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Susan Mcim
Marketing Communications. Education. Co- Founder ISA- International School of Advertising, Founder Progress Partners
Professional Background
Susan Mcim boasts over 20 years of extensive experience in marketing communications, navigating a remarkable career that seamlessly bridges the 'client' and 'agency' perspectives. This unique vantage point not only enriches her understanding of the industry but has also fueled her passion for addressing skill-gap challenges commonly faced by fresh graduates.
In 2016, Susan took a bold step to launch the International School of Advertising (ISA), a professional development academy dedicated to bridging the divide between academic preparation and the demands of the dynamic marketing industry. Under her leadership, ISA provides cutting-edge training in advertising, marketing, public relations, media, digital, and direct marketing. The organization's innovative programs are designed to equip graduates with both the hard and soft skills necessary for the job market, ensuring they are 'work-ready' and capable of thriving in diverse professional environments.
Susan's vision for ISA reflects her commitment to enhancing emotional intelligence alongside technical proficiencies, a combination that is critical in today’s professional landscape. Beyond supporting fresh graduates, ISA also empowers professionals looking to up-skill through various programs, including collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) in the UK, masterclasses, short courses, and bespoke workshops tailored to meet the specific needs of organizations.
Education and Achievements
Susan's educational journey is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She is a graduate of the prestigious Nairobi University, where she earned her MBA in Marketing and Strategic Management, solidifying her foundation in commercial expertise. Additionally, she possesses an enriching background in Education with a Bachelor’s degree in Business/Managerial Economics from Kenyatta University.
Susan further honed her skills by pursuing studies at the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) and advanced professional management development at Strathmore Business School. Her diverse educational endeavors reflect her commitment to continuous learning and development, crucial traits in the ever-evolving field of marketing communications.
Susan has also served on several advisory teams focusing on curriculum development, showcasing her dedication to cultivating future talent in the marketing realm. Her involvement with organizations like the Kenya Private Sector Alliance and Strathmore University speaks to her influence in shaping relevant and impactful marketing education.
Notable Positions and Contributions
Throughout her illustrious career, Susan has held several notable positions in leading advertising firms, allowing her to cultivate a rich understanding of the marketing ecosystem. As a co-founder of ISA Africa, she has been instrumental in driving the organization's mission to empower individuals with industry-leading skills.
Previously, Susan was the General Manager at Redsky Advertising, where she led successful campaigns and contributed to the growth of the agency. Her prior experience as Business Unit Director at Ogilvy Advertising and Account Director at TBWA Redsky further established her reputation as a skilled leader in brand communications.
Susan began her professional journey with roles dedicated to marketing, including positions as Marketing Coordinator at Mabati Rolling Mills Ltd and Marketing Representative at Mobil Oil. Through these varied experiences, she has developed a versatile skill set that enriches her teaching and leadership at ISA.
Susan also plays an active role in industry advocacy by sitting on the Association of Practitioners in Advertising council, lending her voice to pivotal discussions that shape the advertising landscape in Kenya. Her contributions go beyond her professional roles, as she frequently conducts workshops for organizations focused on brand communications, further demonstrating her commitment to industry excellence and knowledge sharing.
