Each month, industry news media organization XBIZ spotlights the career accomplishments and outstanding contributions of Women in Adult. WIA profiles offer an intimate look at the professional lives of the industry's most influential female executives.
This month we are happy to feature Amanda Gross, marketing and sales director for Epoch Systems based in Marina del Rey, Calif.
I must say that being a woman in the adult industry poses far fewer challenges
What is your role and responsibility at Epoch Systems?
I have been lucky enough to be the director of sales and marketing at Epoch Systems for over a year now. This includes putting together our events and displays at industry shows, communicating with advertisers and potential business partners, in addition to dayto- day relations with our clients. Keep in mind that all of this is done with the support of the terrific staff here and almost everything is completed with team effort.
Give us a typical Monday at your desk?
Although cliche, the truth is that there is no such thing as a typical Monday here at Epoch. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to our door. If pressed for a unique Monday trait, I would have to say that Monday tends to be the peak for client calls, although it is also filled with project management and coordination, new rollouts and future product planning.
What do you think is your greatest challenge or asset being a woman in the adult industry?
In comparison to experiences in other industries, I must say that being a woman in the adult industry poses far fewer challenges. Contrary to popular belief, the adult industry has always shown me a level of respect and courtesy that hasn't been matched in other business markets.
What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
Relaxation and time to oneself is key. Oftentimes we find ourselves deeply entrenched in our work only later to notice that we have been working 15-16-hour days. Knowing that it is time to step back and take some time for myself, and then doing it, is the key to managing a maintainable life.
What advice would you give other women who want to enter your field?
Stay on top of technology. Ours is a very technological business and without that edge, you may find yourself lost in the crowd. Being able to keep up with what is available, what is possible and what can be integrated into intra-company and inter-company programs can be the key to creating a very smooth running and cooperative environment.
