The Emerson Group uses its veterans while developing the next generation of leaders

The Emerson Group is passionate about making lasting connections between brands and their target consumers. That mission also mirrors the company’s goals when building its leadership for the future.

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“We look for people who have a love for the industry,” said Matt Poli, VP marketing for The Emerson Group. “We want people to be curious and have a passion — if you have those drives you will be successful.”



With a brimming portfolio of mid-size brands — from majors to emerging — The Emerson Group offers a wealth of opportunities. The company’s unique position as a conduit of business between brands and retailers offers the chance to learn the industry through multiple stakeholder points of view. Unlike larger companies with many layers, The Emerson Group is a lean, decentralized company. “We give autonomy and true decision-making capabilities to the front-line managers working directly with our clients,” Poli added.



Having an active role in an organization is among the top items on the wish list for the next generation of leaders. They want to make an impact and feel they have a say, which is something The Emerson Group continues to foster as it looks ahead.



The Emerson Group’s undergraduate summer internship program is an example of how future leaders are being groomed. The company hires six students each year. Typically, at least one is hired as a full-time employee.



The nature of its business also attracts seasoned industry veterans who love what they do. “Most of our team has at least eight to 12 years of experience in the business; we provide the environment for decision-making and action,” Poli noted. That has built a loyal team with less than 5% turnover.



That said, The Emerson Group’s management team realizes the need to “build a bench,” and efforts are underway to make the company a first career step. Although still in the early stages of gearing up for the future, Poli said the company’s first college graduate joins this year. The skill-set the younger candidates bring includes the knowledge of the digital world, which also is revolutionizing how products go to market. The Emerson Group will merge its sales experience with analytical tools. “We’ll teach college hires the business and marketplace through the lens of IRI,” he said.



In turn, the younger staff will help The Emerson Group understand the new generation of consumers. Millennials, for example, don’t get their information through TV — many don’t even have one. “Millennials are the largest cohort, and if you are reaching them through TV, you are using the wrong medium,” Poli said. Such knowledge will weave together with the rich knowledge of the seasoned team as The Emerson Group evolves.



Moreover, The Emerson Group isn’t just about getting into the door. The company continuously invests in the growth of its team. “Whether it [is] people, infrastructure or technology platforms, we will make the investment providing our people the tools needed ensuring we help our clients achieve their business objectives,” Poli said.