Amanda Donovan
Marketing Coordinator, New York
What are you passionate about and how do you pursue that passion at PMA?
I love the world and all its people, and my curiosity and ambition drive me to continuously challenge myself to grow outside of my comfort zone.
My role at PMA connects me with so many brilliant people whose work is truly making the world a better place, whether its managing the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure in the most congested cities across North America or supervising the construction of laboratories performing ground-breaking medical research.
I’m inspired by the work we do, and I enjoy using my communication skills to help PMA win projects and promote our company to industry peers and potential employees.
When I first joined PMA, I had no prior experience in writing proposals (my background was in corporate communications not marketing). I’m glad PMA took a chance on me, and my fellow Marketing team took the time to help me, because now I produce multiple winning proposals under tight deadlines with confidence. I’m proud of how I’ve developed as a proposal manager and look forward to continuing to grow my skill set.
What current project(s) are you working on?
One of my favorite parts about my role at PMA is that it’s never boring! I wear many hats and juggle a lot of different projects simultaneously.
The Mid-Atlantic, PSE&G, and Florida teams have merged into the new East region and there are a ton of opportunities just waiting for us! The project I’m most excited about is finding new clients and opportunities to expand our presence in this region. Nothing makes me happier than winning contracts, especially when we beat our top competitors!
As our region’s CSR champion, I led our first annual can drive collecting more than 150 pounds of food for City Harvest. In addition, this is my second year working with our Cristo Rey student, Azaan Rodriguez, an assignment that brings me much joy by sharing my knowledge and giving back to the next generation.
I also manage our region’s Lunch’ n Learns. I’m always amazed at the collective knowledge our group has and the innovative topics discussed.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself? (Personal heroes, family members, ideas)
I’ve overcome a lot of hardship in my life to get where I am today, and I promised myself I wouldn’t ever take a breath of air for granted. I have big dreams and know there is nothing I can’t do if I just put my mind to it.
My personal business hero and someone who strongly influences me is Richard Branson, CEO and Founder of Virgin Group. His philosophy of, “Screw it, let’s do it!” resonates with me. I try to bring fun, positivity, and determination in my professional life by following his ideas:
“Respect is how to treat everyone, not just those you want to impress.”
“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes–then learn how to do it later!”
“Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”
What are the most positive aspects of working at PMA? Or Share your impressions of PMA’s culture.
I believe company culture starts at the top. When the CEO embodies the company’s core values, this naturally trickles down to everyone else.
What makes our culture so great, in my opinion, is that everyone is here because we want to be, and we share a common goal of making PMA the best company it can be. We win the same kinds of projects our Fortune 500 competitors do, but we have more fun doing it!
I’ve always felt empowered to pursue ideas and assignments outside of my job description knowing I have the support of my leaders and peers.
What is something innovative happening in your industry that makes you excited about the future?
Our industry used to be tailored towards companies who submitted qualified people for the lowest bid, but now there is more emphasis on who the company is and how it gives back to the communities through their corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.
People want more than just a product — they want a company who cares, and that’s an area where PMA excels!
Also, remote work is amazing! As someone who had a nightmare commute (four hours daily) in one of the most congested cities in the USA, working remotely has given me my life back!
What university or college did you graduate from?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in photography & broadcast journalism from St. Francis College, in Brooklyn, New York.
What is your favorite local establishment/feature (restaurant, museum, stadium, etc.)?
It’s so hard to pick just one place in NYC, but I’ve always loved Fraunces Tavern and the Dead Rabbit–anywhere with a long history and great food!
Provide a fun fact or secret talent about yourself?
I travel the world and take beautiful pictures. I often enter them into contests–sometimes I win 😊