Rhiannon Blackwell, ABM Leader at PwC, discusses starting an ABM program from scratch, achieving Sales and Marketing alignment, the importance of personalization for ABM success, and how to measure ABM success. They also explore refining ABM strategies, client relationship building, and the challenges of defining and navigating ABM initiatives.
Importance of aligning vision and objectives for successful ABM program initiation.
Focus on personalized value delivery and continuous learning for scaling ABM program.
Deep dives
Challenges in Starting ABM at PwC
Starting ABM at PwC posed initial challenges in aligning expectations and objectives for the program. Resetting expectations around ABM amidst differing understandings of the strategy was crucial. The focus was on aligning a single vision and objectives across marketing and the business, emphasizing a test-and-learn approach while gaining stakeholder buy-in.
Defining Strategic ABM Amidst Confusion
Distinguishing between different marketing strategies under the ABM umbrella was a challenge, causing confusion. Strategic ABM was contrasted with more automated marketing methods, emphasizing personalized, bespoke solutions over mass targeting. Hiring for ABM skills presented discrepancies in understanding the varied disciplines under the ABM umbrella.
Evolving ABM Approach at PwC
Beginning with a few select accounts, the ABM program at PwC gradually scaled to 20 accounts over time. Prioritization was based on existing segmentation within priority global accounts, focusing on account attractiveness and alignment with program objectives. Success was measured not only by account growth but also by the personalized value delivered to clients.
Year Two Focus: Scaling Smartly and Fine-Tuning
Transitioning into the second year of the ABM program, the focus shifted towards scaling smartly and fine-tuning strategies. Emphasizing technology's role in streamlining operational tasks to enable deeper personalization and enhance client relationships. Setting up an ABM innovation lab aimed at continuous learning and optimizing program effectiveness.
In this episode of Let’s talk ABM, Declan speaks with Rhiannon Blackwell, ABM Leader, Global Marketing Organization at PwC. Over the course of the last 18 months, Rhiannon has built up the team and capability from scratch. With a team now of 20+ ABM professionals she is scaling the program to drive growth in PwC's top-tier accounts.
Here’s what they cover:
What it takes to stand up an ABM program from scratch
How to achieve Sales and Marketing alignment
Why personalization is key for ABM success
How to measure ABM success
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