Groupon Employee Spotlight:
Katie Grass

🎉 Celebrating 15 Years of Dedication and Growth: Katie's Incredible Journey at Groupon 🎉 

Fifteen years ago, Katie joined Groupon when it was just a small start-up, and today she’s a true veteran of the company! From launching the Orlando market in 2010 to thriving in sales and inspiring her colleagues, Kate has seen it all. Her ability to adapt, stay motivated, and build lasting connections (even meeting her boyfriend at Groupon!) has been key to her success.

As she reflects on the journey—from the early days in Customer Service to her current role in the TTD vertical—Katie’s dedication and passion continue to shine. She's excited about the future and committed to driving Groupon forward, always ready to embrace change and inspire those around her.

Here’s to Katie and this amazing milestone! 🥂

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey at Groupon over the past 15 years.

I started at Groupon in 2009, after graduating from the University of Michigan. I started in the Customer Service department, and quickly pivoted to sales. I launched the Orlando market in 2010, and have been on the TTD vertical since we verticalized. 

What initially brought you to Groupon, and what has motivated you to stay for 15 years?

Groupon was a small start-up when I initially joined - I had heard about it from a friend who urged me to apply. I enjoy working hard and being dedicated, which has motivated me to stay at Groupon for the past 15 years. 

Having been with Groupon for so long, what do you think are the core elements necessary for both individuals and teams to excel in an evolving company like Groupon?

Stay  motivated, don’t take things personally, and just put your head down and keep going.

What strategies have you developed over the years to consistently deliver exceptional results?

I am very self-motivated, and extremely organized, which keeps me focused. 

After 15 years of balancing high performance with personal life, how have you managed to maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Prior to the pandemic, my work life and social life were very intertwined. At Groupon, I have met some of my closest friends, and my current boyfriend of over 10 years. Participating in extracurriculars, team outings and social gatherings was always a priority for me. Now working from home, it is important for me to establish routines and habits that separate work from daily life, as working and living in the same space has definitely been an adjustment. 

Can you share a memorable challenge from your time at Groupon, and how you overcame it to achieve success?

One constant about Groupon is that there has always been change. Because of this, I have learned the importance of adapting quickly and staying goal-oriented.

Having witnessed many changes at Groupon, how do you inspire your colleagues to embrace continuous improvement and aim for excellence?

I’m lucky in that I’ve always been on teams with high-performers and hard-workers. For those of us who have been in sales together for years, we constantly encourage and learn from each other, and push each other to succeed.

As someone with 15 years of experience here, how do you envision the future of Groupon, and what role do you see yourself playing in it?

There have been many iterations of Groupon and roll outs of new products, strategies, etc. I think if we focus on our core product and are able to improve our site and user experience, I’d love to continue moving the company forward in Sales.

Do you remember the very first Groupon you purchased or experienced? How was that moment special to you?

One of the very first Groupons I purchased was for a workout studio nearby. My friend and I went together, and I have now been a member there for the past 10+ years (great ROI!)

What’s one activity or hobby you’ve picked up during your years at Groupon?

I have always been a big reader, but since working it’s been so important to me to unwind at the end of the day with a book, and without screens - and it’s become a necessary part of my nightly routine.

Rapid and Fire Questions

If you could relive any moment from your 15 years at Groupon, what would it be and why?

The holiday parties were always fun - meeting Salt N Pepa  at the 2015 party was a highlight.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done during your time here, and would you do it again?

Going into Sales was not something I ever planned on or thought I’d be good at/enjoy - but I love it. 

Finally, what was the last Groupon you bought—and does it compare to your very first?

I just bought Movie tickets to the movie theater I’ve been going to since childhood - it’s always exciting to see local favorites utilizing Groupon!