In a recent episode of No Wrong Choices, we had the privilege of sitting down with Brian Norris, a distinguished advertising executive who currently serves as the Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer for the E.W. Scripps Company. Brian's journey is one that showcases the power of adaptability, resilience, and an unyielding drive to succeed in a highly competitive industry. From his early days growing up in Brooklyn to his current role leading a team of 500 people, Brian shares the lessons, challenges, and pivotal moments that have shaped his incredible career.
Building the Foundation: From Brooklyn to Towson University Brian’s journey began in Brooklyn, where his diverse upbringing and passion for sports, particularly football, played a crucial role in shaping his character. Despite initially dreaming of a career as a journalist, Brian’s path took a different turn when he attended Towson University and discovered a love for the media industry. It was during this time that he learned valuable lessons about discipline, leadership, and time management—skills that would later become instrumental in his professional journey.
Breaking into the Media Industry Brian's entry into the media industry was marked by determination and persistence. After attending a multicultural career workshop hosted by the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS), Brian landed his first job at Lifetime Television. He shares the importance of seizing opportunities, even when they don’t come easily, and how his willingness to say 'yes' to any offer helped him kick-start his career in advertising sales.
Facing Challenges and Embracing Leadership One of the most inspiring aspects of Brian's journey is how he handled the challenges of being the first Black person in ad sales at Lifetime Television. Rather than being daunted by the pressure, Brian used it as motivation to excel, proving himself in a space where he was breaking barriers. He reflects on how this experience shaped his commitment to mentorship and diversity, emphasizing the importance of helping others gain access to opportunities in the industry.
Defining Leadership on His Own Terms As Brian’s career progressed, he made a conscious decision to become an extrovert, a skill he believed was necessary to succeed in the world of advertising. He shares how he gradually evolved from an introverted writer into a confident and authentic leader. Today, Brian leads with empathy, authenticity, and a dedication to giving back, mentoring hundreds of aspiring professionals and helping them navigate the complexities of the media industry.
Lessons in Time Management and Personal Growth One of the standout takeaways from Brian's story is his disciplined approach to time management. After earning an MBA while working full-time, Brian chose not to “give back” the 20 extra hours a week he had dedicated to his studies. Instead, he applied that time to pursue his passions, including art collecting, writing, and teaching at Fordham University. His insights on balancing work, family, and personal growth are invaluable for anyone looking to excel in their career.
Key Takeaways for Your Career Journey
- Embrace Change: Brian’s career journey reminds us that adaptability is crucial. Being open to changing paths, learning new skills, and taking risks can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
- Mentorship Matters: From his mentors to the hundreds of individuals he’s mentored, Brian demonstrates the importance of seeking guidance and paying it forward.
- Authenticity and Empathy: Being genuine and empathetic can help you build stronger teams, foster trust, and create a positive work environment.
Listen to the full episode of No Wrong Choices by clicking here: Brian Norris Also available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.
