Jeff Hales '06

Director of Sales and Marketing,

Roguelephant Clothing

q: What do you do?

a: Run a start-up clothing business with two partners. My role is developing strategic markets and advertising strategies. Until now, we've only marketed through our web site, Roguelephant.com, but at our launch party in Chicago at the end of June, we're revealing an expanded clothing line-up. It's my job to get it in stores.

q: What's your favorite part of the job?

a: Owning our own business, we have the flexibility to make decisions very quickly. Since the three of us are in different states, we talk on Skype. We outsource nearly everything.

q: What's the greatest challenge?

a: Spreading the word and working out all the details.

q: Do you stay in touch with any other UCF hospitality alums?

a: Since graduating, I keep in touch with Dave Buckalew '05, Jessica Dowd '06, Brad Franklin '05 and Dana Reiss '06.

q: Outside work...you're most likely to be seen?

a: I also work at Starwood Vacation Ownership, and get to the beach when I can.

q: Your biggest accomplishment since graduating, outside your career?

a: Outside my career...probably getting tickets to the 2009 Masters.

q: How did UCF prepare you for what you do?

a: Definitely the networking. Who you know is important, but who knows you is even more important. UCF played a major role in connecting me with the latest networking events, market trends and creative strategies.

q: How could the hospitality program have been better?

a: There's too much theory and not enough real world experience. For instance, more sales training should be incorporated into the curriculum. Every position encompasses sales, even if it's just pitching ideas to your boss. Sales plays a major role in all aspects of careers.

q: A UCF memory?

a: Being the president of CMAA and study abroad in Europe.

q: Favorite meal in Orlando?

a: Actually it's not in Orlando but in Cocoa Beach: the wings and oysters at Shuckleberry Fins, which are 45 cents on Sundays. Try the Thai Chili.

q: On your iPod?

a: A blend of hip hop, rock, jazz and chill.

q: Little known fact about you?

a: I am fascinated by languages. I speak some Spanish and am currently learning Arabic.