Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Banks.
Hi Erica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey really began in 2002, when I had the opportunity to work with one of Ford Motor Company’s marketing agencies. That experience opened the door to a world of brand storytelling and event execution on a major scale. I worked on everything from African-American marketing initiatives to large-scale productions like the Grand Prix in Toronto and corporate events for Ford’s Global Employee Network. Those early experiences taught me how to create campaigns that not only looked good, but resonated with people — how to connect culture, community, and corporate strategy in a meaningful way.
From there, I transitioned into higher education marketing with one of Wayne County Community College District’s agencies. In that role, I worked closely with the Chancellor’s Office to develop and implement campaigns focused on increasing student enrollment, access, and awareness. That time reinforced my belief that marketing is about more than selling — it’s about storytelling with purpose and driving impact.
In 2009, my mother, Sharon Banks, founded Bankable Marketing Strategies — a woman-owned boutique agency rooted in Detroit. A year later, in 2010, we discussed me coming on board full-time. From a career standpoint, it was the natural next step. I saw an opportunity to build something legacy-driven, to merge corporate discipline with community passion. Fifteen years later, I’m proud to say that Bankable Marketing Strategies has grown into a dynamic, full-service marketing and public relations agency.
We specialize in marketing communications, public relations, brand development, and crisis management — and we’ve had the privilege of serving a diverse portfolio of clients across education, government, nonprofit, and entertainment sectors. Every project we take on is rooted in creativity, authenticity, and impact. At its core, BMS is more than a marketing firm — it’s a family legacy and a platform to amplify stories that matter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road — but I wouldn’t call it a struggle as much as a constant evolution. The marketing industry is one of the most fast-paced, ever-changing spaces there is. What worked five years ago may not connect today, and what’s trending today might be irrelevant next month. You really have to stay ahead of the curve, constantly learning, adapting, and understanding the shifts in technology, consumer behavior, and culture. There’s no exact science to marketing — it’s equal parts strategy, storytelling, and intuition. The real art lies in knowing how to blend creativity with analytics, authenticity with impact.
Running a small business adds another layer of challenge. There are always growing pains — from staffing and scaling, to managing client expectations, to ensuring sustainability while staying true to your mission and values. You wear a lot of hats, and you have to be both creative and operationally sound at the same time. But every experience, every lesson, has made me a stronger leader and more intentional about how I show up for my clients and my team.
After over 20 years in this business and 15 with Bankable, now serving as Managing Partner of Bankable, I can say it’s all been worth it. The industry keeps you on your toes, but that’s what I love about it. It’s ever-evolving, just like the people and communities we serve — and that constant change is what keeps me inspired and passionate about what I do. Every pivot, late night, and lesson learned has shaped both who I am as a leader and what our agency has become—a testament to passion, persistence, and purpose.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Bankable Marketing Strategies is a full-service marketing and public relations agency rooted in Detroit, built on the belief that every brand has a story worth telling — it just needs the right strategy, the right audience, and the right execution to make it unforgettable.
We specialize in brand storytelling, public relations, event marketing, media buying, and community engagement, with a portfolio that spans arts and culture, entertainment, small business, and public sector campaigns. Our work has supported major Detroit landmarks like The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, the Detroit Jazz Festival, and The Henry Ford Museum, government entity, such as the Wayne County Treasurer office, and the Detroit Wayne joint building authority, which manages the Coleman A Young Municipal Center, as well as emerging entrepreneurs and purpose-driven brands such as Skyn Studio Beauty and Pizza Cat Max that are shaping the city’s creative economy.
What sets Bankable apart is our ability to blend corporate-level strategy with community-level authenticity. We don’t just market brands — we build movements. We understand the pulse of Detroit, the power of culture, and how to create campaigns that connect emotionally and drive measurable results. Whether it’s a multimillion-dollar media buy, a grassroots outreach initiative, or a viral digital moment, we approach every project with the same level of creativity, care, and accountability.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of being a woman-owned, Detroit-born agency that’s stayed true to its values: storytelling with purpose, representation that matters, and measurable impact. We’ve built a reputation for not just making our clients visible — but making them valuable.
At the end of the day, I want readers to know is that Bankable Marketing Strategies is more than an agency — we’re a partner in growth, in legacy, and in the stories that move communities forward.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was funny, witty, and outgoing — and honestly, not much has changed! I was always the one organizing something, and I still am, talking to everyone, and finding creative ways to tell a story or make people laugh. Looking back, that curiosity and natural ability to connect with people is probably what led me into marketing and PR.
I’ve always had an appreciation for the arts, travel, entertainment, documentaries, health and beauty, fitness, and education — all the things that make life dynamic and inspiring. Those interests give me a well-rounded perspective and keep me in tune with the diverse clients we serve. I genuinely enjoy learning about what they do and finding meaningful ways to bring their stories to life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bankablemktg.com
- Instagram: thatprgirl_e
- Facebook: Bankable Marketing Strategies
- LinkedIn: Bankable Marketing Strategies
