Capital
Danny McKinney, CEO, McKinney Capital
Tom McLeod, President, McLeod Software
Wendi L. Allen, Dir. of Inside Sales and Marketing, The McPherson Companies
Willis McKee, VP-Marketing & Communications, MedJet Assist
Vince Thompson, Chairman/CEO, Melt LLC
Bryan Council, President, Metro Monitor
Mitch Wolfe, Chief Customer Officer, Milo’s Tea Company
Bill Fox, President and CEO, Momentum Telecom
Taylor Peake Wyatt, President, MotionMobs
Emily Hart, Dir. of Marketing, MotionMobs
Kelly Knudsen, Co-Owner, Moxy
Brandy Herschbach, Co-Owner, Moxy
Shelley Stewart, CEO, O2 Ideas
Bill Todd, President and Partner, O2 Ideas
Randy Adamy, CEO, O’Henry’s Coffees
Dana Garvin, Dir. of Strategic Partnerships, Pack Health
Paul J. DeMarco, Attorney, Parsons, Lee, Juliano, PC
Jason Harkins, Managing Member, Payroll & Benefit Solutions
Jane Barnett, Marketing and Business Development, Payroll & Benefit Solutions
Elizabeth B. Shelton, Dir. of Communications, PharmaPoint
Lykethia Pierce, CEO, Pierce & Associates CPA
Jeff Bowlby, Chief Marketing Officer, ProAssurance
Frank Sottosanti, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer, Protective Life Insurance Company
Dave Burke, EVP, Red Diamond
Michele R. Elrod, EVP, Head of Marketing, Regions Financial
Robert R. Jolly Jr., President & CEO, Retail Specialists, Inc.
CJ Britton, Dir. of Creative Services, Royal Cup Coffee and Tea Inc.
Owen Harris, Dir. of Brand Marketing, Royal Cup Coffee and Tea Inc.
Joe Meads, Principal and Owner, Sain Associates Inc.
Andrew Westmoreland, Ph.D., President, Samford University
Betsy Holloway, Ph.D., VP for Marketing & Communication, Samford University
Randy Pittman, VP – University Advancement, Samford University
Howard Finch, Ph.D., Dean and Professor, Samford University’s Brock School of Business
Bruce Nichols, Dir. of Executive Education, Samford University’s Brock School of Business
Darin White, Ph.D., Chair, Entrepreneurship, Management, & Marketing Department, Samford University’s Brock School of Business
Dr. Mark Schaeffer, Schaeffer Eye Care
Meagan Freeman, Dir. of Marketing & Advertising, Schaeffer Eye Care
Derek R. Waltchack, Partner, Shannon Waltchack
Alex Dudchock, County Manager, Shelby County, Alabama
Ron Shoe, President, SIP Oasis, Inc.
W. Todd Carlisle, President and Attorney, Sirote
L’Tryce Slade, Owner, Slade, LLC
Robert D. Pierce, Jr., President, SourcePointe
Steve Whatley, Chairman, President, and CEO, Southern States Bank
Meredith Nelson, SVP Marketing and Training, Southern States Bank
Dan Starnes, Publisher, Starnes Publishing
Keith P. Brown, President / CEO, State Traditions
Danae Boyd, Marketing Director, Sterne Agee
Merrill Stewart, President, Stewart/Perry
Gayle Rogers, CMO, Strong Automotive
Bill Stoeffhaas, Principal, Style Advertising, Inc.
Mark Griggs, VP Marketing, Summer Classics | Gabby | Parker James
Michael Blackstone, MD, CEO, Suture Health, Inc.
Justin Hardy, President, Switch Audio Video
Tim Lewis, President, TALA Professional Services
Seth Williams, CMO, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
Keith Richards, Founder/Chief Development Officer, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café
Fernando Valentin, President & CEO, The Trinity Design Group, LLC, MBE
Eric Housh, CMO, TicketBiscuit
Mollie Durbin, Marketing Director, TicketBiscuit
Brian C. Hamilton, CEO, Trillion Communications Corp.
Mike Wittmann, Ph.D., Professor/Chair Department of Marketing, Industrial Distribution & Economics, UAB
Rosie O’Beirne, Dir. of Digital Strategy and Marketing, UAB
Dr. Amiee Mellon, Assistant Marketing Professor, University of Montevallo
Jim Pease, ‎‎VP Market Development, Vulcan Materials Company
Todd Decker, CMO, Warren Averett
Dominique Johnson-Lindsay, Dir. of Marketing, Wright Equipment
Julie Wade, VP, Yogurt Mountain
George Dennis, President, Zoom Motor Sports

