Robert Duggan began his City Light career in 2016 as an intern for the Communications Team. He re-joined the team in March 2019 as a Digital Marketing Strategist. “I create content, implement new digital marketing tools, improve the online experience and execute digital campaigns,” Robert explained. “I’m also responsible for developing goals and reports to guide our efforts and ensure our customers get value from our communications.”
Born and raised in Washington, Robert grew up outside of Spokane. He moved to Seattle in 2013 to attend college at Seattle University where he graduated with a degree in Business Administration. “I originally had plans to move out of state, but I fell in love with the city and can’t imagine leaving now,” Robert shared. “I live in Capitol Hill and have never lived somewhere that is so vibrant and energetic, while still maintaining the feeling of a close-knit community.”
In this week’s (spot)Light, Robert talks about his hobbies, his traveling experiences and what he values about his role at the utility.
“I have a degree in Business Administration from Seattle University. Initially, I thought I’d have a career in finance before realizing that marketing was much more rewarding for me. That change in plans and my love to travel resulted in a double major in Finance and Marketing with a minor in International Business. My favorite experience attending Seattle U was studying in Madrid for four months to complete my minor. Sangria and tapas make class much more manageable.”
“I’ll never pass up a weekend getaway. I love traveling and experiencing new places, plus I come back with a greater appreciation for home every time. This year, I have traveled to St. Louis, Boise, Denver, Eugene, Chicago, and Hawaii. Next up is San Antonio and Las Vegas before the year wraps up! When I’m not planning my next trip, I’m running around the city visiting plant nurseries and thrift stores adding to the mini jungle in my apartment.”
“When I started at City Light as an intern, I had no idea how much work the Communications team takes on. From crisis communication to marketing energy efficiency programs, there is always a new and pressing challenge. Even at a not-for-profit organization, there is a huge need for marketing. We have the same responsibility any business has, which is to make sure we offer services and information that our customers need and want.”
“Our role as marketers always involves aspects of change management. I love that work. I get to partner with people from across the City to ensure we have thought of and addressed everything our customers will need. Being able to provide new tools, insights, campaign strategies, and customer-centric content is very rewarding. Working somewhere that has such a strong, shared goal of making Seattle a better place to live and work is amazing.”