Ep 051 – Debra Rizzi, Rizco Design – WBENC Agency Tips

Featuring: Debra Rizzi, Rizco Design

In episode 051, I had the great privilege of speaking with my long-time friend, Debra Rizzi, partner and president of Rizco, a women-owned brand-led marketing agency. We got to discuss the launch and evolution of her agency nearly 25 years ago, the benefits of becoming a certified woman-owned business, and the integration of new tools and processes like EOS. She emphasizes the importance of community involvement and maintaining core values and culture in her agency. She also talks about her day-to-day responsibilities and offers business advice, including the significance of gratitude and self-acknowledgment.

Key Takeaways

• Launching a business can arise from unexpected circumstances and opportunities. • Becoming a certified woman-owned business can open doors and provide access to funding and resources. • Integrating new tools and processes can enhance efficiency and effectiveness. • Community involvement and maintaining core values and culture are essential for long-term success. • Expressing gratitude and acknowledging personal achievements are important for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 01:08 The Launch of Rizco 05:47 Certification as a Women-Owned Business 07:04 Benefits of Women-Owned Business Certification 09:34 Integration of New Tools and Processes 10:17 Business Development Opportunities 12:40 Involvement in the Community 20:53 Day-to-Day Responsibilities 25:23 Binging and New Tools 27:15 Business Advice 29:36 Gratitude and Self-Acknowledgment 29:59 Closing Remarks

Debra Rizzi has over 25 years of experience in developing brand strategies for local, national, and international companies. She is a partner and president of Rizco, a woman-owned, brand-led marketing agency, which she co-founded in 2000.

Upon graduating from Bucknell University, Debra worked in the finance department of corporate Lord & Taylor. Later, she managed the creative department of the global public relations firm, Porter Novelli.

Debra is a past NJ Biz “40 Under 40” recipient and 2020 NJBIZ’s “50 Best Women in Business” Award. She is a member of many business organizations, currently serves on Wall High School’s Business and Finance Academy’s Advisory Board, and served 8 years on Bucknell University’s Alumni Association Board of Directors.

On a personal level, Debra’s partner in life and in business is her husband, Keith, and together they balance the lives of their three daughters, Mia, Marley, and Monroe.

Contact Debra through her agency website, Facebook, Instagram, or on Linkedin.