Name: Alejandra Denda
Job title: CMO
Company: The Federal Savings Bank
Country: USA
Alejandra is a passionate, experienced, global marketing leader focused on driving
purposeful change and growing revenue. A high energy executive, she has deep
curiosity and a strategic mindset, is an insightful problem solver who believes in
leading from the heart.
She has a proven track record of more than 25 years driving results across
geographies, channels, categories, and consumer segments. She has led functional
and agency teams for companies such as Kimberly-Clark, Clorox, Colgate-Palmolive,
Pinnacle Foods, Carrefour, and several WPP advertising and omni-channel agencies.
She currently serves as CMO of The Federal Savings Bank, an FDIC-insured federally
chartered US bank focused primarily on home lending. Alejandra has been leading a
holistic rebranding, driving innovative growth strategies as well spearheading new
lead acquisition and digital engagement initiatives.
Her experience on the client, agency, and retailer sides, combined with her expertise
in both traditional and digital based approaches has made a difference for
companies in the US, Latin American and EMEA markets.
Prior to The Federal Savings Bank, Alejandra held senior leadership roles across the
consumer products world; most recently as SVP, Managing Director for WPP
agencies supporting digital, ecommerce, shopper marketing and digital media efforts
for Kimberly Clark.
Alejandra loves teaching, mentoring, and developing leaders and teams. She is
currently an Adjunct Professor of “Branding in the Digital Age” at Northwestern
University-Medill School of Journalism and Integrated Marketing Communications
Graduate program.
Originally from Argentina, Alejandra spent 20 years of her life in New York and now
lives in Chicago with her family. She spends her time cooking with friends and family
or escaping the cold winters traveling and sharing new cultures and
experiences. She has also studied Yoga, Yoga Therapy, Meditation and Ayurveda in
India, and she brings her third eye perspective to everything she does.
Alejandra graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Buenos Aires Business
School where she holds a 2-year specialization in Marketing as well as a Graduate
Degree in International Marketing from Harvard University. Alejandra is fluent in
English, Spanish and proficient in Portuguese, French and Italian
Angie Gifford serves as Vice President for the EMEA region at Meta, overseeing the
business development for the platforms Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram,
Messenger, and Meta Quest in countries across Europe, the Middle East, and the
African continent. Previously, Angie was Vice President of the Central Europe region
at Meta. Until the end of 2018, she led Hewlett-Packard's (HP) software and
digitization business in German-speaking countries as managing director. Previously,
Angie spent more than 20 years in various senior management positions at Microsoft
in Germany and abroad, including as a member of the German executive
management team. In 2009, an independent organization honored Angie as
“businesswoman of the year”. The leading German business publication “manager
magazin” voted her one of the 100 most influential businesswomen. Angie also
serves as a member of the board of the German-American non-profit association
“Atlantik-Brücke” and is part of the corporate supervisory board of Thyssenkrupp.
She formerly served on the supervisory boards of TUI, ProSiebenSat.1 and
Rothschild.
Name: Ayanna Gabriel
Job title: Senior Manager, Strategic Marketing,
United Nations Federal Credit Union
Company: UNFCU
Country: USA
Ayanna Gabriel has over 20 years of financial/international marketing experience. Ayanna currently
leads a team of two marketing associates and supports the overarching global marketing strategy,
business objectives, and goals for UNFCU.
The tactical marketing plans developed by the marketing associates reporting to Ayanna strengthens the
product and brand marketing initiatives. It ensures flawless logistical planning and coordination prior to
launches. The tactical plans help to define effective targeting and segmentation to maximize potential
audience penetration and proper usage of value propositions.
Ayanna is primarily responsible for maintaining knowledge of the competitive banking landscape for key
geographic regions globally. She implements and executes quantifiable relevant cross-channel
strategies. Ayanna provides strategic consultative advice and recommendations to the lines of
businesses she supports. Ayanna also supports UNFCU’s marketing, corporate, and financial goals with
respect to its various product portfolios.
Prior to joining UNFCU, Ayanna started her career as a trading assistant at Investec Ernst on Wall Street.
