Interview with Sarah Ohanesian, Julian Krinsky Camps & Programs

For this year’s International Women’s Day, our team at Slice is proud to celebrate women across the marketing and communications industry through an interview series. Follow along throughout the week leading up to International Women’s Day to read about these inspiring women and their stories.

This interview is with Sarah Ohanesian, the Chief Marketing Officer for Julian Krinsky Camps & Programs, which offers summer camps and programs to students age 5 – 18 on prestigious college campuses.

How do you define your leadership?

I lead my co-workers and teams from a place of service. When I put my team first and work hard to help make them strong and successful, I succeed as a by-product. One way I do this is to focus on leading with clear expectations – when project goals, deadlines, and measurements of success are clear, everyone feels more productive and effective!

How has your leadership changed over the years you’ve been working?

As I’ve matured in my career, I’ve come to realize that good leaders adapt to the needs of the individuals on their team. Everyone works a little differently and that requires different management styles. I pay attention to the kind of management that helps them flourish and lean into that.

Can you share a story that demonstrates a key learning for you in your leadership journey?

Our CEO said to me once “Not everyone works like you.” While I thrive as a type A, process/procedure, checklist-loving worker, it’s not for everyone. His comment really helped me understand that’s it’s ok for people to work differently. Since then, I’ve seen first hand how it’s most beneficial for an organization to have employees of many different work styles!

What role do you think marketing communications should play in the future of your organization or industry?

Communication is everything for brands. Strong brands should always be communicating with their customers in mind first. What’s in it for them? If you aren’t answering that question and focusing too much on yourself, your audience will run away.

What do you think young women entering the marketing communications field should know? What advice do you have for them?

Always keep learning, evolving and being open to what’s new. Marketing is an exciting field that’s constantly changing, but it can be discouraging if you don’t embrace the constant change. Embrace a love of learning. And, don’t be shy to put your hand up to take on new challenges using what you’ve learned.

Interested in more? Check out the full interview series here.