Erin Pellegrini
Creative Services and Marketing Manager
DS Graphics | Universal Wilde
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-pellegrini-044b134/
1) What does “making your move” mean to you at this stage of your career?
At this point in my career, ‘making my move’ means continuing to build on everything I’ve created here—processes, relationships, and a creative department that didn’t exist before—and using that foundation to keep pushing our work forward. I’m focused on growing in ways that let me influence bigger decisions, support the team, and help the company evolve, all while continuing to challenge myself.
2) Can you share a moment when you took action that moved your career forward?
One moment that really moved my career forward was when I finally spoke up about the work I was doing. I had been leading projects, shaping processes, and essentially managing our new Creative Services department long before I had the title. I waited longer than I should have, hoping the recognition would come on its own. But eventually I realized I needed to advocate for myself, so I asked directly why my title didn’t match the responsibility I’d already taken on. That conversation changed everything — I was given the manager title right away, and it opened the door to even more opportunities, including a much deeper role within our marketing team. It taught me not to undersell the value I bring and to speak up when I’ve earned the next step.
3) What helped you recognize the right time to make that move?
What helped me recognize the right time was realizing I had already grown into the role long before the title caught up. I’d built a department, taken on leadership responsibilities, and was consistently being relied on at a higher level. For a long time, I just kept pushing forward and didn’t question it. But when I looked at the work I was doing, and the impact it was having, it became clear that I needed to speak up. That shift in perspective is what told me it was time to ask for the title and recognition I had already earned.
4) What advice would you give women in print who are considering their next move?
My advice to women in print who are considering their next move is to trust the value you bring and not wait too long to advocate for yourself. This industry is full of opportunities, but sometimes you have to take the initiative to claim the space you’ve already earned.
Also, pay attention to how your environment makes you feel. I’ve been in places where I didn’t feel supported or valued, and leaving those environments opened the door to roles where I could grow and contribute at a much higher level. Surround yourself with people who recognize your strengths, challenge you in the right ways, and give you room to grow.
What has your experience with Girls Who Print meant to you so far?
Girls Who Print has honestly been a really meaningful part of my journey so far. Through this group, I’ve connected with so many incredible women in the industry, people who are smart, driven, and genuinely supportive. Those connections have made a real impact on me both personally and professionally.
Because of this network, I was invited to be on a QA panel with industry peers, which was such a great experience. And without this community, my daughter and I may never have had the chance to be featured in the PINE Magazine issue on women in print. That was a really special moment for us, and something I’ll remember forever.
The group is uplifting, collaborative, and refreshing in an industry that can sometimes feel pretty demanding. I’m grateful to be a part of this strong supportive circle of women.
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