Tom Whitman

ION Division President

Though marketing is eventually about connecting a product or service to a consumer, when you put people first, you get out of a sales mindset and into the mindset of authentically, helping connect people and brands to benefit both sides.

What is one thing you love about working at Bovitz/ION/Communify?

I’m equally proud of both of the main “products” of the ION/Communify team: our marketing work and our people. Without one, the other is not as meaningful. Not only do I get to participate in great marketing projects, I also get to collaborate with amazing people who push me and inspire me.

Tell me about a life-changing experience you’ve had.

It is cliché, but the first time I experienced Burning Man. It changed my relationship to creativity. It took me back to when I was much younger and prioritized creativity in a way that it is harder to do as you grow up. The Burn reminded me that I could center creativity in my life, in a variety of ways, for the rest of my life.

What's something that people are surprised to learn about you?

For a while, I supported myself doing two very different things: showing my paintings in galleries and teaching hip-hop dance classes.

What inspires you?

Travel, creativity, new experiences, unexpected moments of beauty. Anything that opens my mind in a new way.

Why is being people-first important to you?

Though marketing is eventually about connecting a product or service to a consumer, when you put people first, you get out of a sales mindset and into the mindset of authentically, helping connect people and brands to benefit both sides.

In the Industry: Since 2001

At Bovitz: Since 2015

Education: BA in Media Theory/Mass Communications, UCLA and graduate work in English, UCLA

His best quality: Loyal