Type Of Business:
Communications technology company
Marketing Area:
Local; Regional; National
Expertise:
Sales: Negotiation; Team leadership; Mentoring; Problem-solving; Motivation
Major Product/SVS:
Speech software; Mobile applications, Custom Application Development and Consulting Services
Favorite Business Publication:
Wall Street Journal; Chicago Crains Business; Fast Track
Hobbies/Sports:
Swimming; Golf; Reading; Coaching youth sports teams; Working out; Practicing yoga
Education Degrees:
Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Psychology, University of Dayton (1976)
Affiliations Awards:
Alumni Association, University of Dayton; National Association of Female Executives
Date of Distinction:
9/6/2011
What do you feel separates you from the rest of the professionals in your industry?:
She stands out because of her drive to achieve and excel to keep on keepin' on.
What has been the most outstanding thing you have done thus far in your career?:
Her greatest career achievement is being named the first female vice president of ITT-USTS Corporation in 1987 while being in an industry of all men.
How would you like to be remembered by your peers?:
She would like to be remembered as being a part of a team; a leader when needed to be a leader; a participant when needed; and someone that people could go to when they needed ease. She is a positive person who feels the glass is always 3/4 full.
If you could solve one problem in the world today, what would it be?:
If she could solve one problem in the world today it would be economic problems.
Throughout the duration of your career, what was the one highlight that stood out the most?:
The highlight of her career was being named first female vice president at ITT.
Charity:
Teen Living Program; Chicago Church Guild; St. Paul of the Cross; Notre Dame Preparatory High School, university of Dayton
Number Of Years In Profession:
32
Number Of Years In Current Position:
21
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her success to her solid family foundation, hard work, commitment, strong work ethic and organizational skills.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Overseeing sales of industry solutions; Developing new business; Cultivating business form key accounts; Maintaining strong client relationships; Overseeing various team members regarding individual accounts nationally; Conducting sales training; Negotiating contracts
Awards/Honors:
First Female Vice-President, ITT-USTS Corporation (1987);
Various Sales and Sales Management Achievement Awards; Nuance President Award
Where Will You Be In 5 Years:
In five years, Ms. Downing-Smith intends to continue developing clientele for provisions of appropriate call center services.