Jepson is now the vice president of marketing for Michigan-based Rx Optical; an optical care company that was founded in Kalamazoo and has been expanding for over 60 years. Jepson started as an intern for the company during his last two semesters at Western and was hired as a client services representative after graduation.
As vice president, Jepson has a long list of tasks that cover a broad spectrum. Jepson is responsible for all marketing and advertising; including their website, social media, sponsorships, print media, online marketing, business development, and marketing strategy. He is also in charge of their business-to-business vision care programs that serve as a link to employer vision insurance and prescription safety glasses programs. Jepson serves as the Secretary on their Board of Directors.
“I enjoy being able to analyze various market conditions and developing solutions to communicate our message most effectively to our clients and patients,” Jepson said. “Solving problems and monitoring progress is very satisfying.”
Rx Optical is one of the largest privately held optical companies in the U.S., and Jepson has aided in the company growing from 13 to 51 offices during his tenure.
During his time at the University, Jepson credits the faculty of the Haworth College of Business as what he appreciated the most. Jepson commented on how they engaged their students on a regular basis and they were always available to answer questions. The class sizes were small enough to create a good interaction in groups and allowed for the introduction to many other like-minded students, Jepson said.
“I think the Haworth College of Business is a tremendous resource here in Kalamazoo,” Jepson said. “I have hired three WMU grads in the last few years each of whom does excellent work for us. I am proud to be a graduate from WMU.”
Posted by Stan Sulewski