Society for Marketing Professional Services (Florida Chapters): Where Strategy Meets Creativity: A Spotlight on SMPS and What’s Ahead

The Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) is a powerful and diverse network, connecting thousands of marketing and business development professionals in 58 chapters throughout the U.S. and Canada. With the vision of transforming business through marketing leadership, this network serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and achieving success for the communities we serve daily.

The Tampa Bay chapter of SMPS is a vibrant and influential network for AEC professionals spanning all stages of their careers. Members are encouraged to build lasting working relationships that can foster firm partnerships, organize industry events that bring clients and consultants together, and continually embrace new learning opportunities. Our members are the cornerstone of any chapter's success; several new SMPS members are sharing their experiences so far with the organization.

I have found in the short time I have been with SMPS that people are very friendly and welcoming. It seems to be a wonderful community full of people willing to help each other grow. I am looking forward to monthly coffee connections, Adobe InDesign courses, and other e-learning and networking opportunities. As a new Business Development employee, SMPS has great tools to help me learn the industry and I look forward to getting to know other members.

— ALYSSA LONG Business Development | Long and Associates

I left teaching to enter the AEC industry in the marketing sector, and SMPS has been a friendly presence throughout my continued introduction to all things marketing, and I am eager to attend more events in the coming months as I grow my career. I have felt that they truly want the best for all marketers in Tampa just through their website/ social media/emails and look forward to building connections.

— SARAH HEAD Proposal Coordinator | Halff

Joining SMPS and becoming involved with the local chapter was a pivotal step in my professional growth. I was a onewoman marketing department at a small firm, where marketing and proposal development had previously been handled by principals. SMPS provided access to professional training and insights on industry best practices. It also allowed me to build relationships with more seasoned AEC marketers who provided advice on how to handle difficult situations, critical professional training, and insights into industry best practices.

— KASSIA ALAMM Director of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs | Lakeland Chamber of Commerce

Since joining SMPS, I've seen significant growth in my professional development. The organization has been essential during my transition from individual contributor to the Director of Marketing, providing not just a network, but a true community of supportive professionals who quickly became trusted colleagues and friends. Through SMPS, I've gained access to valuable industry best practices that prepared me to achieve my CPSM (Certified Professional Services Marketer) certification. I am SO grateful to be part of this dynamic organization that consistently elevates the marketing profession within the AEC industry.

— LISSETTE CALLEJAS CPSM, Director of Marketing | Sweet Sparkman

I joined SMPS shortly after starting my first job out of college, in a brand-new industry. After two years, I can confidently say that SMPS has been a great platform for my professional development. By getting involved with events and networking with other experienced members, I was able to envision all the potential career opportunities in AEC marketing. The unwavering support and guidance from fellow members further encouraged me to pursue my master’s in business administration with a specialty in digital marketing and marketing strategy. SMPS is invaluable to any new marketer and will continue to be my go-to professional development resource for years to come.

— AMANDA HAMENDE Marketing Coordinator | Patel, Greene and Associates

The Strategic Value Of SMPS Membership For AEC Firms

SMPS is essential for businesses in the AEC industry because it equips marketing leaders with the tools, skills and connections needed to drive growth and success. Through professional development programs, certifications, and access to industry best practices, SMPS helps marketers stay ahead of trends and refine strategies that directly benefit their firms.

The extensive networking opportunities strengthen relationships with peers, clients, and industry influencers, enhancing visibility and creating new business opportunities. Membership also demonstrates a firm’s commitment to employee development, aiding in talent recruitment and retention. By advocating for the critical role of marketing, SMPS helps firms integrate marketing into their strategic goals, ultimately contributing to winning new projects, building client relationships, and ensuring long-term success.

SMPS Tampa Bay is ready for an exceptional year ahead, building on the remarkable growth, engagement, and enthusiasm we have cultivated over the past few years. As we step into 2024-2025, we are excited to accelerate this momentum with a dynamic and forward-thinking strategic plan centered around three core pillars:

• Mentorship & Professional Development: Delivering meaningful opportunities for entry-level marketers to grow and thrive within the A/E/C industry.

• Leadership Resource Hub: Becoming a go-to resource for marketing and business development leaders seeking guidance, tools, and inspiration.

• Elevating AEC Marketers: Advocating for the critical role of marketing professionals while fostering collaboration across the industry.

These pillars go beyond simple goals; they embody SMPS Tampa Bay’s dedication to meeting the unique needs of our members. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we create a robust network that empowers members, associated firms, and clients to drive innovation and achieve growth.

We invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Stay connected by following us on LinkedIn and attending one of our upcoming events. Your active participation strengthens our network, builds lasting community connections, and enriches the AEC industry as a whole. Together, we can accomplish great things!