AMA SF Members, Supporters, and Bay Area Marketing Community,

Recently, I took the reins of the AMA San Francisco chapter. It is a big honor and a huge responsibility, one that I take very seriously. I have been fortunate to work and lead world-class teams and organizations; however, this is a challenge like no other. It’s my first time leading a volunteer-based professional organization, and the fact that it is an organization with an impressive 85-year history of serving the Bay Area marketing community has me humbled, excited, and, to be honest, a little scared.

The challenge feels even more significant now, as things start to open up and we all try and work out what the new normal will be. What I do know is that AMA SF will be there to keep supporting the local Bay Area marketing community, looking for ways to help our members and sponsors come back stronger, and providing ways for the community to stay connected. With this in mind, I’m excited to announce our Chapter’s theme for the 2021-2022 board year: Reactivate and Reconnect. 

What does Reactivate and Reconnect mean?

First, it means providing our members with ways to reconnect to expand and cultivate their professional network. We will do this through our regular topical seminars and lively networking events, both online and in-person, as soon as appropriate. Stay tuned!

It also means giving our members opportunities to reactivate their careers, which we’ll continue to do by providing access to the wealth of professional development and career-advancing resources. Additionally, I am thrilled to inform you we will be piloting a new mentorship program this year. More information to come on this shortly!

And finally, it means reconnecting with our broader local community to support those who continue to face difficulties as we emerge from a challenging period. One way we’ll do this is to partner with a different local nonprofit each quarter to spotlight the vital work they do in the community and promote ways we can all help.

The AMA SF is here to help and support the Bay Area marketing community; however, this would not be possible without the help of professionals that donate their time, talent, and effort to give back. This experience goes beyond the reward of helping others; it provides opportunities to expand networks and knowledge. In addition, to offering the chance to learn new skills and work on something a little different.

Interested in joining the team? We have openings on a number of our committees, as well as our board of directors. Check out our openings, which include: VP of Sponsorship, VP of Programming, Director of Community Outreach, and more.

I want to close by encouraging you – in whatever way, shape, or form is right for you – to Reactivate and Reconnect with AMA SF and your Bay Area marketing community over the year ahead. Together, we’ll not just build a stronger community but a better Bay Area.

You can learn more about our mission and our programs by visiting www.amasf.org or emailing me at gerardo.garciajurado@amasf.org.

Thank you.

Gerardo Garcia-Jurado
President, AMA San Francisco and Bay Area