Cedar Rapids marketing exec off to work the Winter Games

Cedar Rapids marketing agency co-owner Heather Smith is getting ready for a close-up look at the Winter Games in Vancouver.

Smith, 39, is scheduled to depart today for a job as a trainer with Gameday Management Group. She will train event staff manning a network of small kiosks that serve as “safe houses” for athletes to relax and collect themselves at the Olympic venues.

“I'm excited about seeing the inner workings,” said Smith, co-owner of de Novo Alternative Marketing in Cedar Rapids.

Smith found out about the job when she was chatting with an old colleague on Facebook. She knew the friend from her days as a field marketing manager for the energy drink company Red Bull, which sponsored the X Games and other professional sports events.

The friend told her that her background working with professional athletes would be great for the temporary position.

“I kind of thought she was joking around,” Smith said.

Smith is still learning about what the job will entail.

“They said, “Buy a good pair of snow boots! We'll clothe you and feed you.”

Smith was a little apprehensive about taking a few weeks off from her work and familial duties, but she expects to have some interesting stories to tell when she gets back.