Meet Our People

Suzy's view on living in the Twin Cities
Twin Cities living is truly cosmopolitan on a medium scale. The "Twin" cities offer a great juxtaposition of style-Minneapolis is fast-paced and trendy, while St. Paul is more laid-back and traditional. Given this diversity, you can find a community for basically any kind of lifestyle. One that is quite prominent, given our lakes and green space, is the large community of outdoor enthusiasts, including cyclists, runners, and other recreationalists. Overall, the Twin Cities are very health and environmental-conscious, which I really enjoy.

Suzy's background before SBD
My previous internships gave me the opportunity to "dabble" in disparate industries. Gaining the ability to get up-to-speed quickly in a completely new space has been vital here in SBD. SBD has furthered my ability in being adaptive to different industries and business models. This experience will make me more resourceful and creative as I enter a divisional marketing role.

Suzy's views on the culture of SBD
SBD is young, open, and collaborative. The environment fosters best practice and idea-sharing in project work and career development. We often work in project teams and collectively learn in development workshops and training courses. In addition, we participate in volunteer activities, play intramural sports, and often get together for happy hours and other social events.

Suzy's leadership opportunities in SBD
Within project work, I have gotten the opportunity to act as a team lead amongst my peers. Outside project work, I have interacted with prominent 3M leaders and taken on leadership roles on several councils, including coordinating volunteer activities, arranging outside and executive speakers, and developing continuing-education programs.

Suzy's project experience
Big Business: Health Care
Division: Drug Delivery Systems

The project involved assessing an adjacent market space for our Drug Delivery Systems division. I learned about the complex nature of the pharmaceutical industry, including the intricacies of the value chain and the incredible impact of government health policy and drug regulation. By examining sales and market growth trends, my team recommended key segments of focus for our client's overall business strategy. My experience was further enhanced when our team was invited to offer our market knowledge in an advanced market simulation with my client's global business team.

Crystal's views on Austin
Austin has been a really good city for me and my husband. It is very laid back with a great cost of living. I like the low-key mentality of the people here. It's a very educated city with a big focus on technology. It is also centrally located in Texas which makes it easy to attend events in Dallas and Houston (3 hours away) and San Antonio (1 hour away). Being so close to so many major cities means there is always something going on. Plus you can't beat the weather.

Crystal's experience as an intern at 3M
The best part about interning at 3M was being exposed to so many different businesses in a short period of time. SBD's internship is unique in that you are included in a large intern class and are encouraged to share your project work and experiences with your fellow colleagues. For a person interested in marketing, this is a dream because in one summer, you get to see some of the major differences between business and consumer marketing, strategic and tactical marketing, marketing communications, business planning, and very technical marketing. It was a great way to learn more about my interests and potential career paths.

Crystal's background as a chemical engineer
I have a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and my previous career was spent transitioning from various jobs in process engineering, environmental, health and safely, research and development, and technical service. This diverse background helped prepare me to work with teams that have different cultures, which is the case with many of the divisions in 3M. For example, working in the medical industry is very different than in the electrical industry or in consumer. The speed to market is different, as are the challenges that marketers face trying to develop and launch products. My background helped me build key skills in communications, persuasion, problem solving, and research that I think helped prepared me for tackling various problems and industries at the same time. The analytical nature of my previous experience also helped me to quickly assess and scope problems and communicate a plan of actions for reaching a desirable conclusion for my clients.

Crystal's views on the culture of SBD
SBD is a very collaborative, fast-paced culture. The individuals who do well here are good communicators who enjoy problem solving. It is also an environment for learning since analysts utilize the talents and ideas of their colleagues to brainstorm, improve their approaches, or analyze situations that are not familiar to them. The benefit of this culture is that you have the support you need to do your job really well, and the autonomy of a project manager to set the pace and tone for your work and customize it based on your own talents and interests.

Crystal's leadership opportunities in SBD
While in SBD I have had the opportunity to supervise an intern, a first year analyst, and an associate, which has really helped me to learn how to manage my own day-to-day tasks while helping to develop and mentor someone else in their career. During my project work, I have also been able to lead teams which have consisted of marketing, technical, and sales personnel. This has enabled me to improve how I motivate, persuade, and encourage participation with no direct authority.

In addition, SBD has made it possible for me to demonstrate my visionary and planning skills to key stakeholders across the business. I have also had the chance to lead recruiting and philanthropic activities for our group. This has afforded me additional project management opportunities and visibility with members of management here at 3M.

Crystal's project experience
Big Business: Electro and Communications (E&CB)
Division: Electrical Markets Division (EMD)

I worked on a project for EMD's utility market. The team had identified a product developed in Mexico and Brazil that was growing successfully. They needed to estimate the global size of the opportunity for this product, understand the requirements to launch the product and identify the barriers to entry in other countries.

