Happy Tuesday!
So as you know, I spent the last few days at the Revolt Music Conference down at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach. It was my first time in attendance, and I didn’t know what to expect, but I was blown away by the concerts, dinners, and fabulous events!
One of the absolute highlights of my trip was moderating a panel entitled The Women Behind the Brand, featuring top level female executives from Combs Enterprises.
You may not be aware, but Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’s company is chock full of fierce women in positions of power.
On our illustrious panel was Dia Simms, President of Combs Wine and Spirits.
Ericka M. Pittman, Vice President of the Chairman’s Office of Combs Enterprises.
Erin Harris, Vice President of Vodka for Combs Wine and Spirits.
Marilyn Van Alstyne, CEO of EMVE management group.
And Andrea Sengura, Vice President of Tequila of Combs Wine and Spirits..
Our conversation centered around challenges female executives sometimes face in an industry dominated by men, how to balance being assertive without being labeled a ‘b word,’ how to balance work and family, and how to be the best you can be in your chosen vocation.
A few take aways: take whatever job is offered to you to break into the industry. After enjoying a diverse career path, working for the Department of Defense, advertising sales, and pharmaceuticals, Dia Simms started off at Combs Enterprises as an assistant. Once in the company, she quickly worked her way through the ranks, catapulting to an executive role in less than five years.
Another take away, courtesy of Andrea Sengura: “Don’t be afraid to be brilliant.” Many women tone down their intelligence, in hopes of not offending others. But if you’ve done the work, and have something to contribute, be confident enough to speak up!
When networking, Erin Harris emphasized persistence. People passed out cards with wild abandon at this conference, but few actually followed up. Be the person who takes the next step to send that e-mail or schedule that follow up call. Ericka M. Pittman also brilliantly recommended to send hand written notes to stand out from the crowd.
Lastly, for those ladies balancing both career and family, Dia offered, “be present.” Many women on the panel have families in addition to demanding careers. Simms recommended to stay focused: When you’re with your family, your focus is on family; when you’re at work, it’s all about work!
At any rate, it was a fantastic conversation with a group of smart, ambitious women. They all stand as examples of women worthy of emulation, who have risen to the top through smarts, efficacy, and great conscious decisions in the industry. I was beyond honored to be involved.
I came away from the Revolt Music Conference with even more respect for the Combs brand. A company is nothing without a strong leader and an equally strong leadership team.
What do you think?
*I had many outfits changes during the conference!
Stay tuned for the day by day recap on TheBombLife.com.
Images: Visuals by Pierre