Congrats to the founders of Black Glass
Katie Klumper
Fast Co Most Innovative Marketer + AdWeek 50 Most Indispensable Media Execs + CEO + Board Member
2 years ago.
It is hard to believe, we are looking back at a dream that started 2 years ago today. The world has changed, we have changed, and a big giant dream made its way into this world.
Today, I want to share a massive amount of gratitude, admiration and appreciation to each one of you who have helped make this continued journey possible. It started off as a nugget of an idea: there must be a better way, CMO’s deserve better, talent deserves better, we can leave a better legacy.
A dream that brought the “head” of consulting and the “heart” of a community under one roof. A personal passion for CMO’s as our friends, family and individuals we care so deeply about. This dream was brought to bear because of you. People who believed in me, our ambition and each other. ?
This business was built 10 days before lockdown, with a pop-up desk from Amazon sandwiched between my bed and bathroom, with 2 homeschooled children and an incredible network of believers. Two years later, we are beyond thriving and have hit a product market fit that is needed today more than ever before.
What I love the most; ?the family of people I get to work alongside every day. A collection of my most favorite individuals I get to laugh, cry, learn and grow with every day. We all read articles about the importance of purpose, culture, trust, psychological safety: I feel so privileged to lead a team that continues to pave the way for better. You keep me honest and make me a better leader. Thank you for trusting me with your purpose. As the team says (and if you are lucky enough to have the sweater) #bitchIgotyourback.
2 years later I have nothing but joy. Don’t get me wrong – it is hard, really really hard. The highs and lows of being an entrepreneur with a black piece of paper in front of you is real, but also really worth it. I would not have it any other way, to stand alongside some of the greatest marketers in the industry hands down. A giant thank you to my community who stood alongside me, I consider you all founders of Black Glass. Our success and growth is all attributed to your greatness and generosity.
This is just the beginning of Black Glass and know there are many more incredible chapters in this book.
Mat Baxter, as one of the bravest leaders I am grateful to learn from every day. You co-created our ambition and continue to fight for it.
Phillip Bussey, for jumping in, making us a LLC, writing proposals and lifting this business off the ground. You are the OG.
Dan Rubin, for asking every week if there was new business in the politest way possible and giving a bird room to fly.
Stephanie Solomon, as a true talent partner navigating complex times for a start-up. Shit. Got Real.
Amy Armstrong, for your brilliance both EQ and IQ as my mentor and rock.
Clay Parker Jones, as employee #1 and carrying this torch with me, EVERY Every every step of the way.
Roy Lee, who leapt with us and is now flying into new and incredible places
Cifra (you are as famous as all the celebs with one name) as my partner in life, I am grateful for every moment I get to stand alongside your greatness, you make us all better. Every. Single. Day.
Maureen Link, who said yes (to the dress) and continues to raise the bar for all of us. Thank you for making this all real; cmo house, website, inhouse agency practice. I adore you.
Michael Jobst, for being our advocate, understanding what we do and the importance of it to all our clients.
Jenny Rooney, as my CMO partner in crime. It was meant to be from day one and love every minute we get to build together. You are a joy.
Philippe Krakowsky, for believing in the dream and doubling down on us as an importance piece to the IPG offering.
Kate MacNevin, for your investment in me and Black Glass. You believed from day 1 and are one of the most brilliant leaders I learn from every day.
Matt Weiss, where to begin friend. You are the definition of a female ally. You raise me up, you see ahead of corners and make me a better person and mother.
Jason Moyer, for your partnership and getting us to this point. Your friendship is something I will always cherish.
Daryl Lee, for your kindness and support even when it was not easy. You put the person first. Grateful for your commitment to the Black Glass dream.
Shivan Durbal, who teaches us all to be better marketers and business builders. You lean in, without question and fill all our gaps.
Aaron Lavin, on an 18 month journey, who has resilience, perseverance and commitment as a true partner. Great things ahead.
Evan Slater, who has helped us brand, rebrand and rebrand again to ensure we got it, just right.
Stephanie Eaddy, to keeping us honest, real, vulnerable and true. Your humanity knows no bounds.
Liz Pitonyak, who drove impact within hours of joining. Your creativity, vision and drive makes us all better.
Mckenna Robenalt, for your continued push to be brilliant. Your structure to our passion makes us a dangerous combo.
Jess Germain, as a superhero in connecting dots and keeping us all moving. It does not go unnoticed.
Julia Mae Bansil, for your optimism, positivity and proactivity #taco. Your spirit is infectious.
Shauna Gleason, for making our greatness known to the world.
Maria Milliken, who started this journey with me and has been such an advocate to be the ultimate match-maker.
Mike Barrett, for the conversation on the corner of Hudson & Vandam, reminding me of my superpower “you are an entrepreneur, go build your dream”. Thank you for seeing that in me and encouraging me to jump.
Ed Brojerdi, as my professional rock. You have set an example every step of the way of how to be a brilliant business driver for clients.
Cate Luzio, for guiding all my business ideas. What started as a family social club turned into a CMO executive platform & modern consultancy.
Katherine Black, my OG partner. You stood by me (virtually) establishing our initial set of offerings that still hold the test of time. Forever indebted to your brilliance and friendship.
Tim Crowell, my husband, the person who holds us all together. You have made endless sacrifices for my ambitions. You are my co-founder in life and push me everyday to own my purpose and passion. My gratitude and love knows no bounds for you.
A Problem-solver
1 年Katie, thanks for sharing!
Marketing & Data Technologist
2 年Being a part of this was something special. Will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you Katie for believing in me, as I will always believe in you!
such good vibes coming from this team. Congratulations! Definitely chuckled at the Evan comment...
US CEO, KINESSO at IPG Mediabrands
2 年Congrats on 2 years Katie Klumper and team!
Media & Marketing Executive I Strategic advisor l Board member
2 年Congrats Katie Klumper on 2 wonderful action-filled years and on building a terrific team!