Her Story
About Melissa
Melissa McGowan serves as a digital marketing advisor at FedEx, leading omni-channel strategic marketing campaigns for the transportation company. Her work encompasses sweepstakes campaigns run throughout the year and sponsorship partnerships with the PGA and NFL, as well as marketing initiatives for various products and services to support customer relationships. Prior to her role at FedEx, McGowan worked at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center as Broadway marketing manager, where she handled marketing for productions including shows by Leslie Odom Jr. and Wicked. She is actively involved in philanthropic initiatives, donating to and training for the St. Jude Half Marathon, supporting Wounded Warriors, and backing the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. McGowan credits her family as her motivation for success, noting that she stepped back from a management position when joining FedEx to balance career and home responsibilities, and she hopes to model for her children that they can pursue their dreams even when challenging. She advises young professionals entering the industry to prioritize leaders who are supportive and invested in their development over the specific role itself.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
My family is my why. I do what I do in part because I want them to see me be successful in more ways than just being a mom. Mom is important to me, but also being out in the world contributing through the community. I want my kids to know that whatever dream they have, whether staying at home or chasing a dream out in the world, they can do it even when it's hard. I took a step back in my career from a management position when moving to FedEx because I wanted to be able to do both and knew the people at home needed me more at that time.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Your leaders are more important than the role itself. Having fantastic managers, directors, and VPs who are influential and supportive makes your day-to-day more manageable and enjoyable, even if it's not the perfect job. Relationships, support, and leaders you trust are a huge key to success and finding joy in your job. Leaders who invest in building their people are the best kind.
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