Source: Fiji Times
By Filipe Naigulevu
14 April 2018
Fong Takes Over Role
CREATIVITY often requires one to break out of the established norms in order to create a unique and different perspective about things.
But at the same time, it is also putting intelligence into a more fun and innovative aspect.
This trait rings true for Karen Fong, an experienced marketing personnel with a diverse portfolio particularly in the events management and communications sector.
With experience spanning more than 10 years, Ms Fong is stamping her mark in the local scene with her recent appointment as the managing director of The Greenhouse Studio — an award-winning, multidisciplinary, Fiji-based creative studio.
The company specialises in branding, corporate events, print, digital and integrated communication experiences, with a focus on finding innovative solutions that inspire change.
With a zeal for her work, Ms Fong brings with her a diverse portfolio and professional experience in marketing, advertising, strategic planning, project management, integrated marketing communications, brand development, research, customer service and events management.
She is also graduating this month with a Diploma in Digital Marketing from the prestigious Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) headquartered in the UK.
Ms Fong takes over the role from Maria Ronna Luna Pastorizo-Sekiguchi, whose brainchild was The Greenhouse Studio.
She began her career as an events and promotions officer at FBC and then worked on certain projects in Papua New Guinea, before moving back home to Fiji to continue her marketing, events and advertising professional journey at Oceanic Communications.
This is where she met The Greenhouse Studio’s managing and creative director Ms Pastorizo-Sekiguchi, who was then Oceanic’s general manager creative.
Since joining the company, Ms Fond had climbed up the ranks from being The Greenhouse Studio’s marketing and events manager to managing director.
“Karen is a force of nature, and from the moment I met her I saw her potential and knew immediately that she is destined to lead and to do great things,” Ms Pastorizo-Sekiguchi said.
“She has an unbelievable work ethic, entirely dedicated to client service as well as marketing excellence.
“I do not doubt for a second that she will take the company to greater heights through her leadership which is even being broadened and enhanced further through the Leadership Fiji 2018 program that Karen is presently part of.”
Ms Pastorizo-Sekiguchi said Ms Fong would be responsible for overseeing all aspects of The Greenhouse studio’s work, from management to client service to integrated communications.
“I am looking forward to the challenge and I am thrilled to take one of Fiji’s most innovative growing companies to the next level through hard honest work, strategy and creativity,” Ms Fong said.
“This year and 2019 we are working on some pretty exciting projects and products that will demonstrate the company as a creative and innovative leader in the region.”
The Greenhouse Studio recently celebrated its fourth birthday in March marking a phenomenal four years in business to date.
This has seen significant growth in numbers, profits, and local and international clientele.
The new appointment will see Ms Pastorizo-Sekiguchi stepping down as managing and creative director to a new position as The Greenhouse Studio’s creative and innovation director focusing on the company’s business and product development in multiple sectors.
