To say that Mark Petroff brought global experience to his role leading Marketing Associates LLC is a bit of an understatement. As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Petroff served as a submarine warfare officer and nuclear engineering officer while on active duty.
He also graduated from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business Administration and was a partner with Deloitte, specializing in the financial advisory services practice as the global leader for the firm’s automotive industry segment.
But in addition to this worldly experience, Petroff brought a hometown touch to his role leading Marketing Associates, and that’s one of the reasons he’s been successful.
Petroff needed such a diverse set of skills when he took over the marketing firm as president and CEO in 2006. Prior to his arrival, the techonology-enabled marketing services company had only had one client since it was founded in 1967. And while that client was Ford Motor Co., it was risky to rely on just one source of revenue.
When the automotive industry began to tumble, it became even more important to diversify. Fortunately, Petroff had already set the wheels in motion, and despite a tough economy, Marketing Associates was able to build and develop new business through the energy and passion that Petroff shared with others in the business. He also took the bold step of moving the company’s headquarters out of the suburbs and into Detroit at a time when many were fleeing the city.
Petroff is always focused on building teamwork, whether it’s at work or in the community. He sees community work as an opportunity not only to help those who are less fortunate than he is but also to build morale and camaraderie with his employees and create a stronger team as a result.
How to reach: Marketing Associates LLC, (313) 965-3000 or www.marketingassociates.com
