Maggie P. Trujillo
Vice President, Director of Licensing
What got you into this business in the first place?
Every time I go anywhere, see anything, or hear about something new I automatically start thinking about how to make it better, how to give it that “got to have it” edge – from product, to package, to message. I just can’t help myself!
Who was a big influence in your career?
The people that I have worked with have all influenced my business acumen in different ways and continue to – from the folks I worked with in national politics, the folks from the long list of entertainment companies that employed me, from my landscaping and interior design business, from the town Farmer’s Market that I run, and the community members with whom I volunteer with on a host of efforts. They have all taught me the importance of perspective in the art of decision making.
What was "your finest moment," the thing you're most
proud of?
I consider myself lucky to be proud of so many things that I have done. I was a presidential appointee in the Reagan White House, I personally secured a $14M order for my own product from Toys R Us, I’ve sold in several retail exclusive programs, I’ve worked on several award winning lines of product. I make it a point to love what I am doing when I am doing it.
What attracted you to Parham Santana?
I have had the pleasure of calling Parham Santana agency of record on 3 major pieces of business that I worked on. There is no group better than ParhamSantana for any and all aspects of the development and stewardship of brands. I consider it an honor to now be able to call myself part of their team.
What makes a great brand?
There are so many things that can make a brand great depending on the brand. Paul Pressler (my Disney days) said to a room full of people that you should never stray from your brand character, I never forgot that. Scarlett O’Hara’s father said “a brands the only thing that matters, it’s the only thing that lasts” (actually he was talking about land but I am sure he meant brand!). Most importantly, smart brand stewardship and never believing your own press keeps a brand great.
What talent do you wish you had?
The ability to save lives and cure cancer.
If you had to live on a desert island, what would you miss
most?
If I could bring my family and still get my magazine subscriptions, I wouldn’t miss anything.
Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?
Home grown and home made, the more flavorful and spicy the better.
What frustrates you the most?
Lazy people. Lazy anything.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
My friend gave me a sign that says that everyone is entitled to my opinion. But I mean well. Really, it is not an ego thing!
What was growing up like for you?
Lots of independence, lots of family, lots of great meals, lots of pressure too!
What do you do for a good time when you're not working?
I run, I spend all the time I can with my children, I cook, I garden, I read magazines, I get lost on the internet. I am never idle.
What is your greatest extravagance?
I love to shop, anywhere, anytime.
What is your most treasured possession?
Everything. I never lose anything and I never throw away anything. You should see my attic!
What is your motto?
Become the change you want to see.
What is your current state of mind?
Energized. There is so much information, opportunity, vision out there right now that just needs to be directed and utilized.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Actually. I don’t think any of the virtues are overrated. However, I do love that song from the musical Camelot called “The Seven Deadly Virtues”!
What is your most marked characteristic?
Energy.
