Island Sun Times is happy to introduce its newest staff member
– Kimberly Graham, Executive Account Manager.

While Kimberly is relatively new to the indoor tanning industry, many might already recognize her name – she joined the publication in December 2004 as a Staff Writer, and she interviewed many salon professionals and industry veterans for IST salon spotlights and feature stories. In March, a position in the sales department opened up, and Kimberly jumped at the opportunity. As Executive Account Manager, Kimberly will serve the majority of IST’s advertiser accounts.

While this description of her duties might seem routine, the energy, enthusiasm and direction that Kimberly brings to the position is anything but. “I was excited about the change because it gives me the opportunity to do something different while still contributing to the overall quality of IST,” she said. “It’s my goal to establish and build close relationships with our advertisers, and show them how IST can provide more and different advertising opportunities, thus offering them more value.”

Kimberly brings an interesting background and professional experience to IST. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Business from Ferris State University, as well as a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Michigan. She also earned a B.A. in Communications/Mass Media from U of M. For the past 13 years she has worked as a TV news producer, which certainly kept her busy; 14-hour days were not uncommon. But after the birth of her daughter, Skyler Gray, Kimberly decided it was time for a career that offered a more set schedule. Fortunately for her, she had a friend in the right place – Jodee Settle, IST Graphic Designer. “Jodee and I have been friends for the past 20 years, and when she told me about the opportunity at IST, I was ecstatic!” Kimberly exclaimed. “I’ve been an indoor tanner since my teenage years, and I wanted a job in a fun, exciting environment, and now I’ve found it.”

At IST, Kimberly says she’s found a home. “I truly have an enormous amount of respect for everyone I work with at IST,” she commented. “Everyone here is very creative, intelligent and passionate about what they do. We are one, big family here that uses humor and camaraderie to get through the busy times, and I truly look forward to coming to work each day.”