Profiles in Persuasion: Ben Slater
Welcome to Profiles in Persuasion, where we delve into the careers and insights of leading figures in B2B marketing. Today, we are privileged to speak with Ben Slater, a seasoned startup operator and a prominent figure in high-growth, venture-backed B2B marketing. Over the past 15 years, Ben has made significant strides, particularly at Beamery, where he has played a crucial role in transforming the company into a unicorn valued enterprise. His journey is marked by a blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and hands-on marketing expertise.
Host
Tom Gatten, CEO - Adzact
Guest
Ben Slater, SVP Marketing, Beamery
Career Journey and Achievements
Ben's career began in finance and PR, but he soon found his calling in the dynamic world of high-growth, venture-backed startups. Joining Beamery at a very early stage, Ben quickly established himself as a core team member, contributing significantly to the company's growth and success. Ben heads global marketing, guiding Beamery through various phases of growth and adaptation. His leadership has been instrumental in positioning Beamery as a thought leader in the industry, particularly with the introduction of large language model-based tools.
Mission and Impact
A central theme in Ben's career has been his commitment to mission-driven organizations. At Beamery, the guiding mission has been to address inequities in the hiring and talent market. Ben passionately believes that while opportunity is everywhere, it is not equally distributed. His work at Beamery aims to bridge this gap, aligning his personal mission with that of the company.
Challenges and Adaptability
One of the core challenges in high-growth environments is the need for constant adaptation. Ben emphasizes that roles and responsibilities evolve rapidly, often every three to six months. Success in such an environment requires leaders to grow alongside their companies, continuously learning and adapting to new roles and challenges. For Ben, this means letting go of tasks he once enjoyed and focusing on new priorities that align with the company's growth trajectory.
In a high-growth environment, your role changes fundamentally every three to six months. Success requires a leader to grow alongside the company, continuously learning, adapting, and letting go of past responsibilities to embrace new priorities." - Ben Slater
Key Moments and Milestones
Reflecting on his journey, Ben highlights significant milestones such as securing major clients like VMware, Facebook, and Amazon. These wins were not just about revenue; they fundamentally changed how the team viewed their capabilities and the company's potential. These moments of success were crucial in maintaining morale and driving the team forward despite the inherent challenges of startup life.
Strategic Focus and Leadership
Ben advocates for a focused approach to market strategy, emphasizing the importance of choosing battles wisely. In the early stages, it is tempting to chase every opportunity, but true success comes from identifying and concentrating on areas where the company can win most effectively. This strategic discipline helps avoid distractions and ensures sustainable growth.
Influence of Sport on Leadership
Ben draws significant parallels between sports and leadership. His experience in cricket coaching in Namibia taught him valuable lessons about motivation, teamwork, and the importance of helping others believe in their potential. Great leaders, Ben asserts, are those who provide their teams with the tools and support to solve problems independently, fostering a culture of growth and self-reliance.
Personal Development and Future Challenges
Looking ahead, Ben sees the future of B2B marketing as increasingly intertwined with AI and technological innovation. He believes that the ability to work effectively with AI tools will be a critical skill for marketers. However, he also stresses the enduring importance of human connection and communication in a world where commoditization is rampant.
Maintaining Relevance and Continuous Learning
To stay relevant, Ben underscores the importance of continuous learning and internal communication. As a leader, it is vital to ensure that the entire organization understands the value of marketing efforts and aligns with the company's strategic vision. This internal advocacy is essential for securing resources and achieving long-term success.
Conclusion
Ben Slater's journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, strategic focus, and mission-driven leadership. His experiences offer valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of high-growth environments. As Beamery continues to innovate and scale, Ben's leadership will undoubtedly remain a driving force behind its success.
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