Capitol Communicator is running a series featuring profiles of communicators in the mid-Atlantic. In this “up close and personal” profile, we feature Scott Laughlin. Photography for the “up close and personal” series is by Cade Martin; wardrobe styling by Pascale Lemaire for THE Artist Agency; and hair and makeup by Patti D Nelson and Janice Kinigopoulos for THE Artist Agency.
Scott, please provide us a short bio.
I currently co-own LMO Advertising, an independent full-service communications firm, where I work with clients on branding and demand creation. I started my career at International Data Group (IDG) where I served in various positions, capping my early career with the launch of The Web, a magazine about the then-emerging Internet. Following IDG, I joined LinkExchange, the Internet’s first advertising network which was acquired by Microsoft in 1998. At Microsoft, I worked as a Group Program Manager overseeing the creation of web-delivered applications before returning to IDG as a Partner in their venture capital group, IDG Ventures.
My venture activities also include technology transfer and education. In 2005, I was the inaugural Director of the University of Maryland’s VentureAccelerator, a program that spins out companies based on University IP. At UMD, I serve as a Senior Lecturer in Entrepreneurship at the Engineering School and a consultant to the Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute (MTECH). I also helped found and build Zymetis, an industrial biotechnology company focused on sustainable chemicals and fuels which was acquired in 2011.
Are you involved in any other organizations?
Yes, I’m a venture partner with Ardent Capital and I’m on the Board of Directors of FVCbank.
What are the things you are most proud of?
My successful marriage and our children.
What professional advice do you have for others?
Choose your job opportunities not by salary, but rather by the people with whom you get to work. Having a great mentor and successful co-workers will do more for your career long-term than a raise today.
What advice do you have on what’s appropriate attire for your organization?
Chose items that are comfortable, functional, and durable, yet sharp. Our folks have to be ready for anything at a moment’s notice. Wearing clothes that you can dress up or tone down, while still being able to run a mile or two means you’re always ready to both perform and make a positive impression.
Where do you buy most of the clothes you wear to the office?
Triple Aught Design. TAD has perfected tactical couture!
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