Richard O’Connor
Position: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Company: B2B Marketing
Background and Experience
Richard O'Connor is the CEO of B2B Marketing, a Community Intelligence business that incorporates events, awards, marketing services, and the award-winning digital community, Propolis. He has extensive experience in both B2C and B2B media and SaaS. Prior to his current role, he significantly contributed to several high-profile companies:
- The Independent: Led the Creative Solutions team.
- UBM Built Environment: Established the Client Solutions team.
- UBM and Informa: Directed a global Sales and Marketing transformation program across Asia, EMEA, and the US.
- Radius (RELX): Managed the commercial team for this real estate SaaS platform.
Insights and Professional Approach
Richard O'Connor is recognized as a determined and engaging leader capable of setting, communicating, and executing strategies in a multinational context. He places significant emphasis on the synergetic relationship between sales and marketing. O'Connor asserts that while marketing often lays the groundwork for sales success, its contributions frequently remain unacknowledged.
He advocates for better integration and recognition of marketing efforts within sales strategies, reinforcing the idea that marketing's role is crucial in closing deals. His strategic perspectives emphasize that innovation and adaptability are essential for staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry. He has mentioned the use of models and metrics to drive commercial success and expressed a particular interest in advancing their unique "community index."
Speaker Engagements and Public Appearances
Richard O’Connor is an active speaker and thought leader in the B2B marketing sphere. His contributions include:
- B2B Ignite 2024 and Martechopia 2023: Discussed topics related to community intelligence and its role in business growth.
- Various Podcasts: Regular guest discussing leadership in B2B marketing, the impact of AI on marketing, and the evolving nature of business communities.
Strategic Perspectives and Vision
Richard O'Connor has consistently championed the idea of pushing boundaries and embracing ambitious goals. He advises aspiring professionals to view challenges as opportunities for growth and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and advice—a practice he believes exemplifies strength rather than weakness.
In one notable podcast episode, O'Connor shared his belief that "the cap on what is possible is significantly higher than you set for yourself," encouraging professionals to continuously surpass self-imposed limits.
B2B Marketing Overview
Under Richard O’Connor’s leadership, B2B Marketing has become a vital platform for B2B marketers. The company offers a well-rounded blend of services including training, relevant industry news, and best practice advice, all aimed at fostering a collaborative and knowledgeable community.
The company’s flagship digital community, Propolis, serves as a central hub for marketers to share insights, generate ideas, and collaborate on innovative business solutions.
Conclusion
Richard O’Connor's leadership at B2B Marketing highlights his commitment to driving community engagement and leveraging the collective intelligence of marketers for business growth. His career reflects a blend of strategic vision, practical insights, and a keen understanding of the integral relationship between sales and marketing. For stakeholders and potential partners, engaging with Richard and his perspectives promises valuable opportunities for collaboration and strategic advancement in the field of B2B marketing.
