About Us
FOR THE IDEAL BLEND OF MARKETING
SCIENCE & ART, YOU NEED THE SPECIALISTS.
Customer acquisition and retention is all about opportunities — spotting them, cultivating them, converting them. And though the tools may have changed, the path to success hasn’t.
RIGHT OFFER > RIGHT PERSON > RIGHT PLACE > RIGHT TIME
Since 1987, Specialists Marketing Services has helped thousands of leading brands identify the “right” blend of art and science. From uncovering new audiences to identifying high-performing channels, we’ve honed a remarkably efficient lead generation foundation — one that’s stood the test of time.
Historically, direct mail served as the centerpiece of every campaign; for some marketers, it still does. But now your postal reach is amplified by complementary channels like digital display, social and email, using data-driven insights to maximize results.
What hasn’t changed? The personalized, hands-on, one-on-one involvement of our veteran staff at every stage, ensuring that your acquisition and retention goals are met efficiently and cost-effectively. Life made easier — that’s our specialty.
Specialists Marketing Services is backed by Kinderhook Industries, LLC, a private investment firm that manages over $2.0 billion of committed capital.
With 40 years of experience in the direct marketing field, Lon’s extensive experience spans media management, customer acquisition, insert media and digital. He has been a trusted partner to many industry veterans and leaders. Lon’s vision is to serve our clients with the best media mix of traditional and non-traditional marketing channels. He is responsible for general management, corporate strategy and organizational development. He oversees the company to ensure quality service is provided to clients and growing into new and different markets. Client success is Lon’s first priority and the foundation of the culture for this organization. He has gained considerable insight and knowledge over the years, working with some of the top direct marketing companies in the country. Lon was honored as List Leader of the Year in 2011 by the DMA for his outstanding contributions to the list and data industry.
Nora brings more than three decades of financial and operational experience to her role. Her aptitude and dedication ensure the Specialists team runs efficiently and financially sound. Prior to her current role as CFO of SMS Marketing Services, Inc., Nora served as Executive Vice President and Financial Director of Specialists Marketing Services, Inc. She has acquired substantial knowledge and expertise in the direct marketing business and has successfully served the financial needs of corporations such as SpeciaLISTS Ltd and Dependable Lists. In 2006, she was selected winner of the “President’s Circle” Award by ClientLogic. Nora is responsible for all financial functions of the company.
Anna has 20 years of experience in the direct marketing field with expertise in data and multi-channel marketing solutions. She began her career at Specialists Marketing Services with 14 years in the List Brokerage and List Management Divisions, supporting Fortune 500 brands with their direct mail prospecting efforts and data monetization needs. In 2014, she joined the Data Solutions Group providing brands, agencies and ad-tech partners with high quality audiences that support multi-channel marketing programs, customer acquisition efforts and house file analytics. Her current role is in sales and business development as well as data partnership development.
Anthony has over ten years of experience in the Insert Media arena. Prior to joining Specialists Marketing Services in 2015, Anthony held a sales position at MHI. He is extremely adept and knowledgeable in the areas of customer acquisition through various marketing channels including insert media and business development. Anthony’s focus is new business development in the Insert Media division and introducing marketers to a growing and highly successful channel to reach new customers.
Dawn started in the industry in 1999 with Spectra Products. She began as an account manager and specialized in relationship and account management. Dawn then moved into a sales role where she now manages top clients such as Defender Direct, Globe Life Insurance and Santander Auto Loans. Dawn is extremely well versed in various Insert Media channels, creative and print, and business development.
James started his career in 1994 at Computer Marketing Services, Inc., an in-house service bureau for The SpeciaLISTS, Ltd., where he managed list fulfillment databases for several key clients. James has held several positions within Computer Marketing Systems, Inc. eventually overseeing all client fulfillment and then later also joining The SpeciaLISTS, Ltd. IT Operations group. At Specialists Marketing Services, James oversees all IT Operations and our in-house list fulfillment service bureau which delivers technical services solutions to our media management client roster.
