Thought leader spotlight: Nicole Bensi
Behind the data are our world-class thought leaders. Over the next few months, we will be introducing you to the people responsible for Comperemedia’s industry expertise.
Nicole Bensi is Director of Competitive Intelligence at Comperemedia, responsible for leading a team of analysts that develop custom reports across financial services to provide omnichannel analysis and competitive insight.
Q: What topics do you specialize in?
A: I specialize in identifying and analyzing marketing trends within credit cards, small businesses, and lending. By understanding key players, market shifts, and consumer drivers, my team and I deliver compelling, actionable reports.
Q: How did you get to where you are now?
A: I’ve always had a passion for marketing and consumer behavior. I enjoy seeing how brands communicate with consumers, where they’re doing it, and ultimately how it makes a consumer react. For me, it’s about being curious. You always have to be asking, why. Why is that company shifting? Why is that demographic not interested? Why isn’t that competitor taking advantage? When you go a level deeper or imagine the decisions leading up to an action, you can tell a better story.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone in your industry, who would it be and why?
A: Jane Fraser, CEO of Citigroup Latin America, is a fascinating thinker who is also one of the few women holding a leadership role within financial services. She’s smart, intuitive, and admits she’s always still learning. American Banker calls her the “Number 1 Woman to Watch.”
Q: Tell us about a brand campaign or shift in strategy that has recently caught your eye?
A: Fintechs are always a favorite to follow, they tend to be a little more daring and creative with their work. Petal ran a video that depicted a frenzied, slightly post-apocalyptic world where mindless buying went unchecked. Petal stepped in as the antidote with its savings product–and also debuted a new tagline. It felt like a unique approach on how they could stand out from other players within the fintech space.
Q: What is your favorite part about your job?
A: The people. Comperemedia has some of the smartest analysts and leaders I’ve ever met in my career. The team is sharp, insightful and always brings a fresh perspective. Having people around me that are constantly driving for the highest level of success keeps me motivated.
Q: Last but not least- tell a fun fact about yourself.
A: I have two degrees in creative writing and countless drafts of my debut novel. If anyone knows a book agent, send them my way!
