My personal brand presentation for the Portfolio & Presentation 1: Personal Branding Course at Full Sail University

1. PERSONAL BRAND EXPLORATION
Nikki Smith
Project & Portfolio I: Week 1
November 26, 2023

2. Originally from Miami Beach, Florida, and having spent 7 impactful years in Atlanta,
Georgia, I've crafted a diverse career. As a paralegal specializing in corporate compliance,
I've thrived as an entrepreneur with LionFish Music & Entertainment Group.
My dynamic professional background spans contract management, negotiations, logistics,
and business administration. However, my heart beats to the rhythm of music. As a music
executive, recording artist, and producer, I'm dedicated to creating a haven for independent
creatives through LionFish Music & Entertainment Group, empowering People of Color,
particularly women, in the music industry.
Beyond music, my commitment to social impact unfolds in providing sanctuary for
homeless women and children through property ownership. LionFish Music &
Entertainment Group will offer housing for displaced families and veterans.
My unconventional journey reflects resilience and determination, marrying corporate
excellence with creative artistry. From past experiences to current ventures, my dedication
to making a positive impact drives my businesses, music, books, and creative projects. It's
all rooted in unwavering principles and steadfast dedication to my goals.
IDENTITY

3. PROFESSION
Potential Job Titles:
• Music Executive
• Music Counsel
• Artist Development Manager
BRAND ARCHETYPE - As a Ruler (Royalty) archetype, my approach
to these roles is characterized by a sense of honor, dignity, and
authority with an air of sophistication that is rooted in integrity. I see
myself as a leader in the industry, responsible for protecting and
guiding artists and projects to greatness.
Executive for Music & Entertainment Industry

4. MUSIC INDUSTRY LEADERS
TARGET AUDIENCE
MATTHEW KNOWLES
Outreach Plan:
• First, research his recent projects and achievements to
demonstrate my knowledge and passion for the industry.
• Next, reach out through a well-crafted LinkedIn In-mail,
expressing my desire to learn from his experiences.
• Last, follow up within 2 weeks with a brief, personalized LinkedIn
In-mail message and reference current posts and developments
he is working on to reflect and engage his interests.
CORPORATE CONSULTANT and ADVISOR at MUSIC
WORLD ENTERTAINMENT
JODY GERSON
Outreach Plan:
• First, research recent achievements and projects and
engage with her social media profiles, contributing insightful
comments on music trends and industry developments.
• After contact is established, craft a well-structured email,
expressing my admiration and desire to learn more about
her experiences and women’s empowerment initiatives.
• Last, follow up within 2 weeks with a brief, personalized
email and reference current music industry developments
related to my goals.
CHAIR & CEO at UNIVERSAL MUSIC PUBLISHING
GROUP
ETHIOPIA HABTEMARIAM
Outreach Plan:
• Actively participating in industry events and conferences
where she is likely to attend.
• If I've attended an industry event where Ethiopia was
present and had the chance to meet her, I will send a
follow-up email within a week.
• In the email, I will express gratitude for the opportunity to
meet her in person and briefly reiterate my aspirations and
commitment to the music industry.
Former CHAIRWOMAN & CEO at
MOTOWN

