River City Six – Tracy Koeneke

Meet Tracy Koeneke, media buyer for Eleven Twenty-Three.

Tell us a little about your business.

We are an advertising agency that prides ourselves on weaving together media and creative for effective campaigns.

How did you get started in the business?

I started my career in college selling newspaper space. I then became a media buying assistant at a marketing and communication firm in Omaha. I am, by nature, a very curious person. I constantly find myself researching and trying to understand as much as I can. Over the course of my career, I’ve bought almost anything you can think of—from TV, radio, print, digital, and social to elaborate out-of-home executions like skywriting. All of these opportunities have allowed me to work with a variety of clients on a global, national, regional, and local scale. I’m thankful for the chance I’ve had to hone in on my craft and work with powerhouse media networks as well as up and coming startups.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

Navigating through all of the possible options available. When I started in media buying, there were only a handful of companies that had the capabilities to get in front of customers. In 2011, there were around 150 marketing technology outlets. As of 2019, there were over 7,000 marketing technology opportunities all vying for a chance to help brands succeed. In the early 2000s, it was relatively easy to navigate and keep up-to-date with trends. Now, trends change in a matter of hours, sometimes minutes.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

Being a part of a client’s success. This also includes invitations to beta test software and a number of new opportunities for clients that historically have been reserved for those with larger budgets. It’s always satisfying to be able to bring these solutions to clients.

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband and I have a daughter who is in med school and four fur kids.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

Spending time outside, which often includes going to the lake or on hikes with the dogs.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?

Every test I’ve ever taken says I’m analytical, but I actually can draw more than just stick figures.

Who inspires you?

My dad instilled the never give up mentality I have.

What is your favorite quote?

“Don’t tell me sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.” – Paul Brandt

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?

Knowledgeable.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?

Something environmental like repairing the ozone layer or being able to actually recycle and reuse all of the pollutants that are just being dumped.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?

Marine biology.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

I’ve had the opportunity to work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation through marketing and volunteering efforts. It’s gratifying to see these dreams of kids come true. I’m also passionate about the work that dog rescues do because I love dogs and am always glad to be able to support organizations that care for their well-being.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

The Beanery.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

(402) 593-1123; tracy@11twentythree.com; www.11twentythree.com.