University of South Dakota

Lauren Leddy

Integrated Marketing Services, Bentonville, AR,
Account Coordinator Walmart Team
 

Hometown: Milbank, SD
Graduation, 2011
Degree/Major:  Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Marketing

Professional Profile
After graduating I was hired by Integrated Marketing Services, a marketing company within the Consumer Packaged Goods Industry.  I was first placed into their Leadership Development Program being groomed for a future leadership role. I got experience networking with company executives and peers, working on vertical research projects, and completing a leadership development curriculum.  This was all in addition to my everyday job.  The program was a great experience. I was able to see first-hand the value that they placed on my career and what will be expected of me in the future.      

I am currently located in Bentonville, AR working with the world's largest retailer, Walmart.  My team manages all of the in-store demonstrations, including food and general merchandise items, within Walmart. My job includes analyzing retail data to generate retail successes and identify opportunities, project planning, researching and creating event training manuals for brands, and supporting the field teams in execution of brand events. I also travel all over the U.S. working with field teams and looking for ways to better our processes. 

Internships
I completed two internships:  Game Day Intern – Sioux Falls Canaries (now Pheasants) and State Farm Insurance. 

Both internships taught me many transferrable and professional skills. I got to see two different sides of marketing.  With the Sioux Falls Canaries, I got to experience the promotion and execution side of marketing.  I interacted with customers and enhanced the "fan experience."  With State Farm I got to experience the planning and business side of marketing for State Farm Insurance Agents. I was able to gain different transferrable skill sets that have helped set me apart in my current career.     

How Did Beacom Prepare Me For Success?
At Beacom I learned quickly that students are expected to participate in class discussions. Although at first intimidating, it helped prepare me for my career. Being expected to be prepared and form educated opinions is a very real-world lesson.  In my career I am expected to be informed, engaged, and ready to participate every day. Learning to speak up and be confident has been essential in my career.     

The professors and staff at Beacom are so great! They take an interest in your education and know you by name.  I was able to form relationships with all of my professors.  Knowing that the faculty is invested in your education is a big encouragement.    

At Beacom I learned quickly that students are expected to participate in class discussions...In my career I am expected to be informed, engaged, and ready to participate every day. Learning to speak up and be confident has been essential in my career.  

Want to learn how you can get a Business Degree at USD?

• USD's Admissions website for an overview of Beacom's academic programs, visiting campus, cost and aid, campus life and more.
• Beacom School of Business - Undergraduate Programs for pre-major information and admissions requirements.
• Beacom School of Business - Graduate Programs for degree information and admissions procedures.