Abbott Ikeler

Graduate Program Director for Integrated Marketing Communication and Executive-in-Residence

A lucrative and exciting offer to work as an international copywriter for Wang lured Bott Ikeler away from his first career as an English professor and into the business world. His time at Wang opened the door to a 17-year career in marketing communication that included serving as the Public Relations and Advertising Manager for Asia Pacific at Digital and three years spent at Motorola. With his extensive experience working in advertising and public relations in more than 60 countries, Bott brings exceptional perspective to the IMC program.

Bott’s students have much to gain from his industry insight, but he says he is just as impressed by them. “Emerson students have confidence. They are willing to take risks. They are quick and eager to learn and very comfortable speaking in public.” According to Bott, the IMC program allows students to further develop these skills, which are imperative for success in the marketing communication field.

Having observed the evolution of marketing communication over the last several years, Bott recognizes the complexities of the industry. “Integrated marketing communication today is about more than just integrating public relations, advertising, and direct marketing campaigns. Businesses are much more attuned to what the customer wants and the importance of retaining existing customers, as well as obtaining new ones.”