How do you accomplish the rare feat of being a female executive in one of the most male-dominated professions in Indiana? By working hard, being innovative, and leading from the front in all you do. These are just some of the qualities Laura Lakes brings to her role as Chief Operating Officer at TopView, an Indianapolis-based talent and marketing agency.
Laura Lakes had a humble start. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in psychology, she worked as an event production manager for two years with the NFL before transitioning to the world of music and entertainment. After working her way up to be one of the top talent executives in Indiana, she was one of the first people tapped by Topview to help lead the charge as they expanded into new markets.
It all started when she was a teenager, Lakes mentioned, "I was often around movie sets with my grandma, helping them with all the little pieces, and that's where I really got fascinated with the creative process." While working on her degree in Psychology from Indiana University, she found herself drawn to entertainment-related subjects. She goes on to say, "Throughout my career, I've always had a spot in the entertainment industry."
After graduating, she was hired in the non-profit sector assisting military veterans and collaborating on events with the NFL. Following that she started networking with people who could eventually lead her to a dream job working in the music industry at TopView. Her work has helped the company grow exponentially over the last few years, leading it through the nation's largest economic crisis in decades. With big goals set for 2023, such as expanding their services and team into new departments and offerings, Lakes says there is no better time than now to work with TopView.
Since taking the helm at TopView in 2020, Laura has managed over 150 artists, creators, and figures in entertainment. Additionally, overseeing the execution and delivery of nearly a thousand campaigns. She is also responsible for managing the company's intricate talent growth initiatives. In addition to her executive duties, she is also a licensed real estate agent and distinguished model.
“We are doing a lot of things that will change the industry for women. To represent Indiana as the only female executive in this industry is something I take great pride in. I want people to be able to see themselves in me”, says Laura. "It all comes back around", says Laura, smiling over her coffee mug. Laura believes, more female executives in entertainment industries will continue to create ground-breaking barriers that pave the way for advancement opportunities for future generations of young girls.
Topview is looking to have a large impact on Indianapolis for years to come and will continue to grow by following the lead of its COO, Laura Lakes. But with her advancement in the company and as a female executive in Indiana, there are no limits to what she can achieve. With a work ethic like hers, anything is possible. And with this success under her belt, there is no limit on how far she could go and how many more young girls she could inspire.