AWM Member Spotlight - Sherree Haevischer-Pence

Member profile –

Can you give us a few personal details about your life?
Originally from Brenham, TX, I have been in Dallas since 1999 and graduated from UNT in Denton.  After graduating I started at WFAA nearly 11 years ago and have been serving on the AWRT/AWM board every since.  I am married to a fellow media person, Geoff Pence with Richards Sports and Entertainment.

How did you get into the industry and what was your first job?
While at UNT I was Ad Sales Manager at the campus newspaper, The North Texas Daily.  From there I was referred by my editor to the VP of recruiting at Belo for a job at WFAA or the DMN.  Shortly after I was offered a rookie AE job at WFAA in May 2001, a few days later, I was accepted into the Broadcast Sales Academy put on by Belo, Lin TV and Hearst-Argyle.   

What can you tell us about your current job?
Still going strong at WFAA after nearly 11 years and loving my new position as Local Sales Manager!  WFAA is a great work environment and allows so much opportunity for their employees.  It is a privilege to work with our strong team and the wonderful partners we work with daily. 

What advice would you give someone new to the industry?
The best advice I have gotten and would share with a rookie would be to stay focused, professional and true to your beliefs.  Our job is about changing fortunes for clients and making a difference every spot at a time.  Being a true advocate for your station/company and just as important to your client, will create lifelong partnerships and friendships.  This in turn breeds success!

Have you had a mentor?
Wow, where do I begin?  There have been many key women that have helped mold my career; Jill Fredericks, Angela Betasso, Nicki Harkrider and Sara Fulmer.  They have helped me to advance to the position I am in today and assisted in all the achievements I have received both at WFAA and within the broadcast community.

What has been your biggest achievement in your career thus far?
My biggest achievement to date is having a great career as an Account Executive at WFAA, but most recently earning the promotion to Local Sales Manager.  I am truly honored to have been provided this opportunity and look forward to the years ahead!

What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
“Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another!”  (Fyodor Dostoevski)