Meet Celtic’s CEO, Marlene Byrne. When Marlene (a.k.a Mar) isn’t managing the agency or engaging with our clients to develop active solutions to meet their goals, you can find her brushing up on her Spanish or working on her two latest books. Read on to learn what Mar has been up to in 2019 and where she’s headed in 2020.
It’s 2020! Do you have a resolution for the New Year ahead? My goal this year is to finally learn Spanish and I am now officially enrolled in a weekly class. (Buena suerte!)
What are you most looking forward to in 2020? I’m excited to say I will be publishing two books. Both revolving around NPH USA, a charitable organization that has provided a home for thousands of orphans and children in nine homes in Latin America and the Caribbean. The first book is about the influential Father Wasson, who founded the organization. The second book is about Juan, a boy who grew up in NPH El Salvador. As a double amputee, Juan stayed with my family while he was in the process of getting cleft palate surgery at Shriners. We all became very close and, while he was staying with us, we discovered how gifted he was at playing the guitar. We ended up organizing a fundraising concert where he was able to showcase his talents while raising money for the organization. (Learn more about NPH and the amazing things they’re doing.)
Why is philanthropy at a company important? My father used to say “you can’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands.” I believe the happiest people are those who give back. Incorporating this idea in corporate culture reinforces a positive work environment and boosts team camaraderie. When your team is working together to help others, it creates a great bonding opportunity while also doing some good. (Stay up-to-date with Celtic’s volunteer group, Celtic Cares here.)
What did you want to be when you grew up? I’ve always really loved and enjoyed writing. I started my career in public relations and my path turned into advertising. My love for communicating and the written word has never faded.
What advice would you give to a young professional just starting their career? Always be curious and read! Right now we’re living in a time where people skim the headlines and never learn the full story. It’s our responsibility to do our own investigating and stay educated about the important issues of the day.
Time to learn a little more about Marlene with our “Lightning Round”
Beer or wine? Beer Fly or drive? Fly Tacos or pizza? Tacos
Word association, GO! 2020: Purposeful Celtic: Nimble Chicago: Accessible
Thanks to Marlene for playing! To see more of our friendly faces and learn more about the Celts that make this place go, check back each month.
