This year OED is recognizing and celebrating Frederick County’s young professionals who are leaders in their industry, give back to the community and add significant value to their company and its culture. Join us as we get to know our Top 50 Under 40.
Director of Operations
Platinum PR
50 Citizens Way Suite 403-1B, Frederick
platinumpr.com
Sophie Smith is a community-development specialist dedicated to helping small-town economies reach their fullest potential. Sophie is currently the Director of Operations at Platinum PR. Previously the Main Street Manager in Brunswick, Sophie has a strong background in project management, strategy, and communications. Though originally from Maine, Sophie is a Hood College legacy graduate. She has lived in four different countries and speaks two different languages.
Name one award you are most proud to have received.
In 2020, I was recognized for the ‘Service to the Town of Brunswick’ award. In my role as Main Street Manager, I served Brunswick in multiple capacities, primarily working with businesses, property owners, and government officials to achieve their economic development objectives.
What has been your greatest professional accomplishment?
My greatest professional accomplishments include: receiving the Mary Ann Kerins Humanitarian Award in 2018, contributing to the FCOED Diversity & Inclusion program, and guest lecturing to the Hood College Class of 2023 Doctoral students.
What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement? What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement?
I am a member of Sigma Iota Rho International Relations Honors Society, the Hood College Ionic Honors Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society, and the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA). I am on the MEDA Young Leaders committee.
Currently, I am an active volunteer for the American Red Cross as a blood donor ambassador, serve on the board of Creekside Church, and am an election judge in Frederick County.
What was your first job?
My first titled position was as a Global Project Manager at UNESCO Center for Peace. I started working there as an intern tasked with translating documents from French to English. My role grew to Global Project Manager, managing four employees and over 50 volunteers. This job was the impetus for my commitment to diversity and inclusion and taught me to build coalitions among others.
Who has a great influence on your professional life?
I am fortunate to have strong female role models in my life: my current boss, Sandy Dubay; Julie Martorana, who served as the President of the Board of Directors of Brunswick Main Street, my former job; and my mother and sister, to whom I owe everything. These women continually teach me compassion, empathy, fairness, honesty, and respect, qualities that I strive to bring to each task I undertake.