We’re pleased to introduce Mary Norton, Sundt’s marketing manager. Mary has a bachelor’s degree in marketing and has worked as a marketing professional for the past 35 years in the retail, resort, golf management and construction industries. She came to Sundt five years ago and was recently promoted to her current position. Mary is a native New Yorker who moved to Arizona 20 years ago. We recently asked her a few questions to get to know her better.
What brought you to Sundt?
I’m actually one of many employee-owners called a “re-tread.” I worked here eight years ago in marketing and left to get my real estate license. Disenchanted with the real estate field, I then came back three years ago because Sundt is just that good. The Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and the company’s legacy are what brought me back.
What’s a typical work day like for you as marketing manager?
My day is spent reviewing new hire resumes, managing the proposal process, managing both the customer relationship management and photo library databases and teaching new hires how to use them, attending business development meetings, getting special projects assigned, etc. It’s very diverse, which makes it exciting!
What are your job’s biggest challenges and rewards?
The biggest challenge is ensuring that the highest quality proposals are submitted for new work pursuits. We’ve had a great year, but we can always get better! The biggest reward is when we get selected for a project; then, we all celebrate because it’s a team effort.
What might you be doing if you weren’t working in construction?
If I wasn’t at Sundt I’d be teaching the ancient art of calligraphy – it’s my life-long passion.
Favorite type of cuisine?
My favorite is Italian. I sometimes think I was Italian in a past life!
Best book you read recently?
I just finished reading the thriller Gone Girl. I can’t wait to see the movie!
Who has had the most influence on you, and why?
That would be my father, John, who will be 83 in December. He always told us to “be honest above all and keep a solid work ethic, and everything else will fall in place.” He and my mother raised six children who have integrity and successful careers, and have managed to raise their own happy families. Although we’re not rich monetarily, we are in love and respect!
Where would you most like to travel?
Italy and Ireland are at the top of my list, along with the Canadian Rockies.
Favorite quote or inspirational saying?
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt. How true!
How do you like to spend your free time?
Playing golf, calligraphy, going to the beach as much as possible, and playing with our grandson.