This was a great experience because I was able to work with 3M subsidiaries around the globe to educate them on the product's capabilities, interview them on potential adoption rates in their countries, and develop a survey for them to conduct with their customers. This helped determine where the best targets were located and what would be required service them.

I learned a lot about trying to manage a global project from the US and gain support from our international teams. I also learned about the challenges of launching products globally and the difficulties of trying to replicate a product in countries with very different technical and sales requirements. My recommendations from this project resulted in another project to pursue more information on opportunities that were identified during the original customer needs study.

Kristin's views on the Twin Cities
I usually tell people that I'm pleasantly surprised with the Twin Cities. It has the "outdoorsiness" of Colorado, and lots of opportunities to go to the theater, museums and good restaurants. People are very active, so you can always find someone to go on a run with or try something new.

Kristin's experience as an intern at 3M
From a work perspective, your summer experience really reflects your full-time experience. You are assigned projects that are important to the divisions and the company's targets and gain exposure to all levels of management.

From a social perspective, the program facilitates getting to know your classmates. Because you are judged solely on your work, the environment is not competitive and you can help each other brainstorm solutions and work together. Also, you live with everyone in the same building, which makes it fun to explore the city together.

Kristin's background in advertising and non-profit
I came from advertising and non-profit so I'm used to working with many different people who each have their own priorities. I've been able to use my client management skills to come in to a new team, get up to speed quickly and help work towards a solution.

Kristin's leadership opportunities in SBD
To me, one of the most important activities that SBD does is quarterly Community Service projects. When I was considering where to work, I wanted a place that values work-life balance. Many places said they valued it, but 3M was one of the few places that actually did.

Kristin's project experience
Big Business: Industrial & Transportation
Division: Personal Care

Most people say, "3M makes cosmetics?" Yes, that was my first reaction, too. 3M's Personal Care Division has a small cosmetics supply business. They wanted to know if they should try to grow the business and if so how. This basically meant building the business plan. I was able to work with a diverse team of individuals to explore if this was a growth opportunity for the company. It was great to get involved with the team in the building the business case from all aspects - R&D, customer needs, internal capabilities.

Dan's views on the Twin Cities
The Twin Cities are a great place to live. Lakes, trails, parks and rivers make it one of the most outdoorsy places I've lived, especially in the beautiful summers. It also has great restaurants, lots of history and culture, great schools, and good entertainment options. It's also dog-friendly!

Dan's internship experience at 3M
I had a fantastic experience as an intern in SBD. Living downtown with the rest of the interns really gave us the opportunity to bond and to learn our way around the Twin Cities. It's a very social atmosphere, which made for a very positive experience.

Dan's background in sales
In this position you meet several people in the divisions who have sales experience. My sales background has really helped me interface with clients who started as sales reps and are now marketers. My understanding of sales also helps me know what is going on out in the field as I look to make recommendations that carry impact for my client.

Dan's views on the culture of SBD
The culture of our group can be described as young, fun and team-oriented. It's a great thing to be able to move to a new state and instantly have a network of 25 friends that have so much in common with you.

Dan's leadership opportunities in SBD
I have the ability to pursue as many leadership opportunities as I can handle! The opportunities are everywhere - from recruiting leads to carving out special projects to task force leadership, the opportunities are readily available.

Dan's project experience
Big Business: Industrial and Transportation Business (I&TB)
Division: Automotive Division (AD)

We spent several months thinking outside the "Automotive box" in order to identify possible M&A candidates that could enable 3M to expand its portfolio into new businesses and add synergies to existing lines. Our analysis looked at companies from a strategic perspective. In the end, we recommended pursuing several M&A targets that play in emerging markets across the globe.

Mike's views on the Twin Cities
The Twin Cities is a good mix of big city amenities like great restaurants, bars, sporting events, and shows, with the neighborhood feel of a small town. Housing within both of the cities is affordable, so you don't have to live in a studio apartment to live in the city. I also like to run and walk my dogs outside, and there are hundreds of routes along the rivers and lakes I can go to keep things interesting.

Mike's background in the US Marine Corps
Being a platoon commander in the infantry requires keeping a cool head and making quick decisions in the most challenging situations possible. You also must manage a hodgepodge of people and projects that sometimes overlap and require doing many things at once. While things are much more relaxed here, the skills I've learned have helped with my project work immensely, allowing me to keep an objective perspective on recommendations and not get overwhelmed with multiple projects and tight deadlines.

Mike's view on the culture of SBD
SBD is extremely similar to the culture of business school where likeminded people from different backgrounds move to a new place and work on projects, some individual and some in teams. Because of this environment, people collaborate and learn from each other to make projects better. The group also develops strong social ties because most of us are new to the area and are close in life-stages to each other.

