Jake Maines
27, Creative Director with Array Digital, Chesapeake
Business and Civic Involvement:
American Marketing Association Hampton Roads President-elect and Vice President of Partnerships; Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore Volunteer
What is something that makes you stand out professionally?
What sets me apart is my drive. I want my company and my clients to see as much success as possible, so I push myself and my team to make that happen.
Who or what keeps you motivated or inspires you?
From a young age, whenever I’d become interested in something, I would dive headfirst and be incredibly motivated to be the best at it. That work ethic is something my parents instilled in me. They are some of the hardest working people I know, and they inspire me to always shoot for the stars.
Tell us about an accomplishment that you’re proud of.
This year I started to incorporate running into my workouts. In the beginning, running just one mile was almost unbearable. But after a few months, I was able to run a half marathon.
How do you feel your industry can best respond to the effects of COVID-19?
Times like these are the perfect example of how quickly the norm can shift. Adapting to the changes in consumer behavior is one of the most important things that marketers and business owners have to do.
What new idea or development are you excited about in Coastal Virginia?
This year has been bizarre, but I am impressed and excited about how businesses in the area are finding new ways to satisfy customers’ needs and banding together to protect the community.
What’s the most important aspect you look for in a workplace?
Having a great company culture makes all the difference in a workplace. I genuinely enjoy Array Digital because of the strong team I work with.
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current position?
If I weren’t working in digital marketing, I’d be a scuba diving instructor somewhere in the Caribbean!
What’s your favorite spot to relax in Coastal Virginia?
My favorite place to be is on my surfboard a few hundred yards out in the ocean near the 15th Street pier.