Her desire to become a marketer propelled her to leave the trading post and become a marketing
specialist at Banc of America Specialist.
Ayanna recently joined the Board of Directors for KI USA. She will be embarking on a journey to climb
Mount Kilimanjaro in August 2024.
Name: Barbara Hamilton-Sustad
Job title: Sr. Director US & International Marketing
Company: Mayo Clinic
Country: USA
A proven leader with exceptional analytical skills and a history of success in multiple roles and industries. Leads the US and International Marketing teams with responsibility for the overall strategy and development of marketing plans to support the business objectives of the organization. Extensive experience in strategic planning, agency management, and targeted demand generation. Leads the development, execution and measurement of strategic marketing initiatives, marketing planning, P & L management and budgeting process, for marketing activities across multiple sites both Domestic and Internationally. A collaborative partner that provides thought leadership to the development of business, branding, market, and financial objectives.
Education includes an MBA from the University of Minnesota and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Syracuse University
Name: Brad Audet
Job title: CMO
Company: Mazda
Country: USA
Brad became Chief Marketing Officer of Mazda Motor America as the world entered the pandemic in 2020. Despite macro environmental challenges and the cultural struggles of overseeing a remote team, he oversaw five product launches, initiated a marketing transformation plan, and evolved internal and external capabilities, all leading to Mazda becoming one of a few auto brands to increase sales volume and share. Furthermore, the company is projected to have its best sales year since the early 1990s in 2023.
In his position, he oversees all things customer, including marketing communications, public relations, customer experience design, the customer experience center, dealer marketing, marketing science and analytics, and motorsports. Brad serves as the executive sponsor of the Women in Leadership EBRG and is a member of the company’s DE&I executive board. He also led Mazda’s CSR strategy and set up its ESG approach.
Brad joined Mazda with considerable marketing and agency experience. Most recently, he spent seven years leading Garage Team Mazda (GTM), WPP’s bespoke integrated marketing agency. He led marketing transformation for GTM and served as a strategic counselor to the Mazda executive team.
Prior to GTM, Brad held various leadership roles at WPP across numerous clients, including Ford, Shell, Scotts Miracle-Gro, Bosch, New Balance, Sports Authority, and Carhartt.
Name: Catarina Barradas
Job title: Head of Global Brand at EDP
Company: EDP
Country: Portugal
Catarina Barradas is the Head of Global Brand at EDP, an energy company present in 29 markets around the globe that is leading the energy transition with the goal to be all green by 2030.
She graduated from Instituto Superior Técnico, in Lisbon, with a degree in Civil Engineering, but her passion for filmmaking led her towards a different path by studying cinema at the prestigious New York Film Academy. Later in her career, Catarina also completed an Executive MBA at AESE/IESE.
She is a dynamic professional with a unique career journey, who started her career as a Civil Engineer, but in 2007 transitioned to the role of Audiovisual Production Consultant in the leading Telco company in Portugal, named Portugal Telecom (now Altice). Her rich professional experience caught the attention of Fox Networks Group in 2015 (later acquired by The Walt Disney Company in 2019), when she was invited to take on the role of Marketing Director and was responsible for managing all the group's brands: FOX, National Geographic, Disney+, amongst others. Her exceptional work with these brands earned her numerous prestigious international and national awards. In June 2021, Catarina assumed the position of Head of Global Brand at EDP, facing the significant challenge of overseeing the brand strategy, sponsorships, and brand activation across the globe. She led the company’s global rebranding in 2022 with great results, reinforcing EDP as Portugal’s Most Valuable Brand.
Catarina's diverse skill set and track record of successful projects, makes her a highly valued leader in the field of brand management and marketing.
