In Conversation with Allison Henry Aver

Tell us about your background: 

I run a branding agency out of Portland, Oregon called Letter A! Prior to this, I spent 15+ years in NYC where I started out as a graphic designer but then ended up leading the in-house creative marketing teams at several well-loved beauty and fashion brands including Bumble and bumble, Vogue, Ann Taylor and Kate Spade. I was also the founding Creative Director of Kate Spade Saturday. I still love working with brands in this space and now more often with start-ups and founders and helping them build brands that are full of personality and have a point of view.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

Ahh where do I start!?? That the coolest job isn't always the best job. Don't be scared to quit, but leave on a high note. Keep in touch with people.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Show up and participate. You might not be the best or most talented person in a room, but being an active, reliable and engaged team member is a valuable asset to everyone.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

As I get "older" I appreciate leaders that have gone through challenging experiences and are able to reflect and teach through them. I feel this experience helps prioritize what is important for the business but what is also important as a person. And I appreciate a candid realness in leaders who aren't afraid to speak to leadership in a vulnerable way.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

The biggest challenge for me—aside from being let go from a dream job—is moving to a new city and becoming a mother. The hiatus I took at this time and uncertainty I felt around where I wanted to be professionally and personally outside of NYC was frightening. I knew one path of success and that was working at a big name corporate job. When that didn't pan out for me in Portland, I had to find a new way to find success and fulfillment and that came through starting my own agency.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

A big cozy turtleneck sweater.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonhenryaver/

Website: https://www.lettera.xyz/

Instagram: @lettera.xyz