In a recent interview with Chris Goodman, we got a glimpse into his fascinating career path and the choices he made along the way. Chris’s journey took him from aspiring to be a professional baseball player to becoming a prominent figure in the marketing world.
Chris’s journey began with dreams of playing professional baseball after high school. He pursued his passion through various avenues, attending Virginia Tech, transferring to a community college, and eventually graduating from Cornell. Although he didn’t make it to the major leagues, Chris found a new passion in marketing, which he embraced wholeheartedly. He pursued a graduate degree at Columbia, aiming to work in management consulting or marketing for renowned firms like Pepsi or Procter & Gamble. However, fate had different plans for him when a friend suggested he explore working in an ad agency. Intrigued by the opportunity to combine management consulting and brand marketing, Chris agreed to interview at Young and Rubicam, one of the largest global ad agencies.
Chris’s career continued to evolve as he explored client-side roles, eventually joining Anderson Consulting. His expertise and passion for the industry led him to the largest sports and entertainment agency in the world, IMG, where he ran their global consulting group. Chris’s journey took another turn when he joined KPMG, initially unsure if it was the right fit for him. However, a meeting with the chairman of KPMG and the positive experiences he had with the people at the company convinced him otherwise. Chris spent over nine years at KPMG, further solidifying his reputation and expertise in the marketing field. Throughout his career, Chris emphasized the importance of aligning personal enjoyment with professional expertise, working with strong leadership teams, and embracing a learning culture. These principles guided his career choices and continue to be front and center as he looks toward his next role.
Chris Goodman’s journey from aspiring baseball player to accomplished marketing professional is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a passion-driven career. By embracing new opportunities, building strong networks, and continuously seeking personal and professional growth, Chris has enjoyed a fulfilling and successful career in the dynamic world of marketing. As he continues to shape his path, Chris’s wisdom and advice serve as valuable guideposts for individuals at any stage of their career, reminding us to do what we love, surround ourselves with inspiring people, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning. If you would like to connect with Chris, he can be reached on LinkedIn.
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