[May 2016 Luncheon] Concentrate and Dominate
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
“Concentrate and Dominate” Find one niche to focus on – do one thing and do it well.
by John Paul Strong, Strong Automotive
Author of two books in the Next Day Traffic series, the first in August of 2011, and second in January 2013, both sold exclusively online and to agency clients. He has written an award winning blog since October of 2008 – also called Next Day Traffic with over 1,000 total posts. In addition, he is a member of the Texas Auto Writer’s Association.
His many accolades and proven experience have given him the opportunity to share his industry knowledge at conferences of various media companies and state automotive dealer associations, as a public speaker on automotive marketing tactics as well as dealer 20 groups to present ideas and concepts. John Paul’s relentless pursuit of excellence in dealership positioning and presentation sets a standard unmatched in the automotive marketing industry.

AMA Coffee Talk | September 2016
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
If you’ve wanted to know more about AMA Birmingham and the value that AMA membership can bring to you and your business, come by Red Cat any time between 7:30 and 8:30 am. We’ll tell you more about us and answer any questions you may have. Even better, coffee is on us!
Looking forward to getting to know YOU!

VIP Reception & Open House with the Samford AMA
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Join us on the rooftop patio of Samford’s brand new Cooney Hall as the Samford AMA hosts us for food and beverages from Taziki’s plus a tour of this state-of-the-art business education facility.

[June 2016 Luncheon] Live Your Brand in Social Media
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Live Your Brand in Social Media – Tell Customers’ Stories to Engage Prospects and Drive ROI
by Melissa Musgrove VP, Head of Social Media, Regions Financial
Melissa Musgrove is Vice-President and Head of Social Media at Regions Bank and has more than 10 years of experience in Digital and Social Media Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations. At Regions, she directs Social Media vision and strategy and leads a team of Community Managers and Social Customer Care Representatives.
Melissa will discuss creating integrated, cross-channel campaigns that amplify the Voice of the Customer through storytelling. Also, learn how to cultivate brand advocacy by providing advice and guidance to your customers through social. And understand how to capture the attention of your customers in the increasingly noisy and fragmented social media space.
Also, discover how to:
* Implement acquisition tactics and boost results
* Build campaigns around customers’ passion points
* Deliver proactive social customer care
Melissa has her M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University and B.A. from Samford University. Follow her on Twitter @MMMusgrove.

Marketing Automation Seminar
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
You’ve heard about marketing automation (MA), but do you know what it really is?
Better yet, how can you use it effectively for your business? MA can be a powerful tool to help you implement your marketing plan.
Join us as AMA member and MA expert John Burdett helps us dig into what marketing automation is all about and discusses best practices you can use for your business. Light snacks and beverages will be provided. Free for members of AMA Birmingham; $10 for guests. Please RSVP by Oct. 21.

AMA Holiday Mixer
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00

AMA Summer Mixer 2016
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00

AMA Collegiate Conference
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
AMA Collegiate Conference
The AMA Collegiate Conference is one of the best investments you can make as an aspiring marketer, and we invite you to join us Nov. 4, 2016, from 12:00-5:00 at Uptick Marketing (100 12th Street North). Take your marketing studies to the next level, and join local professionals for professional development, career advice, networking and fun.
This event is open to undergraduate Marketing and business students looking to learn from industry professionals about careers and trends in Marketing and Sales. The AMA Collegiate Conference can inspire you and give you the tools you need, to start your career as a young marketing professional.
Cost : $10, and includes Lunch and beverages will be provided. Please RSVP by Oct. 31, 2016.

January Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Darin White – “Changing the Game – Key Trends Driving the Business of Sports”
Darin White is founder and coordinator of the Sports Marketing program in the Brock School of Business at Samford University. He serves as the Chair of the American Marketing Association Sports Marketing Academic Society (SIG), the leading international scholarly body charged with expanding the knowledge base of the field of sports marketing.
He is a go-to source for media seeking insights into sports business and has been featured in the Washington Post, USA Today, NPR, ESPN Radio, Saturday Down South and the International Business Times. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Alabama Sports Foundation, the primary lobby responsible for bringing sporting events to the state of Alabama.
Recently, Mr. Whites sports marketing program at Samford University made a national impression on the world of sports when his team of seniors pitched their strategic marketing plan to increase fan engagement within the millennial generation to Jason Kaufman, Vice President , Market Research and Analytics for the National Basketball Association.

August 2016 Luncheon | Five Ways To Win At Content Marketing
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Five Ways To Win At Content Marketing
Presented by Eric Housh, CMO of TicketBiscuit and Mollie Durbin, TicketBiscuit Marketing Director
Join us and learn proven strategies and processes that have helped TicketBiscuit launch successful new brands and gain massive audiences of fans and ambassadors.
After being named CMO in 2008, Eric immediately redefined the nature of the ticket buyer experience, conceiving and driving the development of several programs aimed at artist discovery and internet marketing. In the years that followed, TicketBiscuit continued its trajectory of relentless innovation, launching what would soon become one of the largest primary ticketing affiliate networks and being of the first companies to offer mobile ticketing, Facebook ticketing, Apple Passbook integration and much more. He was nominated for Alabama CMO of the year in 2012, and helped TicketBiscuit achieve recognition as one of Birmingham’s best places to work in 2013 and 2015. Eric was named TicketBiscuit Director of Sales in late 2013, and has since led the company to consecutive years of double digit year-over-year growth.
Mollie’s background includes more than 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations in a variety of industries, including entertainment/events, healthcare and software. As marketing has become an increasingly technical endeavor, she has been able to draw on her background in web design and coding to help companies “punch above their weight” in the ever-evolving digital world. Her ability to combine content marketing, SEO, paid search and other marketing efforts into one robust marketing engine has made it possible for her to help companies grow in powerful ways.

Holiday Celebration 2016
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we’re making it even brighter… with giveaways! First, become a member of AMA Birmingham before our December 1st Holiday Party and receive free admission! Second, come to the party at Vulcan Park where all members in attendance will have a chance to win other great prizes – including one year of FREE admission to our Signature Series luncheons (a $200 value)! If you bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots, and we’ll put your name in the hat again to increase you chance of winning! To become an AMA Birmingham member, visit http://bit.ly/2fFFAsi or contact membership@bhamama.org.

Birmingham AMA Holiday Networking Mixer
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00

September Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Stumbling And Serving: a Trekker’s Guide to the C-Suite
The C-Suite: part myth, part reality. Not a destination harbor, just one more port of call
Presented by: Bill Todd
Bill Todd of o2ideas will share his unique perspective of winding up in the C-Suite and ad agency ownership at our September AMA luncheon. Todd, who originally started as a TV reporter in Birmingham, in April became an owner of Birmingham ad shop o2ideas after being named president more than two years ago. He will offer practical tips on how to make your journey to the C-Suite based on a three-decade odyssey across the high seas filled with stumbles, catastrophes, victories and joy.

AMA Summer Marketing Mixer
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Network and mingle with fellow marketing and advertising professionals on a cool summer evening at Above, the rooftop bar at the Redmont Hotel.AMA Summer Marketing Mixer
Prepay online for just $15 or pay $20 at the door. Registration includes a delicious Taziki’s buffet plus two drink tickets!
Enjoy salsa dancing starting at 8:30.
Non-members and guests welcome.

January Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Tackling 100+ Unique Markets Through Effective Communications
Presented by Casey Lassiter- Associate Director of Communications, Healthsouth Corporation
Casey will share how her very small staff, handles communications and marketing for more than 100 hospitals in HealthSouth’s nationwide network.
The hospitals are in very different markets – some in small markets with no competitors while some experience the opposite. This creates a challenge for her team, which acts as a resource and support for all HealthSouth hospitals as well as the corporate office.
The presentation will include details on how they tackle public relations, media relations, crisis communications, creative services, online communications (including social media) and internal communications and marketing from a corporate level while still allowing hospitals to customize their message and marketing.
About Casey Lassiter
Casey Lassiter serves as associate director of communications at HealthSouth Corporation where she is responsible for the company’s external communications including public and media relations for both the corporate office and the company’s nationwide network of more than 100 hospitals in 33 states. In this role, she also serves as the media spokesperson for the company. Many of her current tasks include working directly with corporate leadership to communicate current and trending news for the company that involves media outlets in both the local and national markets. Casey has worked with HealthSouth’s development team and other departments to bring more than ten new hospitals and acquisitions to the HealthSouth network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and was part of the team that redesigned the corporate website and the team that redesigned more than 100 HealthSouth hospital websites across the country. Casey’s public relations work on the company’s Amputees Across America program received a Public Relations Council of Alabama Medallion Award and a Public Relations Society of America Award of Excellence Silver Anvil Award.
Early Birds Register and Pay by Friday Noon Jan. 16: Members $20, Guests $30, Students $10
After Friday Noon Jan. 16: Members $30, Guests $40, Students $15
**Early Bird prices accepted at the door for company checks and student cash.

October Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Cindy Fisher Crawford- Editor, Birmingham Business Journal
“What News is HOT in Birmingham”
Cindy Fisher Crawford will delve into the numbers of online readership to show which stories get the most interest from Birmingham business leaders. And, she will share how that information can help marketing professionals make smarter branding decisions.
Cindy Fisher Crawford is editor of the Birmingham Business Journal. In a leadership role at the top business publication in the state for eight years, she has gained inside knowledge and outside perspective on the pulse of the business community. Fisher Crawford will share Birmingham business insights with the AMA chapter on Oct. 21.
Fisher Crawford is a graduate of the University of Alabama and has 17 years of experience in newspapers. She started out her career as a government and education reporter at the Birmingham Post-Herald, where she worked for three years, and then moved to Connecticut to work as a reporter at the Waterbury Republican-American. She later worked for five years at the Daytona Beach News-Journal as a reporter covering governments.
Fisher Crawford, a Tuscaloosa native, returned to her home state to join the Birmingham Business Journal as managing editor in 2007 and was promoted to editor in September 2010. She is the mother of two children ages 8 and 5 and a regular contributor to NPR and Fox 6 news.

AMA August Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Building An Honest Brand – Stay True To Succeed
Presented by Heidi Elnora Baker, President heidi elnora
From a humble beginning to bridal stores across the world, Heidi Elnora Baker has built the acclaimed wedding gown company heidi elnora from the ground up. Her journey began upon graduation from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2002 where Heidi was taught the couture techniques of the fashion industry.
Heidi’s passion for couture and the creation of timeless pieces resulted in the establishment of heidi elnora in 2006. Following the footprints of great designers before her, Heidi’s gowns are recognized by their quality in construction, fine attention to detail, and feminine relevance. Based in Alabama, the heidi elnora brand is focused on being a personal and honest company as they stay true to their Southern roots.
Today, the heidi elnora brand can be found in 25 stores worldwide. With the launch of Heidi’s reality show on TLC debuting Summer 2014, there is a new layer of the heidi elnora brand to be unveiled.

February Marketing Power Lunch
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Digital Storytelling on Steroids: Branded Content Marketing
Guest Speaker: Libby Romano and Lindsey Sims, Big Communications
Join us as Libby and Lindsey share how great stories have the power to create gravity – effortlessly drawing people into brands, whether written, spoken or seen. But if that information isn’t relevant, exciting, timely, and shareworthy, it is a waste of time. Don’t waste time.
Libby Romano, Director of Digital Strategy, and Lindsey Sims, Media Director, played principle roles in evolving Big’s public relations and digital services to meet this new challenge – effectively creating the agency’s content marketing service offerings from the ground up. They’ve been integral in leading the charge on all things content and implementing effective strategies for clients. What started as brand journalism back in 2012 with Big’s Alabama Gulf Seafood and Alabama Department of Commerce campaigns, evolved into a recipe for creating, developing, and delivering compelling branded content. They call it content marketing: digital storytelling on steroids.
Early Birds Register and Pay by Friday Noon February 13: Members $20, Guests $30, Students $10
After Friday Noon February 13: Members $30, Guests $40, Students $15

