Experience matters. After more than 30 years working in public relations and marketing, Stacey Bender struck out on her own 26 years ago and launched The Bender Group. Her career began at Ogilvy and Mather Public Relations where she advanced from account executive to vice president, working on high profile accounts like Crystal Light, Maxwell House, Kool-Aid, and many others. She later became a senior vice president at Ruder Finn, senior vice president at Neale-May and partners, where she opened the East Coast office. She opened The Bender Group Public Relations after the birth of her fourth child. She has won numerous industry awards and is a regular guest speaker at universities and conferences and mentors young people entering the field.
Stacey has a strong commitment to social responsibility. She is on the advisory board for BigVision Community, a non-profit that helps young people in recovery. She lost her 24 year-old son five years ago to an addiction disorder and is passionate about helping young people stay alive and sober. She is also committed to other charities and non-profit organizations including Jewish non-profits to community-based groups focused on helping children.
Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?
Great Question. Growing up I always thought I wanted to be an actress. As I got older and realized how difficult a career choice acting is I tried to think about what my skills were suited to. I always loved interacting with people; bringing people together; public speaking; creating and promoting events and selling. So, when I went to university when seeking a major, I was first led to Speech Communications. I remember my dad saying to me, “Well Stacey, what are you going to do with a major in Speech Communications?” Soo, we looked at a similar major, and we found Mass Communications which included a study in Public Relations – and Bingo, that fit the bill for me.
What about this career choice did you find most appealing?
I loved that the career path led to a result, meaning that there were many excellent public relations agencies and positions in the field. I also researched agencies and discovered the work they were doing in bringing brands and companies to life and creating a voice in the world. It seemed a perfect fit for me.
What steps did you take to begin your education or training?
I received a double major in Public Relations and Spanish at The University of South Florida(USF); I interned and worked at a local public relations agency to gain real life experience; I became involved and ultimately became the president of the Public Relations Student Society of America. I was selected as one of a small group of students to be a USF Ambassador (a group funded at the time by George Steinbrenner who was a huge supporter of the University) and selected by the USF president and we were the representation of the university at fundraising and alumni events. Upon graduation I applied to a handful of public relations agencies in New York City and joined a firm that was own and run by two women who were an inspiration to me both career wise as well as professionally. I remained there for over eight years. I went to a few other firms before opening my own firm Bender Group Public Relations.
Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?
Mostly encouraging. As a woman back when I first started, many people would say that once “you have kids,” you will stay home, and I hated that. But I did not stay home, I was able to raise four kids and run a business and I am proud of that.
Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?
I never doubted my decision, but starting Bender Group when I had four kids from infant to six was challenging at times, for sure.
When did your career reach a tipping point?
Tipping point was when I opened the doors to Bender Group over 30 years ago. Most of my clients encouraged me to do so. It was scary at first, but I know that I could manage the work, it was just how to manage the business. Today I am in partnership with my son, Hayden Hammerling, so that is a thrill. And all my kids, Haley, Hayden, Heather and Hayes all worked at Bender at one time or another to gain life skills. My oldest daughter Haley is still in the PR business working at a large ad agency, and the others found their paths.
Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?
Tragically the worst challenge I had to overcome was losing my youngest child, Hayes, now over five years ago, to an accidental overdose. And that is not something you “overcome” but rather learn to live through and with. To that end, I have tried to support other young people in recovery and I am on the advisory board of a non-profit BigVision Community. This was founded by Eve Goldberg who also lost her son Issac to the same disease. The shock and stigma are so very difficult for families and being part of BigVision was a powerful way to share and to help others.
What single skill has proven to be most useful?
Professionally the single most helpful skill has been my ability to persevere against all odds. Other skills such as having a positive outlook, great enthusiasm, strong interpersonal skills and talent in your field also help a great deal.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the strength of the business despite many ups and downs professionally and personally. Working with my son, now my partner, is a great joy because as kids, they all said, “mom when I grow up, I want to work with you,” which sounds unreal when they are young children, but this became my reality. Also, I am proud of being a mentor to young people and have over the years hired and trained many young people in the field of public relations who have gone on to great things. My agency was a big “first break” to many. I am still active in mentoring and helping young people and speaking at colleges and events.
Any advice for others entering your profession?
Absolutely, first don’t just study in the field, work it, even if it is for free! Read everything you can about the craft, study cases, and pay attention to the best-in-class examples. And never stop trying… persistence is everything. Like everything, don’t let a few falls knock you down.
For more information go to the website for The Bender Group.
For more information on BigVision Community
Top: Stacey Bender photo by Bender Group PR
