Faculty Profile: Maureen Garbutt

Maureen Garbutt

Brief Bio

After starting my career in television production, I moved to the Radio Marketing Bureau where we provided support to Radio Advertising Sales Executives through research, creative and industry trends.  Enjoying this, I decided to try my hand in Radio Advertising Sales and worked at several stations in the GTA.  This career was very rewarding and I thrived in this environment through the business relationships built with my clients and colleagues alike.  There was such variety in this role, excitement and learning was always on the agenda.

After hearing of the opportunity at Sheridan College in the Advertising Program, I decided to shift gears to teaching.  There are several similarities between teaching and sales; you are aiding in the choices that people make and educating clients/students every day while keeping current in every aspect of the business.  I have developed a wonderful network of industry professionals to aid in my currency and have discovered my passion is extended to not only sales, but to the digital environment as well. Taking courses myself is of the utmost importance to me as I feel it is vital in bringing the most current and relevant information to our students.

Please state which courses you teach within the post-grad program, and why are you passionate about this course(s)?

I teach in the sales and digital areas of the program.  Sales is dear to my heart, not just because that is the role I had within the industry but also because it hones skills that are key to every position within our industry.  Digital is paramount in our industry, and in our lives, so I bring it into every class I teach and find it intriguing and absolutely exciting!  I enjoy finding out about the newest tools and tricks in the digital landscape and working them into the classroom.

Maureen and Students

How long have you been with Sheridan?

I have been working full time at Sheridan for 11 years, and 2 years part-time before that.  I enjoy working with the students and industry professionals.

What is your favourite part about Sheridan?

I am always learning … we have to in order to succeed in today’s business climate.  Sheridan provides the environment needed to continuously learn and then be able to pass along my learnings to those that want to work in the Advertising industry.  Sheridan is very student centered and I take great pride in seeing our students grow within the program and then become successful in our amazing Advertising business.

What do you think is the greatest strength of the post-grad program?

I believe the breadth of the program is crucial to success in this area of study.  Because this is such a fast-paced, ever-changing industry, our program offers insight, application and connections to every facet of Advertising.  Our faculty is exceedingly dedicated and we all work well together to provide our students with the best education to help them land where they would like to be within our business.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a post-grad education in Advertising?

You get what you put into it.  I would suggest coming into this program with an open mind, ready for challenges and exceedingly valuable learning that will help them find their passion.  When someone finds their passion, it never feels like work … it’s fun! 

Maureen and Post Grads