**Early Bird prices accepted at the door for company checks and students cash.

August Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Keith Richards – A Passion for Cooking and Community
Keith Richards found his passion for Taziki’s and its Greek inspired menu on a 1997 trip to Greece with his wife, Amy. In 1998, they opened their first restaurant at the Colonnade in Birmingham. Today, Taziki’s has 47 locations in 13 states. Today, he is leading the Birmingham-based fast-casual effort, which was recently ranked by Restaurant Business as 13th on their Future 50 List, as well as being named one of the Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises in both 2014 and 2015.
Earlier this year, the United States Healthful Food Council (USHFC) announced Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe’ is the first national franchise to achieve REAL Certification, the emerging national standard for foodservice nutrition and sustainability. Taziki’s is now the largest chain restaurant to complete the certification process.
In building the Taziki’s brand, Keith employs a grass roots marketing strategy to become an integral part of the community. Taziki’s efforts are focused on building genuine relationships to ensure long-term growth, the importance of small businesses supporting their communities and how pursuing passion is the foundation of growing your company.

September Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
Marketing Strategies For Companies In Their Early Stages
Presented by Devon Laney, President & CEO, Innovation Depot
Innovation Depot, Birmingham’s high-tech/biotech business incubator, was named Technology Incubator of the Year in 2011 by the National Business Incubation Association. As Innovation Depot’s President and CEO, Devon Laney offers a unique perspective on marketing strategies that can help early stage companies succeed on a limited budget and with limited internal resources. Prior to joining Innovation Depot in 2005, Devon worked on a broad range of marketing, I/T and strategic organizational projects with various Fortune 500 companies as an analyst with Accenture LLP in Atlanta. Previously, Devon worked on the development, redesign and launch of Energen Corporation’s intranet, and also served as the Entertainment Editor for nationally distributed Family Issues Magazine. Devon is the youngest member to ever serve on the Executive Committee of the Birmingham Venture Club, and the organization’s only consecutive back-to-back President. Additionally, Devon serves on the Executive Committees of TechBirmingham and BioAlabama, and he also serves on the Local Advisory Board of BBVA Compass Bank and The Alys Stephens Center Young Patrons Board. Devon is a member of the 2008 inaugural class of Leadership UAB, Leadership Birmingham’s 2010 class, and the Rotary Club of Birmingham. In 2009, Devon was selected as one of Birmingham Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40”. Power Networking starts at 11:30 am, Keynote Program is from Noon – 1:30pm REGISTER HERE

March Power Marketing Luncheon
2017-02-15 11:30 - 13:00
The Next Frontier of Marketing: Human Engagement
Presented by John Gardner, Luckie & Company The proliferation of technology, data and connectivity has accelerated and amplified every aspect of the marketing ecosystem, helping us as marketers optimize all our marketing processes. But, is that good news for the customer? In our zeal to serve up highly optimized propositions, have we gone too far? Statistics show that the effectiveness of marketing has never been lower while the attitudes of consumers toward marketers have never been worse. Have we become our own worst enemy in the pursuit of ROI?
John Gardner recognized the need to set his agency on a new path, to pioneer an approach for his clients that would help them recapture the love and support of their customers.
John calls this revolutionary approach “the human experience” because as humans, we all care about the entire brand experience, not just sales or service. Engagement and response are optimized by what is best for the customer – not for the organization. In this new paradigm, brands must first get much closer to their customers and listen to and engage with them over time and across channels and media.
Join us as John shares the new path he has forged for his agency called “the human experience” and how you might start to think about your marketing efforts in a whole new way that will separate your brand from the herd.
About John Gardner
John Gardner was named president of Luckie in 2013. John has worked with some of the top brands in the country, including Regions, Chick-fil-A, Marriott, Kohl’s, Saks, Disney, Liz Claiborne, AT&T, Nestlé, L’Oréal, Lane Bryant, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis and Pfizer.

Early Birds Register and Pay by Friday Noon, March 13: Members $20, Guests $30, Students $10
After Friday Noon, March 13: Members $30, Guests $40, Students $15
**Early Bird prices accepted at the door for company checks and students cash.
