Julia Rodrigues, MGECOM’s newest Affiliate Account Executive spent a few minutes to tell us more about herself, her background and her interests. Learn more about Julia’s favorite bands, wine and the dark secret that makes her the outcast in her family.. 

How and when did you first get started in affiliate marketing?

I joined Commission Junction at their Santa Barbara, California headquarters office in 2004. I came on board just after graduating from UCSB, and while I did not even know what Affiliate Marketing was at the time, I quickly developed a passion for it. I spent four years with Commission Junction, where I had the opportunity to learn and contribute in a fast-growing, and rapidly evolving industry.

What do you most like about the industry?

Affiliate Marketing is a highly collaborative industry. I have found contributors on all sides of the business are very eager to knowledge share and derive innovative ways to evolve the way we operate and drive new revenue streams.

What improvements you would like to see in the industry?

Advancements to tracking that enable data insights, and even automation of revenue optimization, while preserving client interests in data confidentiality. As an Affiliate Manager, insights to web traffic /demographics analytics, client KPIs for acquisition and retention goals, etc.

Do you see affiliates embracing mobile and social?

Absolutely! Buzz around Mobile and Social was generating when I entered into the Affiliate space in 2004, when these areas were considered some of the next frontiers in Affiliate Marketing. There has always been high interest. It has been exciting to see these Channels begin to gain traction, and that these mediums are finally in the Strategy or even Execution stages for a majority Affiliates and Advertisers.  It is fascinating to be part of an industry that works to create and innovate successful eCommerce opportunities in these Channels.

What other jobs have you had outside of affiliate marketing?

During college, I worked a variety of retail jobs including GAP and Nordstrom, and did a brief stint in Hotel hospitalities in the college / resort town of Santa Barbara, California. Since entering into the professional world, I have worked exclusively in the Online Marketing arena. Outside of Affiliate Marketing I have also done quite a bit of Product Marketing and Business Development.

What are a few of your hobbies?

Documenting my two beautiful children through photography. Next on my list is learning to edit and create videos. Also, having grown up so close to California wine countries my whole live, I can’t help but have wine culture ingrained in me! 

What activities/sports did you do in high school or college?

I played competitive Tennis.

What is your favorite vacation location?

The Gulf Islands of British Columbia, Canada, was a regular childhood vacation destination and will always be a magical place for me. I also love the Hawaiian Islands. I have been to Oahu, Maui, Kauai – next on my list is Big Island.  And for a very local getaway, I regularly visit Lake Tahoe, California.

If you won a lottery, what would be the first thing you’d buy?

I would ensure long-term financial security for my two kids, and then I would travel the world

Your favorite band to see live?

Muse. I am also looking forward to The Smashing Pumpkins next album release and tour

What is your “must see” TV?

Game of Thrones, The Americans,  Homeland

Coke or Pepsi?

Coke! This makes me the black sheep in my family (sorry, Dad).