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Marques Zak
Multicultural Marketer - Morehouse Man - Cornell MBA
Professional Background
Marques E. Zak is a dynamic and innovative strategist and brand builder who has made significant strides in the field of marketing and cultural engagement. As the current Director of Cultural Platforms at American Express, Marques is at the forefront of a vital mission – creating genuine connections between the American Express brand and multicultural communities. His role encompasses not only the development and execution of strategic initiatives but also crafting authentic consumer experiences that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. Through his work, Marques aims to highlight the relevance of American Express in these communities, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.
Marques's extensive experience in strategic brand management and partnerships has furthered his expertise with one of the most recognized global financial services brands in the world. Prior to joining American Express, he dedicated nearly a decade to PepsiCo, where he was instrumental in driving growth for the Frito-Lay North America business. During his time at PepsiCo, Marques's responsibilities evolved through various executive roles, including Customer Management Director, Senior Key Account Manager, and Business Development Manager. His strategic insights and innovative approaches were not only pivotal in achieving business objectives but also in enhancing the company’s commitment to Diversity & Inclusion.
In recognition of his impactful contributions to shaping diversity recruiting efforts and advancing the D&I strategy at PepsiCo, Marques was honored with the prestigious PepsiCo Global Harvey C. Russell Inclusion Award. This accolade underscores his dedication to building a more equitable workplace, showcasing that business success and inclusivity can go hand in hand.
Before embarking on his journey with PepsiCo, Marques gained valuable insights as a Strategy Consultant at Deloitte Consulting. This role advanced his foundational knowledge of strategic planning and positional business improvements, which he later utilized in his marketing and brand-building career. His time at Deloitte honed his analytical skills and strategic thinking, providing a solid toolkit for business transformation efforts.
Education and Achievements
Marques's academic background reflects his commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. He is a proud graduate of Morehouse College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, a testament to his academic achievements and leadership capabilities. Following his undergraduate studies, Marques pursued further education by earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategy and Global Business from the Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management. This advanced learning paved the way for him to implement innovative strategies in his professional career.
Additionally, Marques has enriched his educational portfolio with various executive programs and courses at distinguished institutions, underscoring his commitment to personal and professional growth. He has studied at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, enhancing his understanding of global finance and business leadership.
Marques’s blend of academic credentials, coupled with his deep industry knowledge, positions him as a thought leader in the realms of strategy, marketing, and cultural engagement. His ability to understand consumer behavior and leverage cultural insights is a key element of his professional identity.
Achievements
Marques Zak's career is marked by several notable achievements that underline his exceptional capabilities in business strategy and community engagement:
- PepsiCo Global Harvey C. Russell Inclusion Award: Recognized for his exemplary leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization, showcasing his commitment to equity in the workplace.
- Strategic Leadership in Brand Development: Instrumental in shaping the brand strategies that enhanced PepsiCo's connection with diverse consumer bases, leveraging cultural insights to drive growth and engagement.
- Innovative Connections at American Express: As Director of Cultural Platforms, Marques has been pivotal in redefining how American Express interacts with diverse communities, making significant strides in brand relevancy and engagement.
- Thought Leadership in Consulting: As a former strategy consultant with Deloitte, Marques assisted several high-profile clients in navigating complex market challenges, highlighting his strategic acumen and ability to deliver impactful business solutions.
These achievements, alongside his dedication to fostering inclusive environments and leveraging culture in brand strategy, exemplify Marques’s standing as a leader in the field. His career journey is not just about professional milestones but also about making a significant positive impact within the organizational culture and broader community.
In conclusion, Marques E. Zak personifies the ideal blend of a strategic thinker, cultural ambassador, and effective brand builder. With a passion for connecting with consumers and a commitment to inclusion and diversity, Marques continues to shape the narratives around brands, ensuring they resonate with the evolving demographic landscape. As he forges ahead in his career, his ethos of leveraging culture to empower communities remains at the core of his professional endeavors.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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