Mike's leadership opportunities in SBD
In my first six months I have managed three associates on separate projects. I am also co-leading our recruiting efforts for the next year's class of analysts. It takes no time before you are able to step-in and add value to the team.

Mike's project experience
Big Business: Industrial and Transportation Business (I&TB)
Division: Industrial Adhesives and Tapes Division (IATD)

My project was to develop and refine the value proposition for a new product launch in our Marine & Specialty Vehicles business. I got to travel to Miami Beach and interview boat builders about what causes problems in the boat building process and how our potential product could help productivity and boat appearance. I learned a great deal about 3M's New Product Introduction process, which is based on Six Sigma, and got to spend time with 3M customers at the beach!

Becky's perspective on the Twin Cities
The area is a beautiful environment with plenty of urban sophistication, which combine to make the Twin Cities unique. In a nutshell, I like it! There is something for everyone here - theatre, shopping, sports, and nature.

Becky's background as an engineer
As an engineer you learn how to structure thoughts and breakdown problems. These skills have helped me the most. They translate directly into what we do on projects as we try to help our clients breakdown problems and structure solutions.

Becky's view on the culture of SBD
I find the culture of SBD to be very similar to my MBA experience. It is a very collaborative, team-oriented and fun environment.

Please describe the most interesting project you have worked on in SBD.
Big Business: Corporate
Division: Strategy

With its strong international presence and focus on technology development, 3M must be able to uncover cutting edge technology opportunities in the global environment. My first project in SBD focused on answering the question, where are current innovation platforms across the globe and what will the global environment look like in 2012? This project really exposed me to "big picture" 3M and allowed me to test my strategic thinking skills.

Kelly's views on the Twin Cities
The Twin Cities are an amazing place to work and live. There is always something to do and explore in Minneapolis and St. Paul: lakes, sports venues, Mall of America, performing arts, and museums. It is also very easy to get around the metro area. The short commute gives me more time to enjoy life after work. Friendly Minnesotans make the city even more charming.

Kelly's experience as an intern at 3M
I worked as a marketing intern with Abrasives System Division (ASD) at 3M for one year. The internship with 3M provided me the opportunity for personal and professional growth. I was given a variety of projects including a market assessment and sales tool development. The ASD team was highly engaged in all of the internship projects; people at ASD dedicated their time and provided great resources for the interns. I was able to work cross-functionally with marketing, sales, and technical services to develop marketing strategy and tactics for ASD. The internship also gave me an in-depth look at 3M's close-knit and diversified corporate culture. People at 3M are always open to new perspectives and encourage one another to share their views.

Kelly's experience as a consultant
SBD projects require strong analytical skills and business knowledge. My experience with KPMG has provided me with a solid foundation of performing market research and industry analysis on SBD projects. I have been able to leverage my work experience to effectively conduct industry analyses on 3M businesses.

In addition to my analytical background, I have been able to contribute much to SBD by bringing unique international business perspectives, which I acquired while working in Taiwan.

Kelly's view on the culture of SBD
The culture of SBD is both exciting and collaborative. Analysts are able to learn from one another because of the diverse business backgrounds that each brings to SBD. Not only is the SBD environment conducive to learning, but it has also become a place where analysts converse and solve problems cooperatively.

Individual analysts are able to develop skills that will further build up their career at 3M. Working closely with one another and networking with senior mentors is also a common practice. The vast amounts of projects also allow each analyst to properly manage his or her own development and chart his or her own career path.

Kelly's leadership opportunities
SBD trainings and educational programs have enhanced my leadership capabilities. For example, I worked closely with an SBD senior analyst to organize a "Leading Global Teams" workshop for the SBD Development Task Force which provided me an opportunity to learn about planning and organizing activities for the SBD group. I believe this SBD training program will help prepare myself and other analysts to become effective leaders in a global business environment.

Kelly's project experience
Big Business: Health Care
Division: Medical

I worked with another SBD analyst on a Sales Model Development project with 3M Medical for three months. The project objective was to evaluate 3M's market potential in the medical field and to provide recommendations on the current 3M sales structure to maximize business opportunities. By partnering with 3M Medical, we were able to create a sales model by incorporating current medical industry trends along with regional market differences to predict 3M's business opportunities. This model presented a great view of the growth of 3M's medical businesses across different product lines. We were very pleased with our effort in making the model and were impressed to find out that we had contributed to the decision making process of 3M Medical.

Ryan's views on the Twin Cities
After living in North Dakota, Indiana, New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, and California, as well as working in many other states, I can say that the Twin Cities offers a quality of life that is nearly impossible to match. The metro area is an amalgamation of top repertory theater and museums, beautiful parks and lakes, four major professional sports teams, a top-notch education system, countless restaurants, and a vibrant business community. I feel that it is truly one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.