5. GOALS
Short Term:
• Within the first year after graduation, I will actively pursue and secure a position as a music executive or artist development manager in a reputable music
company. I will send out a minimum of 15 tailored job applications per month, attend industry networking events, and actively engage with industry
professionals on LinkedIn to increase my chances of landing a job within the first six months.
• I will release at least one music single and produce a music video to accompany it every month for six months and will promote this release through my
social media channels and aim to gain a minimum of 5,000 streams and 10,000 YouTube views within six months of the release date.
Mid Term: (6 mo. – 1 yr.)
• I aspire to establish my own independent record label, ”LionFish Music Group," focusing on supporting and promoting independent creatives in the music
industry. I will create a comprehensive business plan, secure funding, and build a roster of talented artists. My measurable goal is to have signed and
released music for at least five artists, generating a combined annual revenue of $1 million within this timeframe.
Long Term: (15 – 20 yrs.)
• Over the course of 15-20 years, my long-term goal is to expand my record label, LionFish Music Group into a global music empire, with a diverse roster of
artists and a strong presence in key music markets worldwide. I will achieve this by continuously signing and nurturing top talent, collaborating with
international artists, and diversifying revenue streams. My measurable objective is to have LionFish Music Group recognized as one of the top independent
record labels globally, with annual revenues exceeding $50 million
• I will launch a mentorship program aimed at providing guidance and support to aspiring music industry professionals, particularly women of color. I will set
up a structured program, offering mentorship to at least 10 mentees annually, with a measurable goal of helping them secure meaningful positions within the
industry.
• I aim to fulfill my commitment to helping homeless women and children by establishing multiple homeless shelters and community outreach programs. I will
have successfully set up a network of shelters, providing a safe haven for those in need. My measurable goal is to have positively impacted the lives of at l
least 1,000 homeless women and children annually through these programs.

6. SKILLS ANALYSIS
Notable Skills & Current Proficiencies:
Notable Skills REQUIRED in TRADE & Current Proficiencies:
Contract Negotiation and Drafting
SOFT
HARD
Novice / Adept / Expert
Project Management Novice / Adept / Expert
Emotional Intelligence Novice / Adept / Expert
Leadership Novice / Adept / Expert
Artist Relations
SOFT
HARD
Novice / Adept / Expert
Music Marketing Novice / Adept / Expert
Creativity Novice / Adept / Expert
Collaboration Novice / Adept / Expert

7. As a dedicated music executive, I promise to deliver
unparalleled support and guidance to artists, helping
them navigate the complexities of the music industry,
find their unique voice, and achieve their fullest creative
and professional potential.
PROMISE

8. CREDENTIALS
Work Experience:
• Sr. Consultant, (Deloitte Consulting) (5 Months)
• Contract Manager, (Tennessee State
University) (1.2 Years)
• Marketing Manager (Gilson Software) (2 Years)
• Sr. Paralegal (Burger King Corp.) (1 Year)
• Publicist (Linda Demaio PR) (1 Year)
• Music Executive (LionFish Music Group) (7
Years)
Education:
• Music Production, Certificate, Full Sail
University
• Music Business Program, B.S., Full Sail University (2025)
Volunteer Roles:
• Girlfriends 4 Girlfriends (Domestic Violence)
• The Caring Place (Homeless Women)
• Miami rescue Mission (Homeless Families)

9. COMPETITION
India Dorsey Gaston,
Ph.D. (Indi Tyton)
Industry Experience:
• CEO
• Producer
• Sr. Consultant
• Marketing Specialize
Education:
• M.S., Entertainment Business, Full Sail University
• PhD, Business Psychology, The Chicago School
• M.S. HPER – Health, Middle Tennessee State University
• M.A., Psychology, Fisk University
• B.A. Psychology
Leadership Experience:
• CEO
• Sr. Consultant
Skills and Proficiencies:
• Entertainment - 52 endorsements
• Music Production - 25 endorsements
• Songwriting - 20 endorsements
Nikki “The Nu Chic”
Smith
Overall Online Presence:
• 500+ connections, banner image is customized, Good
professional headshot, profile is detailed, no articles posted by
her, mildly active social media, customized LinkedIn URL
• Grade: Superior 90 out of 100
Industry Experience:
• Music Executive
• Recording Artist
• Contract drafting and Negotiation
• Music Producer
• Music Licensing
Education:
• B.S. Music Business, Full Sail University (2025)
• Certificate, Music Production, Full Sail University (2023)
• English Literature, Miami-Dade Honors College (2002)
Leadership Experience:
• Chief Executive Officer
• Marketing Manager
• Creative Director
Skills and Proficiencies:
• Music Industry - 99+ endorsements
• Entertainment - 87 endorsements
• Music Production - 62 endorsements
Overall Online Presence:
• 500+ connections, banner image is customized,
professionalism of headshot, very detailed profile, published
articles, active on other social media, LinkedIn URL
customized
• Grade: Superior, 95 out of 100

