How I Got Here: Michael Cummings

Michael Cummings Associations Now March/April 2016 Issue

He may be the principal of Deco by Tate/Cumming today, but it was 20-plus years ago as a babysitter that Michael Cummings first uncovered his unique selling point and discovered marketing.

Michael Cummings
Principal, Deco by Tate/Cummings
New York City

Michael Cummings first discovered marketing in high school when he realized that being the only male babysitter in town was his unique selling point. And today, as the principal of Deco by Tate/Cummings, he helps associations stand out by creating design and copy for them. One life motto he's always stood behind: "Don't live in fear—you can do anything you set your mind to." Here are some highlights from his career journey.

Ask questions. Listen. Learn about people.—Michael Cummings, Deco by Tate/Cummings

A Working History

1982–1985 Babysitter

1988–1994 Public relations manager at Barneys

1994–1996 Cofounder of the Internet Resource Alliance

2001–2006 Principal of Brand Touch

2006–2014 Vice President, Marketing and Business Development, at Kellen Company

2014– Principal of Deco by Tate/Cummings