Jeremy has 20 years of experience in the Direct Marketing industry. He started with the Millard Group in 1997 as an intern and then joined the company full time in 1999. He grew within the company; managed a significant workload and played a key role in his clients’ ability to grow their direct mail efforts successfully. With a primary focus on consumer publishing, he has significant experience working with continuity mailers, catalogers, B2B and non-profits. Jeremy has been recognized by the DMA as the Ron Davis Young List Professional of the Year; has been published in Direct Magazine, DM News, and Target Marketing and has also taken part in numerous speaking engagements for the DMA and MPA. Jeremy joined Specialists Marketing Services, Inc. in 2006 and has grown the organization’s presence in the consumer publishing market place significantly. At Specialists, Jeremy oversees customer acquisition efforts for key clients such as PubWorX, which includes the Hearst Publications and Conde Nast titles, The Economist, Bonnier, The Week, Rodale and America’s Test Kitchen.
Joanne Adams has over 20 years combined experience in direct marketing client services and operations management, advertising and marketing, print, production, media management and customer acquisition. She has served as Vice President of Operations at CPC Associates, which was acquired by Epsilon where she went on to serve as Vice President, Client Management of the Data Services division. Prior to her role at SMS, Joanne served as EVP of Operations for Spectra Data Group. Joanne has a strong commitment to operational excellence, innovative approaches to create business solutions and helping customers achieve high levels of productivity through technology and strategic initiatives. Her extensive understanding of business operations, infrastructure, and application deployments, as well as her knowledge of products and services, help her in leading her team to continual success.
Julie has been a member of the Specialists team for over 17 years, and works with multi-titled apparel and home décor retail clients such as GE, Alliance Data Systems (ADS), and Macy’s. She has successfully managed the distinctly different requirements of the individual brands under the multi-titled client umbrellas, while posting year-over-year revenue growth.
Kathy brings 20 years of experience in the Direct Marketing industry. She has held sales positions at Mokrynski Direct (now Infogroup) Belardi Ostroy and Specialists Marketing Services. Her expertise is in the areas of Media Management, New Business Development and Strategic Partnerships. Her past and current client roster includes prestigious brands such as Victoria’s Secret, J. Crew, Harriet Carter, Restoration Hardware, Hammacher Schlemmer, Ballard Designs, Travelsmith, Harry & David, PulseTV, Race Running Registrants, Athleta, Title Nine, Provide Commerce, Company Store, etc. Kathy rejoined Specialists Marketing Services in 2016 where her focus is on new business development and multi-channel marketing across the organization.
With 25 years of Direct Marketing experience, Mary Ann has held sales and operational positions at Total Media Concepts and Database America before joining the Specialists Marketing Services team in 1994. She has maintained senior roles in the division in both sales and operations over her tenure and is currently responsible for major accounts such as America’s Test Kitchen, PubWorX, Guthy-Renker, New York Post, Meredith Modeling, Playboy and Proactiv. She attends all key industry shows and events, and frequently travels throughout the country meeting with brokers and mailers. At Specialists Marketing Services, Mary Ann oversees both sales efforts as well as client services for accounts in the Media Management division.
Melissa has a diverse background in media buying and new business development having worked for Equinox Broadcasting and Gotham Inc., a division of McCann Erickson. While there, she worked with clients such as Maybelline, Empire Blue Cross and Pfizer. In less than three years after joining SMS in 2002, Melissa and her team signed on thirteen new business accounts including Royal Caribbean, American Eagle Outfitters, Nextel, Nissan USA and Lincoln Automotive. In her current role at SMS, Melissa leads the Insert Media/Instatement team in the management of current clients and development of new revenue streams.
Mike is a seasoned direct marketing consultant with over 30 years’ experience, specializing in direct response through insert media, direct mail and print media. He develops strategies and customizes solutions that will help increase the success and profitability of his clients. He works with clients in the areas of customer acquisition, customer retention, and maximizing the customer lifetime value. He is well known and respected for his creativity, negotiating skills and hands on approach. His client list has included such fortune 500 companies as: Aegon Corporation, Book-of-the Month club, Cendant Corporation, Children’s Better Health Institute, Children’s Television Workshop, Danbury Mint, Easton Press, Grolier Enterprises, and Mutual of Omaha. His current client roster includes Highlights for Children, MBI and Homeserve.
