AUSTIN LORD/GATHER PORTRAIT STUDIO
Beth Sachan
Whether they’re working behind a desk, in the field, or on the road, trailblazing women are paving their own way in Music City. Now they’re taking a break from their busy schedules to share their success stories with us.
THE DAILY HUSTLE
I oversee sales, promotions, PR, media, advertising, strategic partnerships, and product development for a 110-year-old candy company. I’m part brand ambassador, part business strategist, and fully passionate about chocolate.
EARLY ASPIRATIONS
Right out of college, I went into sales—cold calling—which I think was a good starting point for my role to come. After a couple of years, I made a move across the country and took a position as a marketing coordinator for a fast- growing internet company. The environment was creative, high energy, and ever changing, and I found it invigorating. When I moved back to Nashville after a few years, I landed at a children’s publishing company where I handled various aspects of sales, marketing, and account management before moving into product development. When I finally landed at Goo Goo, they were in the midst of a complete rebranding effort, so I sort of jokingly say I went to work for a 100-year-old startup. There were only three of us working directly for the brand, so while I was hired on as the marketing director, I wore many hats (as I still do). While it wasn’t without stress to manage multiple roles, I believe learning so many aspects of the business made me more successful in my current role. There is almost nothing in our business that I haven’t done myself at some point, so it gives me empathy and understanding for everyone’s role.
CHALLENGES FACED
I think in my 20s and even early 30s, I was probably underestimated and a bit underappreciated. I’m nice, I smile a lot, and I will work my butt off when I enjoy what I’m doing. Unfortunately, I encountered individuals along the way that took advantage of that. I think the biggest challenge I face today is one that I know many working mothers struggle with: finding work/life balance. I’m naturally a bit of a workaholic and find it hard to turn off, but the past two years I’ve encountered a lot personally that really put things into perspective, so I’m trying to teach myself to slow down a bit and step away.
THE DEFINITION OF SUCCESS
For me, success is being fulfilled, happy, and being a part of something bigger, helping our team achieve their goals, and truly bringing happiness to others.
ADVICE TO OTHERS
I know it’s said often but find your passion and it will lead you there. While I do truly enjoy the role of sales, marketing, and public relations, I can’t imagine that I would have the excitement for my job that I wake up to every day if I didn’t truly love the brand and product I represent. My passion for many years has been food, so I’m very thankful that I was able to marry a personal love of mine to my professional life.
Meet Beth Sachan and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
>>> PURCHASE TICKETS
The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 18 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 300 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!