As we continue celebrating the “United Nations of IAA” campaign, we’re excited to highlight an interview with Carol Schuster, SVP of Marketing and Business Information at Lafayette 148, and IAA Chapter President North America and Global Secretary.
With a remarkable career in global marketing and luxury fashion, Carol shares how her passion for connecting cultures and commerce aligns perfectly with the IAA’s mission.
Hear from Carol about how the IAA allows her to give back to the industry that has shaped her journey, and how it stands as the compass for global marketing communications.
IAA: What do you do?
Schuster: As the SVP Marketing and Business Information at Lafayette 148, a leading women’s luxury fashion brand, I bring our designer’s vision to life for our consumers while driving sales for our Company. It’s this balancing act of brand and demand in a highly creative image-driven world that I find to be an exciting challenge. But the greatest of all, is I get to help women feel powerful and build their worlds by looking and feeling good in what they wear. And in my free time, I am a proud IAA volunteer serving as the Chapter President North America and Global Secretary. It’s here where I get to give back to the industry which has given me so much. That’s what I call double happiness!
IAA: Why did you join the IAA?
Schuster: I joined the IAA because I am a global citizen at heart. My entire career and much of my adult life has been about connecting cultures and commerce for a better life. IAA embodies all of that.
IAA: Which IAA value is closest to your heart and why?
Schuster: I love the intersection of inclusivity and internationality at the IAA. The IAA is the only organization in our industry that connects all aspects of the communications industry with people and cultures globally to create one community worldwide. It’s truly the United Nations of IAA!
IAA: What is your favorite example of IAA serving the marketing communications community?
Schuster: The World Congress is probably the best expression of the IAA brand. It’s where the IAA truly shows up as the Compass for the global marketing and communications industry bringing together industry leaders from all over the world for one global conversation.