Nancy is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in the insert media and instatement arena. She began her career at Spectra Products in an administrative role and now handles sales and account management for notable clients such as The Bradford Exchange, Boscov’s, Dell Financial Services, Full Beauty Brands, TV Guide and various newspaper statement programs. She is well versed at identifying expansion opportunities on both the advertiser and issuer side of the business.
Nicole has over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of human resources and operations. She has a strong background in benefits and payroll management, employer compliance, advertising/marketing efforts and event planning. Her expertise in these areas allows exceptional management of corporate operations across the organization. Nicole’s focus at Specialists is overseeing and managing various corporate functions to ensure proper employer branding, staffing Specialists with the top performers in the industry and successful and visionary corporate marketing efforts.
Pam began her direct marketing career in 1991 with roles both creative and in print production. She joined the Specialists Marketing Services team in 2008 and is responsible for creative and print production, network and database administration for the Insert Media/Instatement team. She also is our social media expert and oversees all social media activity and interaction for the company.
Randi has 26 years’ experience in the advertising and direct marketing industries. She began her career in traditional advertising at one of the top 100 advertising agencies in New York City, working on accounts including Chase Manhattan Bank, Lotus, Waverly Fabrics, Heineken Beer, Tonka Toys, and Quaker Oats. Randi transitioned to the catalog industry as Senior Ad Buyer where she represented 22 catalogs at Genesis Direct. Furthering her career, Randi worked at Venture Direct as a List Acquisition Specialist; she then held the position of Vice President, List Rental with Opt In Inc. In 2005 she joined AcquireWeb to spearhead the Postal List Management division at Acquire Marketing Services.
Randi joined Specialists Marketing Services in 2007 when their Interactive division was established. She manages a roster of Fortune 500 clients and her focus is providing efficient and savvy solutions to clients in the Interactive space.
Sarah brings over 18 years of experience to her role at Specialists Marketing Services. Starting off on the mailer side, Sarah began her career at Haband. Now on the agency side, Sarah’s creative talent and vision leads our creative services efforts. She leads the planning and executing of creative campaigns for some of our top Media as well as internal campaigns to promote Specialists suite of products. Sarah’s focus is on creating engaging graphics and content to increase brand awareness across both digital and offline marketing channels.
With 40 years of experience in the direct marketing field, Lon’s extensive experience spans media management, customer acquisition, insert media and digital. He has been a trusted partner to many industry veterans and leaders. Lon’s vision is to serve our clients with the best media mix of traditional and non-traditional marketing channels. He is responsible for general management, corporate strategy and organizational development. He oversees the company to ensure quality service is provided to clients and growing into new and different markets. Client success is Lon’s first priority and the foundation of the culture for this organization. He has gained considerable insight and knowledge over the years, working with some of the top direct marketing companies in the country. Lon was honored as List Leader of the Year in 2011 by the DMA for his outstanding contributions to the list and data industry.
Nora brings more than three decades of financial and operational experience to her role. Her aptitude and dedication ensure the Specialists team runs efficiently and financially sound. Prior to her current role as CFO of SMS Marketing Services, Inc., Nora served as Executive Vice President and Financial Director of Specialists Marketing Services, Inc. She has acquired substantial knowledge and expertise in the direct marketing business and has successfully served the financial needs of corporations such as SpeciaLISTS Ltd and Dependable Lists. In 2006, she was selected winner of the “President’s Circle” Award by ClientLogic. Nora is responsible for all financial functions of the company.
