Every so often, our editorial staff selects one aftermarket industry professional to get to know a little better. Participants are asked to respond to a series of questions that can be answered in about the same amount of time you might spend chatting at the office coffee pot or waiting for an elevator. In this installment of “5 Minutes With,” we get to know Valerie Rothermel-Nelson, strategic marketing director for ITW Evercoat.

What was your first job in the industry?                

I joined the ITW Global Body Repair Division as global strategic marketing director in September of 2018.

What would you say you like most about your current position?

Working on a team that is passionate about being market leaders in our industry and continuously innovating and striving for excellence to benefit our customers and end-users. 

Did you initially intend to pursue a career in the aftermarket? If not, what drew you to the industry and what keeps you here?  

Not initially, no. I was previously working as strategic marketing manager for ITW’s Fluids Platform Team and supporting five global divisions when I got the opportunity to meet many in our Automotive Aftermarket Team through ITW’s leadership academy and ITW Women’s Network events. When an opportunity came up to work in our Global Body Repair Division as its new marketing director, I knew it could be a perfect fit for me. It was a great opportunity for me to bring my skillset and leadership style to this division, work with an amazing team, learn new end-user markets and lead a new retail growth initiative for our body repair business.

I am passionate about helping teams develop and execute on compelling value propositions in their businesses; that is a significant contribution I have been able to make and an area I continue to enjoy. Despite challenging market conditions at times, with the smart, hard work of our team, it has been a very rewarding and fun experience!

What do you do when not at work? 

I am passionate about fitness and love to take long cross-country runs, spend time with my family, friends and pets and volunteer. Later this year I plan to run a half-marathon. I also enjoy water skiing, paddle boarding and fishing.  

What one word best sums up your personality? 

Determined.

 What are you currently reading?   

“The Runner’s Devotional: Inspiration and Motivation for Life’s Journey … On and Off the Road,” by Dana Niesluchowski. 

Who was your childhood hero?  

My Mom. 

Favorite quote/mantra/motto?  

“Do not sweat the small stuff – life is too short!”