Name: Chantal Stephens
Job title: SVP Brand & Performance Marketing
Company: Holiday Inn Club Vacations
Country: USA
Chantal Stephens is currently serving Holiday Inn Club Vacations as the Senior Vice President of Performance Marketing and Revenue Enhancement, and brings more than 20 years of experience to the role. Leading and learning at Fortune 500s and highly distinguished brands such as The Walt Disney Company, SeaWorld, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company prepared her to provide a vision for Holiday Inn Club Vacations. Serving as an intrapreneur, Stephens built a net new department with a startup mentality inside an established company to drive brand innovation, digital transformation, and re-defined consumer experiences for accelerated growth.
Stephens is a change agent inspired by possibilities, relentless in the pursuit of data that matters, and always up for a challenge. She speaks three languages and gained global experience in Montreal, Boston, Mexico City, Miami, and Orlando. Outside of the office, you can find her spending time with family, baking, gardening, or on the water kite boarding.
Name: Christina Pletnewski
Job title: SVP, CMO
Company: Safelite Group
Country: USA
They say good things come in small packages. At 5 feet tall (before stilettos), Christina Pletnewski is a powerhouse marketer, leading new and innovative approaches to modern marketing and UX. She is currently responsible for Brand Strategy, Creative Content, Media, and UX.
Christina joined Safelite Group in January of 2016 as the Vice President of Marketing leading TV creative and media, market research, B2B marketing, corporate communications, internal creative and ancillary products and services. In 2020, she led the creation of the Customer Experience function at Safelite, focused on building a customer centric journey from end to end.
As a career marketer and customer advocate, Christina has worked for leading companies including Abott, Nestle and SC Johnson.
Christina earned her bachelor's degree in business administration and her MBA at The Ohio State University.
Name: Desta Lakew
Job title: Group Director, Partnerships & EA
Company: Amref Health Africa
Country: Kenya
Desta Lakew leads global partnerships for Africa. In this role, she has been engaged in securing high level strategic global partnerships for Amref Health Africa. Desta has served on the Executive and Senior Management teams of Amref since 2014. Desta leads thought leadership and external engagements at the corporate headquarters of Amref and instrumental in the establishment and leadership of the bi-annual Africa Health Agenda International Conference; the global south dialogue knowledge exchange platform on Universal Health Coverage in Africa and Asia; and the launching various campaigns including the Africa CoVID-19 Vaccine Equity Campaign and Communities at the Heart of UHC global advocacy campaign.
Desta has served on a number of global committees including Future of Global Health Initiatives, Global Patient Think Tank, and the Global Health Equity Group. Desta holds a Masters of Public Health from the State University of New York and currently serves on Acumen East Africa’s regional advisory board and the Thematic Working Group on Private Sector of Health Systems Global.
Name: Eugenia Zalis
Job title: Global Head of Brand & Mktg, OREO
Company: Mondelez
Country: USA
Eugenia Zalis is a Marketing Executive & Brand Leader with extensive marketing experience across diverse industries and geographies, and strong track record in FMCG companies.
Eugenia's career highlights include:
-Eugenia Zalis has 20 years’ experience in Marketing at Unilever where she made significant contributions to several iconic brands in a variety of roles across brand and consumer insights, notoriously spending more than 15 years on the Dove brand since ‘Campaing for Real Beauty’ to the launch of ‘Dove MEN+Care’ to the expansion into China and the impressive growth of Dove Deodorants. Culminating in her last role as Global Brand Vice President for Deodorants, overseeing a diverse portfolio of brands like Suave, Lux, Vaseline, Brut, Simple, Monsavon, Radox, Duschdas, and Williams.
-She has then worked as a consultant for Kantar Consulting, Futures Practice with notable clients such as ABI, Estee Lauder, Amex and others, providing strategic insights and recommendations.
-At Henkel as Head of Marketing Beauty Care NA, she delivered a profitable 5-year growth strategy, crafted brand positioning, and launched successful product lines for brands such as Schwarzkopf hair color, Got2B and Dial.
-In Natura &CO, he worked as Chief Marketing Officer for Avon, where she led efforts to reposition and relaunch the brand, refine category strategies, and enhance brand equities, and as Global Group Marketing Vice President at Natura &Co, where she worked with an $8 billion revenue portfolio amongst 4 Business Units (Natura, Avon, Aesop, The Body Shop) to develop portfolio strategy, brand positioning, and visual identity.
