The Faces of Surex: Serena Loy

Name: Serena Loy

Title: SEO Specialist/Digital Content Writer

How would you describe your job to your grandma?

Essentially, when you search for insurance companies in Google, I help Surex rank in the feed by implementing search marketing strategies, collaborating with various partners, and developing and delivering strong brand content. 

How did you get into this role?

I got into marketing while I was in school and started working part-time as an intern at a marketing agency. I loved the collaboration with project managers and felt satisfied helping clients achieve tasks in a timely manner.

What is a piece of advice you would give your 15-year-old self?

Continue to chase your dreams and don't give up! Life is a long journey filled with ups and downs. You're going to have many opportunities and the best thing you can do is pursue what interests you and continue to do your best. Some doors will close, but 10 more will open along the way.

What do you love about your job?

I love the variety marketing has to offer from the creative side to the analysis of numbers, to the collaboration and the capability to create meaningful campaigns that drive business success.  

What is the hardest part of your role?

At times, the hardest part can be attribution. Knowing how much your marketing efforts are driving sales and how you measure that is a key component of marketing strategy. It's incredibly important to show that the strategies you're using are having a positive impact and delivering your desired results.

If you weren't a marketer what job would you love?

If I wasn't a marketer, I would be a coffee shop owner. I love learning about coffee beans and manufacturing processes from around the world and love a good cup of espresso! I would love to be able to provide a warm space for people to gather and try a variety of delicious roasts. 

What is the best thing you've done to advance in your career?

The best thing I've done to advance my career is pursuing the MBA program at McMaster University. The whole process has taught me to think from the perspective of a CEO, to see what challenges business owners face on a day-to-day basis, to ask the right questions, and to of course stay humble - there's so much to know after all!

Who is someone you admire? and why?

I admire my parents. They have brought so much joy into my life and have helped me follow and achieve my dreams. They lead by example by being kind to others, by working hard, and by making time for family and good memories. I can't thank them enough for everything they do.

Fun Fact about you:

A fun fact about me is that I went on an exchange to France and studied there for 4 months. I traveled to 8 countries during that time, entirely on a student budget! I took overnight buses and inexpensive flights, stayed in hostels and was able to see so much of Europe while I was there.