2021 Honoree

Alison Grabowski is a relative newcomer to the automotive aftermarket, having only joined the industry about four years ago. However, the fast pace of the work in a rapidly evolving industry quickly reeled her in, she says. “The automotive aftermarket moves so fast, at the speed of light. As a result of that, we sometimes push to make quick and hasty decisions, but I’ve learned the value of method marketing,” she says. 

In terms of what gives her the most satisfaction in her role as Marketing Manager for MANN+HUMMEL Filtration Technology, Grabowski says it’s the methodology she’s been able to implement within her team, leading to greater productivity and efficiencies. “I practice a quick-paced, yet data-driven approach to solving problems as they come up, identifying opportunities and advancing program efforts,” she says. “So now, when I’m faced with a marketing or business challenge, I encourage the team to evaluate the full opportunity and look at the big picture, to kind of distill those meaningful insights and stay focused, execute and measure. I am proud that it has created a better-quality product with greater efficiencies.”

Grabowski applies this same strategic thinking to her career as well and advises other women to play to their strengths. “I would start by defining myself first as a marketing professional. Your actions and contributions and behavior are your reputation. When you develop and define that, you master your reputation. Don’t let others define it for you,” she says.