What did you enjoy most about the internship at 3M?
As an intern I was able to put my academic learning in action. I completed three projects and gained insight into vastly different industries. In each project, I learned about the unique challenges, customers, products, and revenue models that made the business and 3M successful. This variety gave me exposure to a wide range of issues and challenged me to convert my academic skills into tangible solutions with results.

Ryan's SBD summer intern project
Big Business: Health Care
Division: 3M ESPE (Dental Division)

My favorite intern project was with 3M ESPE's digital dentistry business, an industry that was entirely foreign to me. To get up to speed, I witnessed a live crown-procedure and met with in-house experts who took the time to educate our team. We conducted primary research with patients, doctors, labs, and milling centers to identify how 3M's products were valued relative to the competition. We used several tools to analyze the data and devised a pricing strategy which we presented to the ESPE management team at their annual strategic planning meeting. Our recommendations are now being implemented and it was satisfying to see our work make a direct impact.

Ryan's decision to join 3M full-time
The decision to come back to 3M was one that I took very seriously. In the end, however, it was an easy one. I feel that SBD will provide me with an unparalleled opportunity to gain the skills, experience, and knowledge that will best prepare me to achieve my future career goals. My colleagues are incredibly dynamic and collaborative, providing me the opportunity to build upon my MBA education and learn from others in a way that many companies can't match. By joining the SBD group, I can make a real impact to 3M's bottom line and have significant responsibilities that many first-time MBA positions don't afford.

Dan's current position
I am part of an emerging business within the dental products division. We are in "business building mode" — now a 4-year old business with lots of potential where we are transitioning from just high revenue growth to a sustainable profitable entity.

Dan's view on how SBD prepared him for his current role
SBD really gave me a great mix of big-picture, general-management, strategic thinking and day-to-day tactical sales and marketing skills. It also helped give me comfort with tools and frameworks that I use in my job every day (e.g. financial tools, business and marketing planning frameworks, market research tools, pricing tools, presentation tools).

How Dan got his job in 3M ESPE
For my last SBD project, I was assigned to work with McKinsey Consulting to help write the Health Care Business Strategic Plan. My assignment was to work with the Dental Products and Orthodontics Products divisions. There were 3 great opportunities on that project that led to my current job:

1. I was able to see the forward-looking strategic plan that showed which businesses would be receiving significant investment (digital dentistry was one of those growth opportunities).
2. I was able to work closely with the Executive Management team in both Dental and Ortho divisions. Those contacts were important in building trust with them and their direct reports (a.k.a. the people hiring me for my next job).
3. I was able to get a day-to-day feel for the people and the culture of the division. The people and personalities of those I work with are some of the most important decision factors for me and this project experience proved that these are people I could spend days locked up in a room with.

Dan's views on working at 3M
What I love about 3M is that you are given lots of responsibility early in your career. The job titles may not sound as exciting at 3M as some other companies that hire MBAs, but I would argue that the breadth and depth of business responsibility and experience you gain at 3M blows away some of the assignments other MBAs receive. The other part is the people - I don't think you will find more educated, humble, and well-balanced people anywhere than what you will find at 3M.

• New Product Marketer
• Global Business Team Leader for Acute Care Products - cross functional leader for a sizable business
• Six Sigma Director for 3M's Health Care Business - Member of Leadership Team that launched Six Sigma at 3M
• Business Director for 3M Personal Care Division - Based in Germany for 4 years, Responsible for Business Operations in Europe, Middle East & Africa

David's views on the SBD experience
SBD provides an excellent entry point into 3M, as you have the opportunity to learn about 3M, strengthen your skills and deliver value to the businesses through projects. An SBD analyst has the opportunity to conduct a variety of projects in a wide variety of businesses, thereby achieving an excellent overview of 3M at the beginning of their career. SBD has a dynamic atmosphere, as you may work on projects ranging from new product projects in Optical Systems to 3M Strategic Planning to optimizing growth projects in Industrial or Consumer, just to name a few. SBD provided a strong foundation of learning that I still draw on today, and it also helped me build a network of colleagues from whom I continue to learn.

David's views on working at 3M
3M is a very strong, broad based company, with 30+ Business Units that have presence in many industries. 3M is focused on delivering innovative solutions to the market, with employees that really have passion for new ideas. 3M is truly a global company with over 60% its revenues coming from business outside the US. In addition, it's possible to have careers in many different industries without ever leaving 3M. If you're stimulated by new technology, growth markets, good work life balance, a learning environment, a diversified technology company, then I encourage you to have a look at 3M.