The David I. Levy Award:Sue MeanyPresident, SKM Group “Sue Meany’s agency has been a great asset during a busy and productive time of transition for TOPS Friendly Markets. Our business is always fast-moving and results matter, every week. In creative work, account service, media planning and social and online initiatives, Sue’s team has met every challenge with flying colors.” “Sue Meany demonstrates the true philanthropic spirit in providing support and compassion to her team and clients. Through her actions and like-minded staff that make up her team, the SKM Group is leading by example in truly making an impact on the fight against cancer.”
It’s hard to imagine that Sue Meany once sold vacuums door to door. From these humble roots, she later started Marketing Resources and over the past 26 years transformed a small, direct mail firm into SKM Group, one of WNY’s leading fullservice advertising agencies. Today, SKM Group employs 40 area professionals. During its 26 years, the ad agency has provided solid career opportunities and growth for nearly 200 people. In a challenging economy, Sue’s firm just completed the most successful year in its history, with leading local clients including TOPS Friendly Markets, Kaleida Health, ElderWood Senior Care and Holiday Valley. With 65% of the firm’s business originating outside Western New York, it’s important to highlight how much business Sue has brought into our region – with clients including SunTrust Banks, Astoria Federal Savings, Hartford Insurance, Gerber Life, Liberty Mutual and Honeywell. As a woman-owned business, Sue has shown how to achieve success with integrity and persistence. Through her example and her direct mentorship, Sue has been an inspiration to dozens of women in the marketing communications field. Directly related to the awarding of the Levy Award, Sue has invested heavily in the Ad Club of Buffalo. From consistent support of events, including donating the Sue has given generously over the years to deserving organizations that work to improve the quality of life in our community. As part of SKM Group’s 25th anniversary celebration, Sue decided the year would be spent supporting a cause near and dear to her and her employees’ hearts: the fight against cancer. SKM worked to raise approximately $25,000 over the course of the year from partners and friends, with Sue matching every donation dollar-for-dollar for a final contribution of almost $50,000. |