-In November 2022, Eugenia transitioned to the role of Global OREO Brand Vice President at Mondelez International, where she is responsible for Mondelez’s largest brand’s growth strategy, long term innovation and deliver ambitious financial goals together with the business units.
Eugenia is a proud Argentinean, but now lives in Greater New York with her husband, three kids, three dogs and spends most of her free time being with her family and enjoys reading, cooking, practicing yoga and spending time with friends.
Name: Fanny Goldstein
Job title: Sr. Director Demand Accelerator
Company: PepsiCo, Inc.
Country: LATAM
Fanny is a transformational and results-driven executive with over 15 years of experience driving growth and performance in global FMCG companies. As a marketing and commercial leader, she has an innate talent for uncovering opportunities that expand categories and deliver results.
With a strong foundation in marketing management and human insights, Fanny takes full P&L ownership and accountability. She seeks to provide consumer-centric solutions that simplify complexity and inspire action across the organization.
Currently, Fanny is responsible for end-to-end Shopper Solutions and Perfect Store execution across all retail channels. She focuses on creating omnichannel programs and experiences that drive performance in a fast-paced retail landscape.
As a collaborative leader, Fanny operates at both strategic and executional levels flawlessly. She aims to inspire through purposeful leadership centered on consumers, marketing and commercial capabilities, and courage to disrupt.
Name: Georgia Hack
Job title: Chief Digital and Marketing Officer
Company: L'Oreal Australia & New Zealand
Country: Australia
Georgia Hack is an accomplished marketing, digital and business professional with a proven track record of building brand equity and driving profitable growth.
Over 18 years experience across all marketing disciplines including marketing strategy, branding, customer segmentation, customer research and insights, media planning and buying, e-commerce, digital and growth marketing, public relations, creative direction and content, customer experience, CRM/loyalty strategies combined with a Masters in Marketing from the Melbourne Business School.
Georgia has driven the marketing function of some of Australia’s leading retail brands including Australia’s premium department store David Jones.
Joining David Jones at height of transformation, Georgia has built brand equity with a focus on premium positioning, navigated the consumer shift towards digital, and developed an entrepreneurial culture within the team to drive growth.
In 2021, Georgia joined the Australian Wool Innovation board as Non Executive Director to contribute her marketing and retailing skills to one of Australia's most important agriculture industries.
In March 2023, Georgia joined L'Oreal Australia & New Zealand as Chief Digital & Marketing Officer overseeing Consumer Insights & Analytics, Consumer Experience (CRM, Loyalty, Consumer Care), E-Commerce, Media, and Advocacy / Content.
A creative problem solver and highly effective communicator, Georgia thrives on establishing high-performing teams and has significant experience presenting and engaging at Executive Committee and Board level. Georgia is an inclusive, empathetic leader who has a passion for growing and leading people, inspiring teams to reach great heights.
Name: Gita de Beer
Job title: Growth Officer
Company: Media Publishare, Vogue
Country: Singapore
Throughout my over 20-year career, my talent for identifying untapped opportunities has driven my
success. Initially in the B2C sector, I spent 18 rewarding years with leading companies like Unilever,
Coca-Cola, and Diageo in different roles in innovation, marketing, and luxury business development.
Transitioning to B2B, I enhanced my leadership and strategic acumen at DSM and JLL, managing a
P&L and contributing to life science and commercial real estate board decisions. Currently, at Media
Publishare, handling luxury titles like Vogue and Robb Report, I spearhead revenue growth, blending
traditional luxury marketing with advanced technology to distinguish in the market and maximize
shareholder value. My commitment to continuous learning is at the heart of my drive, as evidenced
by my recently obtained master’s in digital management.
Growing up with a backdrop of different cultures taught me the value of helping others. This has
driven my deep commitment to supporting women from less privileged backgrounds, a part of my
life that goes beyond my work. I also serve on the Marketing Society board in Singapore, where I
support the growth and development of the marketing community. My love for arts, fashion, and
design enriches my life. Time spent with my family and our dog, and these creative passions bring joy
and inspire me, influencing my personal life and professional work.
