This July, we are shining the spotlight on Margaret Williamson, an Account Executive on our Central Sales team who has been part of #TeamCognitiv for almost two years (her "Cogniversary" hits this October). Based in Dallas, Margaret brings a jack-of-all-trades perspective to every client conversation, having touched media strategy, production, and creative execution long before landing in adtech. Outside the office, she is celebrating big life moments this year, including her engagement in March and adopting her dog Rookie. Read on for her take on Cognitiv's collaborative culture, her advice for new hires, and why chicken fried steak is a once-a-year tradition.

Inside The Office

What does a typical day in your role really look like? 

One of the things I love most about working in adtech sales is that no two days are ever the same. Some days I'm at my desk collaborating over Zoom and building proposals, while other days I'm out all over Dallas meeting with clients, hosting events, or hopping on a last-minute flight. The pace is always changing, which keeps things exciting and pushes me to adapt quickly. There is never a dull or repetitive moment, and that's one of my favorite parts of the job.

‍What’s the part of your job you love most (that might surprise people)? 

Cognitiv maintains a very collaborative culture. We truly work together in a way I haven't experienced at other companies, and there is always an opportunity to learn from one another. Whether it's hearing how another seller navigated a campaign challenge, brainstorming solutions to a client obstacle, or collaborating across teams to solve a problem, there's never a sense that anyone is working in a silo. That constant exchange of ideas makes all of us stronger, and it's a big part of why we're able to continue growing, improving, and delivering better results for our clients. We never stop learning, and we're better because of it.

If your career had a tagline, what would it be? 

Jack of all trades, master of some. My career has always been rooted in advertising, but I've had the opportunity to work across many different facets of the industry. That breadth of experience has given me a well-rounded perspective on how AI fits into the broader marketing ecosystem, while also exposing me to everything from media strategy, film, production, and creative execution. It's made me adaptable, naturally curious, and able to connect the dots between different disciplines in ways that help me better serve my clients.

What advice would you give someone joining #TeamCognitiv? 

I would encourage any new hire to get to know as many people across the company as possible. Cognitiv is full of incredibly talented professionals with a wide range of experiences and expertise, and I've learned so much simply by building relationships across teams. Those connections have helped me grow professionally, given me perspectives I wouldn't have gained otherwise, and continually expanded my knowledge. As an added bonus, you'll make some great friends along the way.

Outside The Office

If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be? 

Time travel, but only to the past! I would love to revisit some of my favorite days, experience childhood memories with fresh eyes, and spend a little more time with loved ones I don’t get to see as often anymore. 

What’s your go-to comfort food or guilty pleasure snack? 

My all-time favorite meal is chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and fried okra. It's definitely not an everyday kind of meal, so I've turned it into a birthday tradition and treat myself to it just once a year. That way, it's something I always look forward to, and it tastes even better when the day finally comes around!

What hobby or skill would you love to pick up if time weren’t an issue? 

Tennis! It seems like one of those hobbies you can enjoy through every stage of life. I love that it gets you outside, keeps you active, and gives you a chance to unplug from all the technology we're constantly surrounded by. It has actually been on my list for a while, so I think learning to play might just become my next New Year's resolution!

What’s a favorite memory that always makes you smile? 

I have two favorite memories, so it’s a bit of a tie! The frontrunner is when I got engaged this past March and then the day I adopted my dog, Rookie! Both were incredibly special, life-changing moments that I'll always cherish. 

‍Rapid-Fire Fun

• Sweet or savory? Both! There is no way I could ever choose between the two.
• Early bird or night owl? Early bird 
• Favorite childhood TV show or movie? The Parent Trap (Lindsay Lohan version, of course) 
• Last song you listened to? "August" by Taylor Swift, you can pretty much bank on my 2026 Spotify Wrapped being entirely Taylor-themed. 
• Beach, mountains, or city for a vacation? City! 

Team Shoutouts

‍"If I could describe Margaret in one word, it would be sunshine. The first time I met her, over a simple video call, her positivity radiated right through the screen. So it comes as no surprise that she was selected for July's 'Brains Behind Our Brand' Employee Spotlight. That same positivity shows up directly in her work: supporting, educating, and growing her existing clients, while also drawing new brands into Cognitiv. I'm lucky to work alongside Margaret and her positivity every day!" — Celine Schulte, Account Executive