Q+A with Laura Bleecker

How do you describe your job to people outside of the industry?

I often receive curious looks after I tell people I’m a Marketing Coordinator in the Architecture / Engineering industry, and they will often ask, “what exactly do you do?”

My go-to response typically involves the storyteller + strategist angle – I work behind the scenes to make sure that we win work for our firm. From the moment we respond to a request for proposal, where a client (or potential client) asks us to provide them with professional architectural and / or engineering services, to final photography after a project is completed, I make sure that our best work is reflected in every brand impression.

From time to time, I hear the clever title “Markitect” thrown around.

Why did you decide to become a marketing coordinator?

I ended up in Marketing as the result of a happy accident.

My degree is in interior design, but when I graduated, the economy was in a downturn. To build up my resume, I did pro bono work that eventually shifted to marketing for the interior design / architecture community, and that led me to my first job where I handled the marketing needs of a commercial flooring company. The rest is history.

How would you describe life at Ghafari?

Adventurous and collaborative! I enjoy working with colleagues in all disciplines at different levels in the organization. From subject matter experts to project managers, each person brings their own perspective and unique working style to the table, which I find refreshing.

Every day brings new challenges and experiences that can help you to grow as a person – both professionally and personally.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened during your time here?

I love the exhilarating thrill of learning that an especially demanding proposal that I’ve worked on is awarded to Ghafari. It never gets old.

I also appreciate those moments when I complete a major side project that will ultimately help the marketing team do their jobs better.

What is a key idea or lesson you have learned while working at Ghafari?

Always, always communicate, and ask questions if you’re unclear on something. It is better to have all the information in order to help everyone understand expectations.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love to craft! I often make personalized décor for my home, and I also scrapbook – my kids are my favorite subjects to photograph. I also enjoy playing board and card games with my family.