Paul Eagle

Vice President, Financial Services

What has changed the most in the Financial Services industry over the past 5 to 10 years?

The greed and recklessness of a few has changed the perceptions of a once-powerful and trusted industry. This has created a challenge for financial communicators who for so long based their messaging on trust and power. Today, they are better served to show empathy and humility, along with trust and strength.

Where do you see the Financial Services industry headed in the next several years? What trends are on the horizon?

The biggest trend will be the launch of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in July 2011.  At first, big business will resist the added oversight. However, having a federal agency assist consumers in dealing with confusing, incomprehensible and often unfair practices through financial education is a step in the right direction.

What does it take to be a Financial Services leader today?

Speed is a competitive advantage. Firms that are adapting to the new media landscape and engaging both B-to-B and B-to-C customers in social media and other channels are taking more market share.

How has consumer behavior changed in recent years—particularly with regard to the type of information they receive and how they receive it?

Consumers are considerably more skeptical and savvy about financial services than they were even 24 months ago.  They’re connecting with brands through social media more than ever and demanding attention, fairness and service. And if they don’t receive these things, the brands will hear about it.

What resonates with target audiences today?

Transparency, speed and clarity resonate with target audiences, who won’t take excuses anymore about nebulous messaging and slow response times.

What made you want to work in Financial Services?

It’s the largest and most important industry in the world. There is no more important issue that shapes the lives of families than how, why, where and who they trust with their money and security.

What is the best part about working at IMRE?

IMRE is about results.  We understand what’s most important for our clients and we go after it.  We are a smart, energetic and compassionate group of professionals who love our work.

Describe your overall marketing and communications philosophy.

There is no substitute for timely, clear and engaging communications in any industry.

What do you do for fun outside the office?

I’m a huge indie music fan, and I collect records. This hobby has taken me to some of the coolest vintage stores in the country. I’m also a Baltimore Ravens fan and still think our gritty defense will get us back to the Super Bowl soon.

Who inspires you—personally and/or professionally?

We invited Jesse Jackson to speak at an event.  When he finished, he walked by all the VIPs and TV crews and headed straight to the food servers, where he spent a long time signing autographs and talking with them. He focused on a group of people never recognized and I never forgot that lesson in humility. Bill Gates’ commitment in the coming years to help developing countries stop the spread of diseases and end malaria is also very admirable.