Nick Burgess | Vice President, Social Media and Email Marketing | First Horizon Bank
Nick Burgess’s journey into the dynamic world of marketing began in an unconventional way—through the airwaves. Starting his career in radio, Nick took his first steps into the professional realm as a board operator and on-air producer for a nationally syndicated show. While managing social media marketing for the station, he discovered his passion and knack for the field. This initial exposure laid the foundation for a remarkable career in digital marketing, one that would see him collaborate with some of the most prominent public brands worldwide. At EliteX, we are proud to have Nick Burgess as part of the edition: 20 Under 40: Influential & Rising Leaders of 2024.
For Nick, the transition from radio to digital marketing was both organic and inspiring. His early role demanded hands-on involvement in market research and organic social media strategies. This experience demonstrated to him that marketing was not just a viable career path but also an enjoyable and rewarding one. Over time, Nick’s career evolved as he embraced opportunities to work with top-tier global brands, each experience further igniting his passion for delivering best-in-class marketing performance. “I realized marketing could be a meaningful career while working on social media for the radio station,” he shares. “It opened doors to incredible opportunities and inspired me to push boundaries in every project I take on.” As with any journey, Nick’s rise in the marketing industry wasn’t without challenges. One of his most significant hurdles was navigating the complexities of bad management in his early career. These experiences, while difficult, were transformative. They taught him invaluable lessons about the kind of leader he aspired to be.
“Don’t box yourself in early—explore the breadth of marketing to find your true passion.”
“Bad management showed me exactly what I didn’t want to do when leading my own team,” Nick explains. “It was a clear roadmap of what not to emulate, and it reinforced the importance of creating a positive, supportive work environment.” This mindset has shaped Nick’s leadership style, guiding him to foster a workplace where empathy and understanding take center stage. Nick attributes much of his growth to the mentorship he received from a former manager. This individual not only provided him with a robust foundation in social media through what Nick affectionately calls a “social media bootcamp” but also exemplified the qualities of an empathetic and caring leader. “She showed us that work isn’t just about tasks and deliverables; it’s about genuinely caring for the people you work with,” Nick says. This approach resonates deeply with him, influencing his philosophy as a leader who values the human aspect of team management.
Among his numerous achievements, Nick is particularly proud of his role in launching Turner Broadcasting’s first VOD services—FilmStruck and BOOM—which eventually evolved into the HBO streaming app, “Max.” This project marked his transition from the agency side of marketing to working directly within a company’s internal agency, providing him with valuable insights into both creative execution and strategic innovation. “Being part of such a transformative initiative was incredibly fulfilling,” Nick reflects. “It wasn’t just about launching a product; it was about pioneering a new way for audiences to engage with content.” Nick’s ability to stay motivated and focused in the ever-changing marketing landscape is fueled by the dynamic nature of the industry itself. From fluctuating regulatory environments to emerging technologies, the challenges are constant and invigorating.
“Banking has never been in such a state of flux, with changing regulations and political influences keeping everyone on their toes,” he says. “This environment pushes me to stay sharp and proactive.” For Nick, leadership is more than just managing tasks; it’s about understanding the people behind the work. Empathy is a cornerstone of his approach, ensuring his team feels supported both personally and professionally. “If someone on my team is struggling, the first step is to address the root cause of their challenges,” he explains. “Only after we’ve worked through personal concerns can we truly focus on delivering high-quality work.” This focus on empathy has helped Nick build cohesive, motivated teams that consistently achieve outstanding results.
“Innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the key to staying ahead in digital marketing.”
Working in the fast-paced social media field means Nick’s workday rarely has a definitive end. Yet, he has found a way to strike a balance between professional commitments and personal life. By setting clear boundaries and adhering to a structured routine, Nick ensures he dedicates time to both his family and his career. “My day is split into focused blocks of time,” he shares. “Mornings are for family, work occupies 9 to 5, and evenings are a mix of family and catching up on tasks before bed.” In Nick’s view, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for staying relevant in digital marketing. With the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence and other transformative technologies, he ensures his team is always ahead of the curve. “We were the first team in the company to engage with our new internal AI Council,” Nick notes. “This proactive approach allows us to explore tools, strategies, and ideas that keep us at the forefront of the industry.”
Nick encourages newcomers to the marketing field to adopt a broad, exploratory approach early in their careers. By gaining experience across various disciplines—social media, email marketing, paid search, and beyond—they can identify their true passions and build a versatile skill set. “Don’t box yourself into one area right away,” he advises. “Explore the breadth of marketing and then narrow your focus as you gain experience.” As Nick charts his career trajectory, he has set his sights on an ambitious yet attainable goal: becoming a Chief Marketing Officer. This vision drives his commitment to understanding every facet of marketing, from strategy to execution. “Understanding how all the pieces fit together is one of my biggest strengths,” he says. “With time and hard work, I’m confident I can achieve this goal.”
When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave as a leader, Nick emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and nurturing talent. He is passionate about helping his team members reach their full potential, both creatively and intellectually. “I want to be remembered as someone who truly cared about the team and inspired them to excel,” he says. “Wasted potential is one of my pet peeves, and I believe it’s my responsibility as a leader to ensure no one on my team feels stagnant.”
Nick Burgess’s journey from radio to digital marketing exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Through his empathetic leadership style, innovative mindset, and passion for excellence, he has carved a path that not only advances his own career but also empowers those around him. With a clear vision for the future and a dedication to pushing boundaries, Nick continues to inspire as a rising leader in the dynamic world of marketing.
“Empathy is the cornerstone of leadership—care for the human first, then the employee.”