10. COMPETITION
Michelle Jubelirer
Chair and CEO at Capitol Music
Group
Leadership Experience:
• Partner/Music Attorney
• Board Member
Nikki L. Smith
CEO, LionFish Music &
Entertainment Group
Education:
• JD, Law, Fordham University School of Law
• B.A. Political Science and Economics, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill
Skills and Proficiencies:
• Music - 88 endorsements
• Entertainment Law – 70 endorsements
• Music Industry - 51 endorsements
Industry Experience:
• Consultant
• Corporate Paralegal
• Compliance Paralegal
• Contract Manager
• Negotiations
Education / Licenses & certificates:
• B.S. Music Business, Full Sail University (2025)
• Florida Bar Grievance Committee (2005)
Leadership Experience:
• Senior Paralegal
• Senior Contract Manager
• Prime Contract Administrator
• Team Lead
Skills and Proficiencies:
• Contract Management - 3 endorsements
• Contract Law - 1 endorsements
• Procurement – 1 endorsements
Overall Online Presence:
• 348 connections, banner image is customized, professionalism of
headshot is average, profile is detailed, no published articles, active on
other social media, LinkedIn URL customized
• Grade: Average, 70 out of 100
Industry Experience:
• Chair and CEO
• EVP
• COO
• Music Attorney
Overall Online Presence:
• 500+ connections, banner image is not
customized, professionalism of headshot is
average, moderately detailed profile
• , there are no published articles, active on
other social media, their LinkedIn URL is not
customized
• Grade: Superior, 100 out of 100

11. BRAND POSITION
A Miami native, I bring a wealth of experience in the music
industry as an artist, executive, creative director, and publicist.
My skills span contract negotiation, producing, licensing,
marketing, social media, business law, administration, project
management, and artist relations, all geared toward
transforming artistic aspirations into musical realities.
“THE MAESTRO

12. NETWORKING & MARKETING
• Music Industry Summit
Date: November 15-17, 2024
Location: Miami, FL
• Winter Music Conference
Date: March, 2024
Location: Miami, FL
• MUSEXPO 2024
Date: March 17th - 20th, 2024
Location: Burbank, CA
Digital Marketing
• Primary Content: Given my archetype as "Royalty" and my temperament, a mix of regal and inspiring
content would be perfect. I will connect with my audience by creating and publishing behind-the-scenes
glimpses of my music production process, snippets of my performances, and perhaps some thought-
provoking posts on music, business, and life.
• Primary Tools: Leverage social networks like Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Facebook and Twitter to
showcase my visually engaging content. For a touch of exclusivity, I will consider utilizing platforms like
Patreon for more dedicated fans. I am committed to post regularly, aiming for at least three times a week
on Instagram and daily updates on Twitter and LinkedIn. I will engage with my audience through polls,
Q&A sessions, and live sessions.
• Website: My website can serve as a centralized hub for all things Nikki and LionFish Music Group. It will
house my digital portfolio. I will regularly update it with the latest music releases, upcoming events, and
blog posts about my experiences and insights in the industry. I will also consider incorporating a
newsletter sign-up to keep my audience informed about exclusive updates.

13. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Mentor
Type of Mentor:
• I am currently under the mentorship of someone who has a successful track record as a music executive, artist relations manager and concert promoter in the
contemporary music industry. This individual has global experience navigating the complexities of the industry, managing diverse talents, and successfully
overseeing the development of artists.
Desired Experience and Lifestyle:
• My mentor has over 20 years of experience in roles similar to the ones I aspire to. They have a proven record of launching successful careers for artists and
managing the business side of a record label and has adapted to the digital age of music and understands the evolving landscape would be invaluable.
Date to Establish Partnership:
• I have already Initiated contact and am working with them for the next six months, after expressing a genuine interest in learning from their experiences and
insights. The goal to establish a mentorship partnership that will provide ongoing guidance and support as I progress in my career has already been met.
Formal Education
• B.S., Music Business, Full Sail University (2025)
• Certification, Music Production, Full Sail University (2023)
• Certification, Contract Management, (NCMA) (2024)
• Certification, Strategic Leadership, (Coursera.org) (2024)
• JD, University of Miami School of Law (2025)
Technical Skills
• Coursera.org: Enroll in an advanced music production course to stay
abreast of the latest industry trends and enhance my technical proficiency
in music production. PRESENTLY AND ONGOING
• NCMA (National Contract Management Association): Enroll in
certificate courses and leadership development programs. FEBRUARY
2024
• Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA): Attend a seminar
on the latest advancements in music copyright and licensing. JANUARY
2024
Soft Skills
• Coursera.org: Attend a workshop on emotional intelligence to refine
interpersonal skills, enhance empathy, MARCH 2024
• Association for Business Communication: Participate in a seminar
focusing on advanced communication strategies and active listening
techniques .JUNE 2024
• Leadership Certification: Complete courses and attend events that
build my understanding of my vital role as music executive. AUGUST
2024

14. NIKKI SMITH
You know in the music industry, aspiring artists often struggle to
navigate the complex world of contracts, negotiations, and business
administration, which can hinder their creative journey? Well, what I
do as a music executive and artist relations manager is provide
them with guidance and support and overall career development.
In fact, I've successfully helped numerous independent artists
secure favorable deals, launch their careers, and thrive in the
industry, all while maintaining their creative integrity.

15. REFERENCES
(n.d.). Manager/Director, Business & Legal Affairs [Review of Manager/Director, Business
& Legal Affairs]. myworkdayjobs.com; Universal Music Group.
https://umusic.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UMGUS/details/Director--Business-
Affairs_UMG-12559
Director, Partner Development - Sony Music - New York. (n.d.).
EntertainmentCareers.net. Retrieved December 2, 2023, from
https://www.entertainmentcareers.net/sony-music/director-partner-
development/job/447124/
bmccamish. (2022, November 6). The Ruler Brand Archetype. Bethany Works® LLC.
https://bethanyworks.com/ruler-brand-archetype/
Assistant, A&R - Warner Music Group - Los Angeles. (n.d.). EntertainmentCareers.net.
Retrieved December 2, 2023, from https://www.entertainmentcareers.net/warner-music-
group/assistant-a-and-r/job/448552/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathewknowles/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethiopia-habtemariam-b331b91aa/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-jubelirer-920b943/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/indiadgaston/
National Contract Management Association. (n.d.). NCMA. https://www.ncmahq.org
Coursera. (2018). Coursera | Online Courses & Credentials by Top Educators.
Coursera.https://www.coursera.org
ABC : Association for Business Communication. (n.d.). www.businesscommunication.org.
https://www.businesscommunication.org
University of Miami School of Law | University of Miami. (n.d.). Law.miami.edu. Retrieved
December 2, 2023, from https://www.law.miami.edu
Business success starts with leadership. (n.d.). Leadership Dynamics. Retrieved
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Home. (n.d.). RIAA. https://www.riaa.com
Music Industry Summit | Ohio University. (n.d.). Www.ohio.edu.
https://www.ohio.edu/music-industry-summit
NABFEME - Home. (n.d.). Nabfememember.org. Retrieved December 2, 2023, from
https://nabfememember.org
National Association of Recording Industry Professionals (NARIP). (n.d.).MUSIC
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AMA Artist Management Association. (n.d.). AMA. Retrieved December 2, 2023, from
https://artistmanagementassociation.org
WMC · Winter Music Conference – Virtual Edition – May 20-21, 2021. (n.d.). WMC ·
Winter Music Conference - Virtual Edition - May 20-21, 2021.
https://wintermusicconference.com
MUSEXPO 2024 | March 17th - 20th, 2024 - Burbank, California. (n.d.).
Www.musexpo.net. Retrieved December 2, 2023, from
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SXSW Conference & Festivals. (2016). SXSW. https://www.sxsw.com