Name: Guido Hagenaars
Job title: Head of Marketing South West Europe
Company: Upfield
Country: NL
Greetings, I'm Guido Hagenaars, living Amstelveen, Netherlands. I am happily married to Lisette, who works at Dentsu, and together, we have two daughters both going to University in Groningen (Medicine and International Business).
Outside of my family life, I find immense joy in fostering connections with friends and loved ones. I love good food and wines. Music is a constant companion, reflecting my eclectic taste—ranging from Reggae, Dance, and Classical to Soul, R&B, Hip Hop and Pop.
In the realm of activities, tennis courts and gym sessions fill my weekly routine, ensuring a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Professionally, I bring forth a wealth of experience spanning 25 years in both international and local marketing. My journey includes pivotal roles in esteemed companies such as Unilever and Upfield, encompassing corporate and private equity environments. My strategic acumen harmonizes seamlessly with a hands-on approach to implementation. I possess a knack for inspiring teams, fostering higher engagement, and driving exceptional performance.
My perspective extends beyond the marketing realm, encapsulating a holistic understanding of business dynamics and a dedicated focus on P&L management. I thrive as an energizing, results-oriented professional, adept at crafting solution-driven approaches.
I am passionate about leveraging my skills to make meaningful contributions to the world, always aiming for excellence while fostering an enjoyable and collaborative work environment.
Name: Henrique Fontana Striker
Job title: Head of Marketing - LATAM
Company: AkzoNobel
Country: Brazil
Henrique Fontana Striker, Brazilian, currently Regional Marketing Director for AkzoNobel in Latin America is 39 years old with over 20 years of experience in commercial and marketing roles in the chemical industry and retail and a former professional athlete, having played basketball professionally until the age of 22.
Graduated with honors in Business Administration at FAAP in his hometown São Paulo. Shortly after joined Saint-Gobain distribution branch in Brazil, acting as Category Manager, same role held at Etna Home Store. Joined AkzoNobel in 2011 to become brand manager for the paint brand Coral in Brazil. Successfully redesigned the innovation process and launched Acrílito Total, relaunched Decora to drive the brand growth in the premium segment.
Moved to Amsterdam to lead the media and content development program for AkzoNobel Decorative Paint brand globally. Contributed and led several initiatives in harmonizing and sharpening the “Flourish” brand positioning, content and media strategies. Moved back to his hometown to lead the marketing organization in Latin America, deploying the now 3 years old “Promise” campaign in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay and leading the integration of the brand Pintuco, from Andean and Central America, into the “Flourish” family.
Married with Mariana since 2016, proud dad of Francisco, Rafael and Maria Gabriela. Avid for sports currently engaging with swimming.
Name: Irina Rodina
Job title: CMO Northern Europe
Company: Kraft Heinz
Country: UK
After 20 years of local, regional and global marketing roles at Unilever and 3 years with Italian pasta company Barilla, Irina joined Kraft Heinz in May 2022 as CMO & Commercial Director Northern Europe.
At Heinz, Irina’s challenge is to nurture the love for this quintessentially British icon that is present in 90% of families and is so embedded into British culture, as well as growing the portfolio of iconic products among which L&P, Salad Cream, HP and of course Heinz Beanz and Heinz Ketchup. This includes driving the brand in difficult times of cost of living crisis, ensuring everything possible is done to bring value to consumers and to keep products as affordable as possible. As well as looking at ways to surprise and delight with new limited editions and taste innovations, while continuing on brand’s commitment to community it serves through sustainability, nutrition, diversity & inclusion.
Name: Jacqui Waine
Job title: General Manager, Marketing and Community
Company: Scentre Group
Country: Australia
Jacqui Waine is an accomplished marketing professional with extensive experience in the retail industry. As the General Manager of Marketing and Community at Scentre Group Australia and New Zealand, Jacqui is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's marketing initiatives for the Westfield brand along with community engagement programs.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Jacqui has developed a deep understanding of consumer behaviour and the evolving trends in marketing. She is known for her strategic thinking, innovative ideas, and ability to deliver exceptional results. Jacqui is also a strong advocate for reconciliation, leading the work group at Scentre Group and supporting the delivery of the reconciliation action plan. She is and is also involved in several initiatives that support women in leadership positions.
