SMPS Boston Member Spotlight: Benjamin Sawa
Posted on May. 19, 2023 / Member Spotlight / Subscribe 0
Our Member Spotlight Blog serves as a platform to welcome new members to SMPS Boston and highlight our established members within the A/E/C community. This week, we're getting to know Benjamin Sawa, Vice President, Corporate Development at GEI Consultants.
Name: Benjamin Sawa
Company: GEI Consultants
Title: Vice President, Corporate Development
Years Involved in SMPS: 15
What SMPS committees are you involved with, if any? Currently serving on SMPS’s National Board of Directors
Why did you decide to join SMPS?
Well actually, I don't think I ever had the option, someone at GEI told me I was becoming a member when I first joined our marketing group and presented me with the application form on my first day, ha! But I’m eternally grateful for that opportunity as I quickly learned the value of being an SMPS member and the impact it could have on my career. It certainly was a bit overwhelming at first, but the welcoming and inclusive nature of this organization is unlike any in our industry. People are always willing to help, mentor and connect you to others to help you grow and learn.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining SMPS?
SMPS is truly an outstanding organization and one that can provide immense benefits both personally and professionally. When you look at some of the leaders in marketing and business development across our industry you often find that they all have one thing in common - they have spent years as SMPS members and volunteers. I believe that is one of the best investments that a marketer can make in their learning and long-term career development. So my suggestion is to attend a few events, reach out and talk to current members (they are always willing and wanting to help) and learn about ways that you can get more involved!
What do you work toward in your free time?
I enjoy traveling, cooking and spending time outside as much as possible. Living my entire life here in New England, I know how short our summers can be, so we are hoping to make the most of it this year!
What are you currently watching, reading, or listening to?
I've been reading and listening to Warren Buffet and Charlie Mungers’s annual shareholder meetings and letters most recently. They are both extraordinary individuals who at the young ages of 92 and 99 respectively, have a tremendous amount of wisdom and experience to pass on (both in business and in life!). Highly suggest listening or reading their annual letters to shareholders as there are several things we can learn from them and apply to our industry.
If you are interested in being featured in an upcoming spotlight or would like to nominate a member, please reach out to Ethan Olkovikas, SMPS Boston Membership Committee Member, at [email protected], or Jenn Robertson, SMPS Boston Blog Manager, at [email protected].
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