Take 5 with Bryan Cain

Composed of a diverse array of faculty, staff and administrators, the Oakland University community is unique, creative, and dedicated. As part of a continuing effort to explore the various roles and lives of our Golden Grizzlies, the News @ OU website presents a new interview series. We invite you to share these stories and “Take 5” with OU.  

Bryan Cain is the director of Integrated Marketing for the University Communications and Marketing department. Bryan joined the Oakland University community this January, having previously provided marketing services for McLaren Medical Group and community outreach for Henry Ford Health System. Originally from Alpena, Bryan has spent the past ten years in the metro Detroit area, earning his undergraduate degree from Wayne State University and his Graduate Degrees from the University of Detroit Mercy. At Oakland, Bryan works with the core marketing team to effectively analyze the target market and develop strategies to promote the university. Bryan lives in one of Detroit's historic districts where he rehabilitates historic homes.

Oakland is a very accepting and dynamic place to be. It seems to be an ever-changing environment that is always exciting for the students, staff, and the community members that we serve. I teach communication theory at various institutions and it made me realize that the world of academics is where I’d like my career path to lead. At Oakland, I am able to combine my passion for marketing and strategy with a love for academics.

I spend a lot of time in northern Michigan, where much of my family still lives. I am also a Detroiter and amateur photographer, and like to explore Detroit’s abandoned buildings and warehouses in Corktown and Woodbridge. Recently I was climbing around in elevator shafts at the old Packard Plant and took some really impressive shots. 

I am an avid reader and you will never find me without my Kindle. I’m also a proud solo vacationer, and last August I was in Arizona for a book signing and speaking event for two of my favorite authors, Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. They write mystery and crime novels that mostly take place in New York City; where you'll find me monthly. Soon, I’m planning a solo vacation to the city so I can tour the landmarks from the books.

In order to be successful from a marketing standpoint, we need to capitalize on the money that has been invested in the OU brand since 1957. By unifying schools, colleges, and departments into a single brand, look, or logo, we provide a consistent message which resonates with the target markets of the university. It will make us all more successful and effective, and make good on the time and investment UCM has put into our brand message. With a standardized message, the community, potential students, and influencers will recognize OU as the premier higher education institution.

Every organization has to keep up with trends in order to effectively communicate with their target market. For example, it is no longer as effective to advertise our services in print media because our target audience tends to spend very little time focusing on that communication channel. We have to recognize this, and put our efforts in strategic areas such as digital mediums and social media platforms so we can offer a focused and dynamic message in a glance. We have to be strategic in everything we do along with stay current in target market trends.