The year was 1976.

I started my career in marketing communications in 1976. That same year the Space Shuttle Enterprise rolled out, Apple Computer Company was formed, and a little-known company named Microsoft registered as a business.

As you might imagine, I’ve seen a lot of industry change over the years – from the advent of the personal computer and the cell phone, to the birth of the Internet and social media. I count myself as lucky because my business life has always been mentally engaging, quick-paced, and deeply fulfilling. Yes, it has been a rockin’ ride!

I began working in public relations at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle and later relocated to California where I worked in public and media relations for the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. Those were incredible years that gave me access to interviewing some of the brightest minds in biomedical science on the planet.

Going out on my own.

Athens, Greece

After that I launched two of my own endeavors in marketing communications-first as a partner in Rainwater, Snow, Lindstrom and later as the owner of Snow Communications. In 1996, I sold the latter company and moved to Portland to take on the position of marketing director for Otak, an architectural, engineering, and urban planning firm. Then in 1999 I joined the immensely talented staff at HB Design where I’m currently vice president. What a terrific group of people and what a high point to bid adieu to this incredible career.

The next chapter.

This summer on July 31st I will retire from this position to travel a lot more, spend time with family, and hopefully start a new undertaking as a travel writer. In the months to come I plan to launch a blog: She the World (shetheworld.com), aimed at female travelers who want to explore the planet and connect with other cultures and viewpoints. Look for more information on this new gig from me some time in the future.

To my HB Clients.

Thank you so much for your confidence in me and our team and for the meaningful work you entrust to us. Be assured you will continue to be in the good hands of the same dedicated team you have always worked with here after my departure. To my many other business friends and associates, please feel free to call my cell phone at any time for a chat or meet-up. Our relationship and conversations are important to me and I want them to carry on.

Trekking in the Everest region

In the meantime, I will continue moving forward and following the profound advice of Facebook’s Sheryl Sandberg: “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat! Just get on.”

All my best and warm wishes always,

Gail Snow

Vice President, HB Design

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