Outside of work, Jacqui loves being a mother to her 5year old son and a wife who enjoys spending time with her family, friends and staying active.
Name: John Woods
Job title: Chief Revenue Officer
Company: Zenus Bank
Country: UK
An accomplished CMO/CRO, John has had a distinguished career marked by transformative leadership and accelerated growth in companies across the full business lifecycle – a turn-around, start-up, scale-up, carve-out and FTSE 250 IPO, alongside multinational corporates in Barclays and Samsung.
Currently acting Chief Revenue Officer at Zenus Bank, John played a pivotal role in the successful launch of the Puerto Rico based, award-winning, cross-border infrastructure bank. Overseeing proposition development and go-to-market strategies alongside establishing the Marketing and omni-channel, multilingual Client Service function.
Early roles have seen John assist Bain Capital in launching Zellis, (the UK’s largest payroll & HR SaaS provider), launch mobile phones and TVs across Europe with Samsung, help clients navigate the world of FX trading and businesses take-off and grow with the relaunch of digital banking at Barclays.
Passionate about marketing as an industry, John is a Chartered Marketer, Marketing Society member and mentor. Believing people make the biggest difference in business he’s enthusiastic about company culture, values, behaviours and people development.
When not working, he enjoys eating tasty food, washing it down with good wine and then cycling it off around Richmond Park, where he lives.
Name: Kai Jahns
Job title: CEO
Company: Babo International
Country: Hong Kong
Born 27.06.1970 in Holzminden, Germany;
1981 – 1992 State approved private boarding school „Lanschuldheim am Solling“, in
Holzminden, graduation Abitur (university-entrance diploma)
1992 – 1993 6th Special Tank Division (6. Panzeraufklaerungsbataillion) Eutin, Germany
1993 – 1994 Internship at Shott France in Paris in combination with French Language Course at Berlitz
08/1994 – 08/1996 Aussenhandelskammer Hamburg, graduated master foreign trade
Had been working in my business life for international pulp producing companies and international, trading companies in the field of forest products.
That was leading me into general management with extensive experience in the pulp and paper industry, including terminals, ports and governments. Development of key customer relationships in Asia and Pacific and other regions of the world, as well as acting with global paper producers, such as Kimberley Clark for example.
I am a commercial, analytical, strategic and conceptual thinker with strong technical background with all kinds of pulp and wood.
Developed over the years in the industry various markets for pulp producers, such as
for Fibria, the world leading pulp company, developed a solid customer base all over in Asia, Europe and North America.
Now working for Vanov / Babo company in the position of the VP Vanov Oversea markets and CEO of Babo International Hong Kong in the field of bamboo pulp / tissue.
Katie is a creative business leader, known for her ability to drive growth in every endeavour. Her deep passion for making sustainability more human and her unique perspective on transforming businesses fuel her desire to foster conscious consumption while achieving business results.
As Vice President of Global Arla Brand at Arla Foods, a Scandinavian farmer-owned cooperative (fifth largest dairy globally), Katie has the responsibility of strategically developing the equity and sales of Arla brand, now worth €3.7bn, as well as the global ownership for various scaled sub-brands and the plant based business for the total company. Leading a dedicated team of 30 professionals, Katie sets direction for the global Arla brand team of approx. 300 marketers. Drawing from her extensive 20+ year career, she has held senior positions at Heinz, Mattel, and Associated British Foods.
Katie's track record shows a talent for designing consumer-centric strategies that yield double-digit growth. She is a determined leader who fosters strong relationships and collaboration to empower individuals to reach their full potential. What truly sets Katie apart is her combination of empathy and envisioning, transforming strategy into action, and ability to solve complex problems.
