New Blend executive grew from project manager into C-suite

April 23, 2019

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Jessica Hutchinson, partner and chief operating officer of Blend Interactive.

Name: Jessica Hutchinson

Age: 38

Hometown: Clark

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

My final spring semester of college at SDSU — Go, Jacks! — required a full-time internship. I took one in Sioux Falls at a marketing agency and ended up getting hired on full-time after graduation.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

There are so many reasons! Sioux Falls is a great place to raise a family. My husband and I have built so many close friendships, and we live in an awesome neighborhood. The education opportunities are great too. Both of my kids attend the Spanish immersion program at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary, which has been wonderful. We love that there are so many things to do in the community, and it’s in proximity to my family that lives just a few hours away. I also love what I do and working at Blend! I’ve had so many opportunities to grow, both personally and professionally.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love that we are always learning something new at Blend. No day is ever the same. I also have the privilege of working and collaborating with a great group of people.

How did you get connected to your industry?

Ha, by accident! The agency that I worked at contracted out a web development project to Blend. I managed the project from the agency side and worked directly with Blend. I enjoyed their team and kept in touch with the founders over the years. When they decided to hire a project manager, I came on board. Ten years ago, I joined the team with no clue what I was getting myself into!

Your career has included multiple roles within the same business, leading to a spot in the C-suite. What advice would you give to others hoping to follow a similar path?

Be decisive — sometimes making a decision is more important than the decision itself. Don’t be afraid to fail, but learn from your mistakes. Ask questions, and admit when you don’t have the answer. Learn to delegate, and have trust in your team.

Describe Blend Interactive in three words.

Progressive, passionate, authentic.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I love working with kids. Each year, I prioritize participating in at least one program within the community, either teaching Junior Achievement classes, Sunday school or coaching Girls on the Run.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Nordstrom — they have the best shoe and handbag collection!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself in Sioux Falls continuing to grow within my role as chief operating officer while helping to achieve Blend’s company goals.

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New Blend executive grew from project manager into C-suite

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Jessica Hutchinson, partner and chief operating officer of Blend Interactive.

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