Alissa Ricci
Director of Strategic Marketing

What got you started in advertising?

It was almost accidental. I was an Exercise Sport Science major when I began college with the goal of working with athletes in a training/physical fitness role. But two years in, I decided I enjoyed fitness more as a hobby and not as a career. I decided to switch majors and give Business a try. I was accepted into the College of Business, but I needed to pick an emphasis. My husband suggested marketing, so I took a few marketing classes. I was instantly hooked and it has been my passion ever since.

Who was a big influence in your career?

My husband. Not only because he is the one that got me started in marketing, but because he believes in my abilities. He is encouraging and very supportive of my career goals.

What was "your finest moment," the thing you're most proud of?

Up until a year ago I would have listed a professional achievement here, but I became a mom just about a year ago, and that is definitely what I am most proud of.

What was your most embarrassing moment in this business?

Knock-on-wood, I haven't had any embarrassing moments.

Is there a great client story you'd care to share?

I don't have any one specific story, but anytime a client says, "Thank you" and that they appreciate my help, it feels like I am doing what I set out to do, which is help people.

What attracted you to Ovation?

What's not to love? There are so many great attributes that Ovation has to offer. Ovation is a premier full service advertising agency. The people here are so talented and there is so much to learn from everyone. You are encouraged to continually better yourself through experience and education. Ovation promotes a balanced healthy lifestyle. I am very proud to be a part of this team.

How do you come up with ideas and solutions for clients?

By listening to the client's needs and wants. By taking the time to really listen to the client you are able to see things in their words and through their eyes. It helps you get a better understanding of where they want to be. After you have that understanding together you can arrive at the best solution.

What makes a great brand?

That disappointed feeling you get when you go to a store and they are out of what you came to buy. No substitute will do, so you actually drive to another store to find it.

What driving career goals do you still have?

I want to continue to learn and have fun. I don't have a specific title in mind that I am trying to achieve, but rather I base my success on how happy my employer and clients are with me.

What's your biggest pet peeve? (work or personal)

Negative attitudes. Why waste time and energy on being negative? Life is what you make of it.

What's the most important thing you've learned about advertising?

The goal of advertising is still the same; satisfying a customer's need or want. How you achieve the goal is what changes. I sometimes think that the more it changes or evolves, the more it stays the same.

What talent do you wish you had?

I wish I could sing. I love to sing along with the radio and when my husband is with me in the car, he turns the station when I start to sing along with a song. He is very subtle isn't he?

If you had to live on a desert island, what would you miss most?

My husband and daughter are the obvious answers. But besides them I would have to say lotion. I hate dry skin.

What can't you live without?

My husband and daughter.

What are your plans for after advertising?

I guess that would mean retirement so my husband and I plan to golf in the summer, ski in the winter and travel in between.

Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?

A single shot skim latte and a cranberry orange scone from Caribou Coffee. I am good to go once I have my Caribou fix.

What's your favorite sports team?

There is a three way tie between the Vikings, Brewers and Badgers. I love all sports so I can't choose just one team.

If you could spend a day with any person, living or dead, who would it be and what would you do?

Tiger Woods. I could really use some advice on my short game and putting.

What's your point of view about politics?

I avoid discussing politics whenever possible.

Do you have any pets?

Nope

What was growing up like for you?

I had a wonderful childhood. I have 2 older brothers, one older sister and two great parents. We spent a lot of time together. I am blessed to have such a wonderful and supportive family.

What do you for a good time when you're not working?

I spend time with my hubby and daughter. We like to do as much family stuff as possible. Besides that I enjoy working out, running, yoga, golfing, skiing, watching sports, and relaxing on our deck looking at the bluffs and sipping a nice glass of red wine with my husband at sunset.

Do you have any kids?

Yes, a beautiful little girl named Natalya.

What advertising/catalogs do you most admire?

For advertising campaigns, I like Nike, Reebok and Under Armour. I also like Pottery Barn's catalog.

What are your favorite internet sites?

This list could get out of hand pretty quick since I love to shop online. Here are a few of my favorites; overstock, target, msn, Pandora, weather, espn, pgatour, yogajournal, fitness, babyzone, and ivillage.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Italy!!!!
I enjoy eating and I can only imagine how wonderful the food must be. I am sure the wine isn't half bad either. The scenery and architecture look breath taking in pictures, so in person they must be amazing.