CCI graduate, Drew Piers, earned degrees in Public Relations and Political Science back in 2014 before working on his Master’s degree in Applied American Politics and Policy at FSU. Even as an undergraduate student, Piers recognized his passion and talent for problem-solving and evaluating governmental policies with a creative scope. Piers worked as a Policy Intern at the Executive Office of the Governor as a mere freshman, engulfing him in Florida’s political environment and policymaking operations.
Piers started working at Sachs Media Group as a Public Affairs Associate, where he was responsible for the development and implementation of statewide campaigns through advertising, news, and digital media. His significant work in public affairs gave him the title of Deputy Director before being promoted to Partner and the Director of Crisis and Campaigns. Now Piers helps manage the strategy for clients in crisis management, along with effective messaging campaigns designed to influence important policy decisions.
“I have a really fun job that puts our firm in the middle of many of the important policy debates at the local, state, and national levels,” says Piers. “Florida has a very unique political landscape and media environment, which makes every day a little different.”
Piers is one of many College of Communication and Information alums at Sachs, working alongside others such as Shelby Boyd, Daniella Frank, Allison P. Couch, and Hannah Sheffield who are now part of the staff. Many of our CCI students such as Felicity Warner, Savannah Greene, Krissa Robinson, Morgan Payne, and Tarryn Meyers intern at Sachs as well, gaining invaluable experiences and exposure to this dynamic industry.
To get to know more about this political enthusiast, continue reading for Piers’ Q&A.
How has working in your industry changed how you look at the world?
I’m realizing now more than ever how important it is to think critically about issues and policies that affect your life. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the messaging or the partisan talk that often accompanies major policy debates, but taking a step back and realizing that people often have more in common than you realize helps put everything in proper perspective.
How did your education prepare you for your career?
FSU provided me with a solid foundation for my career, and I can’t thank my professors and peers enough. There are some things that you can only learn on the job, but walking into your first career out of college knowing you have the skills you need to succeed is really important and helps you stand out. For my particular field, being able to communicate ideas clearly and concisely – both in writing and verbally – is something that has helped me excel in my work.
Who do you admire and why?
My parents. They have always had an entrepreneurial spirit that has served me well through my life so far and always instilled in me the importance of helping others first – even if it’s not always convenient.
What is the best account to follow on social media?
While my Twitter feed is usually filled with media and political accounts, I always enjoy the Thoughts of Dog Twitter account (@dog_feelings).
Where do you look for inspiration?
Inspiration is one of those things that is elusive when you’re actually looking for it. Sometimes I need to hit the reset button and just get outside. I find that inspiration comes more naturally when you’re out for a jog, playing soccer or disc golf, or just exploring a new area.
How do you handle work-life balance?
The importance of having a healthy work-life balance cannot be overstated. I always recommend that students find a job that they enjoy where they are challenged and have great colleagues. I enjoy coming to work and finding creative solutions to whatever challenge we are working on. While I am always connected to work, my wife and I regularly find the time to travel and experience the things that we love – and that plays a big role in keeping me sane. Like many careers, my work is cyclical which means there are times when it’s all hands on deck and then other times when you can relax and recharge a little more.
What is your favorite office snack?
I’m a sucker for gummy fruit snacks.
What Jeopardy category could you clear, no problem?
DIY Do’s and Don’ts. My wife and I spend more time than we’d like at Home Depot and love doing projects around the house.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Always strive to be the most reasonable person in the room. I believe that making a habit out of that practice will serve you well in life!
Share a notable experience you’ve had at work.
It’s always exciting when you have the opportunity to work on big projects that directly affect you. One campaign that I loved working on was an effort to expand ridesharing services – like Lyft and Uber – across the state. I use ridesharing services regularly and see the immense value of them, and it was really special getting to work so hard on a campaign that resulted in the Florida Legislature passing statewide ridesharing laws. From keeping drunk drivers off the roads to helping increase mobility for seniors and people with disabilities, there are so many benefits to that ridesharing and it was an honor to play a role in expanding that important service.
What advice would you give yourself in college?
Shoot high and get as much professional experience as you can. During my first semester as a freshman at FSU, I applied for an internship in the Governor’s Office with the help of one of my professors. Even though my resume was only about a sentence long, I was fortunate to land that internship and it was a tremendous learning experience that taught me a lot and helped prepare me for my future career endeavors.
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