Anna has 20 years of experience in the direct marketing field with expertise in data and multi-channel marketing solutions. She began her career at Specialists Marketing Services with 14 years in the List Brokerage and List Management Divisions, supporting Fortune 500 brands with their direct mail prospecting efforts and data monetization needs. In 2014, she joined the Data Solutions Group providing brands, agencies and ad-tech partners with high quality audiences that support multi-channel marketing programs, customer acquisition efforts and house file analytics. Her current role is in sales and business development as well as data partnership development.
Anthony has over ten years of experience in the Insert Media arena. Prior to joining Specialists Marketing Services in 2015, Anthony held a sales position at MHI. He is extremely adept and knowledgeable in the areas of customer acquisition through various marketing channels including insert media and business development. Anthony’s focus is new business development in the Insert Media division and introducing marketers to a growing and highly successful channel to reach new customers.
Dawn started in the industry in 1999 with Spectra Products. She began as an account manager and specialized in relationship and account management. Dawn then moved into a sales role where she now manages top clients such as Defender Direct, Globe Life Insurance and Santander Auto Loans. Dawn is extremely well versed in various Insert Media channels, creative and print, and business development.
James started his career in 1994 at Computer Marketing Services, Inc., an in-house service bureau for The SpeciaLISTS, Ltd., where he managed list fulfillment databases for several key clients. James has held several positions within Computer Marketing Systems, Inc. eventually overseeing all client fulfillment and then later also joining The SpeciaLISTS, Ltd. IT Operations group. At Specialists Marketing Services, James oversees all IT Operations and our in-house list fulfillment service bureau which delivers technical services solutions to our media management client roster.
Jeremy has 20 years of experience in the Direct Marketing industry. He started with the Millard Group in 1997 as an intern and then joined the company full time in 1999. He grew within the company; managed a significant workload and played a key role in his clients’ ability to grow their direct mail efforts successfully. With a primary focus on consumer publishing, he has significant experience working with continuity mailers, catalogers, B2B and non-profits. Jeremy has been recognized by the DMA as the Ron Davis Young List Professional of the Year; has been published in Direct Magazine, DM News, and Target Marketing and has also taken part in numerous speaking engagements for the DMA and MPA. Jeremy joined Specialists Marketing Services, Inc. in 2006 and has grown the organization’s presence in the consumer publishing market place significantly. At Specialists, Jeremy oversees customer acquisition efforts for key clients such as PubWorX, which includes the Hearst Publications and Conde Nast titles, The Economist, Bonnier, The Week, Rodale and America’s Test Kitchen.
Joanne Adams has over 20 years combined experience in direct marketing client services and operations management, advertising and marketing, print, production, media management and customer acquisition. She has served as Vice President of Operations at CPC Associates, which was acquired by Epsilon where she went on to serve as Vice President, Client Management of the Data Services division. Prior to her role at SMS, Joanne served as EVP of Operations for Spectra Data Group. Joanne has a strong commitment to operational excellence, innovative approaches to create business solutions and helping customers achieve high levels of productivity through technology and strategic initiatives. Her extensive understanding of business operations, infrastructure, and application deployments, as well as her knowledge of products and services, help her in leading her team to continual success.
Julie has been a member of the Specialists team for over 17 years, and works with multi-titled apparel and home décor retail clients such as GE, Alliance Data Systems (ADS), and Macy’s. She has successfully managed the distinctly different requirements of the individual brands under the multi-titled client umbrellas, while posting year-over-year revenue growth.
Kathy brings 20 years of experience in the Direct Marketing industry. She has held sales positions at Mokrynski Direct (now Infogroup) Belardi Ostroy and Specialists Marketing Services. Her expertise is in the areas of Media Management, New Business Development and Strategic Partnerships. Her past and current client roster includes prestigious brands such as Victoria’s Secret, J. Crew, Harriet Carter, Restoration Hardware, Hammacher Schlemmer, Ballard Designs, Travelsmith, Harry & David, PulseTV, Race Running Registrants, Athleta, Title Nine, Provide Commerce, Company Store, etc. Kathy rejoined Specialists Marketing Services in 2016 where her focus is on new business development and multi-channel marketing across the organization.
