When we first heard there was another Steve joining the marketing team, we weren’t sure how to feel. But then we found out just how much the new Steven loves donuts, and we knew he’d fit right in here. As eCity’s New Senior Marketing Manager, Steven Rivera brings a unique perspective to the table, having worked with the likes of SodaStream, DSW, and McDonald’s. Since joining our team in April, Steven has already put his brand storytelling powers to good use, helping clients intrigue, engage, and connect emotionally with their target audiences. We recently grabbed lunch with our newest team member to learn more about him and his role at eCity. Welcome aboard, Steven!
What is Your Daily Routine at eCity?
I like to get into the office a bit early and ease into the day by catching up with the latest headlines in tech and digital — typically a combo of Mashable, Forbes, and The Hustle. After a quick read, I check my calendar, block off some GSD time, and update my to-dos. By 9 AM, I’m usually on cup two of coffee. It’s off to the races after that, diving into a combo of in-house and client work. Time flies in agency land, so I always try to tailor my days around three principals: evolve, adapt, and, challenge. Evolve by improving on a current skill set. Adapt by learning something new — not always work relevant. Challenge the status quo and move the needle every day.
If you had a week off, you’d spend it…
It’s cliche, but I would spend it traveling with my wife. Domestic or international, it doesn’t matter. There is so much of the world that we’ve yet to see.
Give me a Pearl of Wisdom related to what you do
I really enjoying uncovering client motivations and goals. Understanding what you stand for as a brand, where you want to be 5 or 10 years down the line, or the one thing holding you back from getting to that next level. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day operations of a business that it’s sometimes more difficult to answer these questions than one might like to admit. But getting to know a brand inside and out really allows me to develop more impactful and sustainable strategies that drive business line objectives.
Who or what do you draw inspiration from?
Honestly, I try to learn from every experience or interaction I have. I find that I can be inspired by a simple hallway conversation, unique packaging, a TV spot, etc. But the one thing that proves to be a constant source of inspiration for me is this city — the people, history, and culture. It never lets me down.
What is your favorite TV show?
The Office. “Bears, Beets, Battlestar Galactica.”
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
The power of flight would certainly make seeing the rest of the world much easier (and affordable). Plus…no more traffic.
What has been the highlight of your time here thus far?
The pace. I began my career in a startup environment, and the pace at which we worked was blistering. It’s something you either love or hate – I side with the former.
The Best restaurant in Philadelphia is…
Han Dynasty in Old City.
My go-to order:
- Dan Dan Noodles
- Scallion Pancakes
- Double Cooked Pork Belly
- 2x Tsingtao
Don’t even think about playing with the spice levels. (10)