Outside of work, Katie finds joy in travel and food with her husband, Jason, and raising their three daughters in Harrogate, England, Neve, Erin, and Elle
Name: Kim Kitchings
Job title: Senior Vice President, Consumer Marketing
Company: Cotton Incorporated
Country: USA
Kim Kitchings is the Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing at Cotton Incorporated. Kim leads consumer and trade advertising, corporate communications and strategy, global market insights and brand partnerships. In this role, Kim’s primary goals are to motivate consumers and the trade to buy items made of cotton and to affirm cotton as the fiber of choice for sustainable and eco-friendly products.
Kim joined Cotton Incorporated as manager of market research and prior to her current position she was Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Program Metrics. Over her 20+ year career in the cotton industry, Kim has been instrumental in strategic assessments of global consumer demand and market evaluations for cotton. Market analytics are central to establishing cotton’s competitive position globally, impacting Cotton Incorporated’s product development portfolio, how to proactively communicate cotton’s benefits and sustainability to the industry as well as ease the consumer journey to find and buy cotton products. Kim oversees the use of a wide-array of tools such as digital marketing, social media, television, strategic partnerships, and presentations to communicate cotton’s messages to various constituents.
Kim received a Bachelor of Arts in Business from North Carolina State University and Masters in Business Administration from Meredith College. She is a frequent presenter at industry conferences on innovation, consumer insights and marketing. Her passion beyond advocating on behalf of the cotton industry is spending time with her husband and three children and canvasing the retail market for cotton items—a professional bonus.
Name: Kim Potters
Job title: EMEA Commercial Marketing Director
Company: AkzoNobel
Country: NL
Kim has been in different marketing and commercial roles for more than 20 years. She started her career in Unilever where she worked almost 8 years in both local and regional marketing roles, mainly in ice cream and frozen foods. For Unilever she has been expatriated to Hamburg and Rome. Then she worked at Philips Kitchen Appliances in a regional marketing role (Eastern Europe & DACH) and a global consumer marketing role on breakthrough innovation. Before joining AkzoNobel, Kim worked at Pepsico Netherlands. There she was responsible for all marketing communication and services for the Benelux and has led the beverages category for several years. Since May 2015 she has joined AkzoNobel as marketing director for The Netherlands for both professional (B2B) and consumer (B2C) brands, also including customer marketing, digital marketing and ecommerce. After that she was the global marketing director for branding and communication (45+ markets). In her current role she is responsible for all commercial marketing for paints in EMEA.
She lives in Ouderkerk a/d Amstel (near Amsterdam) with her husband, 2 kids and a dog. She loves being outside and lovely foods and wines (her partner even has a shop selling these delicacies).
Name: Kristen Delphos
Job title: VP Comms & Amplification
Company: UL Research Institutes
Country: USA
Kristen Delphos is vice president of communications and public affairs for UL Research Institutes. In her current role, Kristen leads communications strategies that support both UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement’s growth and influence. Kristen's work also further establishes relationships with key external stakeholders — from policymakers and regulators around the world to academic partners and nongovernmental organizations — in in support of the enterprise mission of working for a safer world.
Before joining UL Research Institutes, Kristen served as vice president and head of global marketing and communications at Dematic, developing and implementing an integrated strategy to support brand, marketing, and communications for the company’s automation solutions.
She has more than 20 years of experience in developing and leading communications programs across the transportation, energy, manufacturing, and consumer sectors, having held global communications leadership roles at other Fortune-ranked companies, including ABB, GE Industrial Solutions, ADT, and UPS.
Kristen holds a B.A. in economics from the University of Massachusetts. She is a member of the Forbes Communications Council and was part of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s Inspire Atlanta class of 2020, where she earned the top fundraising achievement. Kristen is passionate about health and well-being and is certified as an integrative nutrition coach and in mindfulness-based stress reduction, including facilitating workplace mindfulness.
Name: Laura van Gestel
Job title: Director Brand Communications Media
Company: VodafoneZiggo
Country: NL
Laura Van Gestel is the Director of Brand Communications, