Automation Marketing Manager, StructuredWeb
Matthew A. Thompson, who majored in marketing, moved to New York City soon after graduation. Once there, he landed a job at ALM, a specialized business news and information company largely focused on the legal community. After about a year and a half, he moved to StructuredWeb, a marketing software company that gives global enterprises the tools to collaborate with their partners.Although now in the Big Apple, Thompson has strengthened his ties to The University of Texas at Dallas by organizing a UT Dallas alumni chapter there. “I was amazed by the number of Texans and UT Dallas alumni here,” Thompson says. “Once I learned there wasn’t an established UT Dallas alumni chapter in the New York City area, I went into action. It has proven to be an incredible opportunity for alumni and current students to network, share career opportunities and enrich the UT Dallas brand here.” One activity this past semester was meeting with Davidson Management Honors Program students who were visiting New York City. News of the NYC alumni club activities may be found at the UT Dallas Greater NYC Alumni Chapter Facebook page.
What are your proudest achievements in your professional career?
I hope the current achievements I have pale in comparison of what’s to come. My fingers are crossed. Looking back, what I’m probably most surprised by is moving to New York City, getting a marketing role in a big publishing company (ALM) and working my way to developing the corporate social media strategy. In order to do that, I met with and presented to executives, editors-in-chiefs, publishers and others far beyond my experience level. I would say this was one of my proudest achievements yet, because the corporate world and the New York business environment were completely new to me.
What brought you to UT Dallas?
I came to UT Dallas from Austin. I saw UT Dallas, and still do see it, as an investment. I think the University, now more than ever, is in such a great place for exponential growth.I was particularly piqued by the University’s focus on academic excellence and research, rather than sports or over-the-top school spirit. That’s demonstrated in rankings, the faculty and commitment to research. I hope these continue to be closely held values in an effort for the UT Dallas brand to become more nationally and globally recognized.
What is your favorite UT Dallas memory?
The final group project for my sales class was really great. I really enjoyed working on the project’s elements late into the night, the collaboration of ideas and the fun we had along the way.
Who was your favorite professor and/or what was your favorite class and why?
I had the privilege of learning from some great professors at UT Dallas. While it’s difficult to choose one professor, I’d say Julie Haworth, who is the undergrad marketing program director, was particularly fantastic. She really has a gift for connecting with students and her compassion for their development really shows. A class that comes to mind is International Marketing. The class discussions on current events and modern business issues were certainly memorable. While in that class, I learned of Steve Jobs’ passing, along with the rest of the world. That day, we dedicated the majority of the discussion to his impact on the world and the implications of his death on Apple.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I really enjoy learning new things and putting myself in different environments. It’s how you grow. Some things I often enjoy are traveling, creating music, watching films, trying new restaurants, visiting museums, brunch, seeing live music and comedy. I’ve also started running and training and have participated in 10Ks and half-marathons in New York. Also, through the UT Dallas alumni club, I’ve made some great friends, received invaluable career advice from NYC professionals and have been presented with opportunities that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. I suspect other alumni members have realized similar benefits. It has been a fantastic way to stay in touch with the UT Dallas community and foster professional and personal connections with fellow Comets.
What advice do you have for current students hoping to succeed in the business world?
Always be prepared for opportunity. It will often come from people, places and situations you least expect.
What makes an effective leader?
Effective leaders typically have the boilerplate qualities including being a strong communicator, having confidence, a positive attitude, commitment and the ability to delegate.However, these qualities alone certainly won’t make you a great or even a good leader. The leaders I’ve really been impressed with possess integrity, the ability to inspire, passion, emotional intelligence, curiosity, empathy and a sense of humor.
