The trajectory of my career is a testament to the power of adaptability, lifelong learning, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, Georgia to the bustling avenues of Chicago, my journey has been one of significant achievements, with each step marked by an unwavering commitment to mastering the art and science of digital marketing.
Early Leadership and a Foundation in IT Education
Born and raised in Eastern Europe, I developed a strong sense of resilience and determination early in life. These qualities propelled me into a leadership role at the age of 24 when I became the Lead of Operation and Marketing of IT Academy Step. This institution, with its headquarters in Ukraine, is globally recognized for its excellence in IT education.
Leading such a prestigious academy at a young age was both an honor and a challenge. It required a deep understanding of digital transformation, curriculum development, and organizational management. During my tenure, we expanded our programs, integrating cutting-edge technologies to prepare students for the rapidly evolving digital landscape. For me, my position at IT Academy Step was not just a leadership role, but a profound learning experience that laid the foundation for my future in digital marketing.
Driving Growth in the Construction and Real Estate Sectors
After my impactful role in IT education, I transitioned into the construction industry as the Lead of Marketing and Sales at Unix, a construction development company. In this role, I was tasked with developing and implementing integrated marketing strategies that significantly enhanced the company’s market position.
My approach combined traditional marketing techniques with digital innovation, and I leveraged data-driven insights to optimize campaigns and maximize ROI. This experience not only honed my B2B marketing skills but also deepened my understanding of market dynamics in the construction sector. My team delivered successful marketing strategies and transformative projects.
Expanding Global Expertise with Swiss Company 50plus
Seeking to broaden my horizons, I then joined 50plus, a Swiss company that specializes in connecting experienced professionals over the age of 50 with meaningful employment opportunities abroad.
As a Sales and Marketing Expert, I developed and executed targeted digital marketing campaigns that successfully connected seasoned professionals with job opportunities that matched their skills and aspirations. This role was particularly fulfilling as it combined my passion for marketing with a mission-driven purpose, helping individuals redefine their careers and find new opportunities later in life.
Academic Excellence and Professional Mastery
Throughout my career, I have been committed to continuous learning and professional development. My qualifications have been credit-rated by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Partnership (SCQF Partnership) as equivalent to a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing. This recognition underscores the depth and breadth of my expertise in digital marketing, including advanced strategies in PPC, SEO, content marketing, and data analytics.
Further solidifying my expertise, I graduated from Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management’s Executive Education program, earning a certificate in Digital Marketing Strategies: Data, Automation, AI & Analytics. This program enhanced my ability to leverage cutting-edge tools and technologies to drive marketing success in today’s digital-first world. In addition to these credentials, I hold numerous diplomas and certifications from industry leaders including Google, HubSpot, and Semrush, all of which have equipped me with a comprehensive toolkit to tackle any digital marketing challenge.
Next Move: to the United States
I relocated to the United States, embracing the vibrant and competitive landscape of Chicago. Starting anew in a city renowned for its innovation and business acumen was both a challenge and an opportunity. I quickly immersed myself in the local market, applying my digital marketing expertise to help businesses optimize their online presence, increase their brand visibility, and achieve their strategic goals. My work in Chicago has been a continuation of my commitment to excellence, driving impactful results through data-driven strategies, innovative content, and precise market targeting.
I am now based in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area where I continue to leverage my digital marketing expertise to support businesses in achieving their full potential. With a deep understanding of diverse markets and consumer behavior, I remain focused on delivering measurable success for clients across industries, adapting to new environments while maintaining my dedication to innovation and strategic growth.
Joining Empirical Consulting Solutions: The Perfect Synergy
Today, I am proud to serve as a Digital Marketing Associate at Empirical Consulting Solutions, where I bring together my global experience, academic achievements, and deep industry knowledge to drive success for our clients.
At Empirical, I work alongside a team of talented professionals, applying advanced digital marketing techniques—such as marketing automation, AI-driven analytics, and multi-channel strategies—to deliver measurable results. This role allows me to combine my passion for digital marketing with my dedication to helping businesses thrive in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
The Personal Journey: Family and Fulfillment
Beyond my professional accomplishments, my greatest joy and inspiration come from my family. I am blessed to have a loving husband, Gauch Nikolas, who is my rock and my greatest source of motivation. Together, we are raising six wonderful children, and they are the heart of everything I do. Balancing a demanding career with motherhood is no easy task, but it is a challenge I embrace with enthusiasm.
To all the working mothers out there, remember: we can achieve everything we set our minds to do. Our ability to juggle multiple roles with determination and grace is what makes us unstoppable.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on my journey in digital marketing, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future. My path has been shaped by a commitment to learning, a passion for innovation, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
At Empirical Consulting Solutions, I am deeply committed to empowering our clients to achieve their highest potential. By leveraging my extensive expertise in digital marketing strategies and data-driven insights, I strive to deliver tailored solutions that not only meet but exceed their business objectives. My goal is to help clients navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, enabling them to unlock new opportunities, drive measurable growth, and position themselves for long-term success in their industries.
Peri Nikolas has been an important addition to the Empirical team, and is known for her extensive experience creating and managing digital marketing campaigns with impact. Be sure to connect with Peri on LinkedIn!