With 25 years of Direct Marketing experience, Mary Ann has held sales and operational positions at Total Media Concepts and Database America before joining the Specialists Marketing Services team in 1994. She has maintained senior roles in the division in both sales and operations over her tenure and is currently responsible for major accounts such as America’s Test Kitchen, PubWorX, Guthy-Renker, New York Post, Meredith Modeling, Playboy and Proactiv. She attends all key industry shows and events, and frequently travels throughout the country meeting with brokers and mailers. At Specialists Marketing Services, Mary Ann oversees both sales efforts as well as client services for accounts in the Media Management division.
Melissa has a diverse background in media buying and new business development having worked for Equinox Broadcasting and Gotham Inc., a division of McCann Erickson. While there, she worked with clients such as Maybelline, Empire Blue Cross and Pfizer. In less than three years after joining SMS in 2002, Melissa and her team signed on thirteen new business accounts including Royal Caribbean, American Eagle Outfitters, Nextel, Nissan USA and Lincoln Automotive. In her current role at SMS, Melissa leads the Insert Media/Instatement team in the management of current clients and development of new revenue streams.
Mike is a seasoned direct marketing consultant with over 30 years’ experience, specializing in direct response through insert media, direct mail and print media. He develops strategies and customizes solutions that will help increase the success and profitability of his clients. He works with clients in the areas of customer acquisition, customer retention, and maximizing the customer lifetime value. He is well known and respected for his creativity, negotiating skills and hands on approach. His client list has included such fortune 500 companies as: Aegon Corporation, Book-of-the Month club, Cendant Corporation, Children’s Better Health Institute, Children’s Television Workshop, Danbury Mint, Easton Press, Grolier Enterprises, and Mutual of Omaha. His current client roster includes Highlights for Children, MBI and Homeserve.
Nancy is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in the insert media and instatement arena. She began her career at Spectra Products in an administrative role and now handles sales and account management for notable clients such as The Bradford Exchange, Boscov’s, Dell Financial Services, Full Beauty Brands, TV Guide and various newspaper statement programs. She is well versed at identifying expansion opportunities on both the advertiser and issuer side of the business.
Nicole has over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of human resources and operations. She has a strong background in benefits and payroll management, employer compliance, advertising/marketing efforts and event planning. Her expertise in these areas allows exceptional management of corporate operations across the organization. Nicole’s focus at Specialists is overseeing and managing various corporate functions to ensure proper employer branding, staffing Specialists with the top performers in the industry and successful and visionary corporate marketing efforts.
Pam began her direct marketing career in 1991 with roles both creative and in print production. She joined the Specialists Marketing Services team in 2008 and is responsible for creative and print production, network and database administration for the Insert Media/Instatement team. She also is our social media expert and oversees all social media activity and interaction for the company.
Randi has 26 years’ experience in the advertising and direct marketing industries. She began her career in traditional advertising at one of the top 100 advertising agencies in New York City, working on accounts including Chase Manhattan Bank, Lotus, Waverly Fabrics, Heineken Beer, Tonka Toys, and Quaker Oats. Randi transitioned to the catalog industry as Senior Ad Buyer where she represented 22 catalogs at Genesis Direct. Furthering her career, Randi worked at Venture Direct as a List Acquisition Specialist; she then held the position of Vice President, List Rental with Opt In Inc. In 2005 she joined AcquireWeb to spearhead the Postal List Management division at Acquire Marketing Services.
Randi joined Specialists Marketing Services in 2007 when their Interactive division was established. She manages a roster of Fortune 500 clients and her focus is providing efficient and savvy solutions to clients in the Interactive space.
Sarah brings over 18 years of experience to her role at Specialists Marketing Services. Starting off on the mailer side, Sarah began her career at Haband. Now on the agency side, Sarah’s creative talent and vision leads our creative services efforts. She leads the planning and executing of creative campaigns for some of our top Media as well as internal campaigns to promote Specialists suite of products. Sarah’s focus is on creating engaging graphics and content to increase brand awareness across both digital and offline marketing channels.
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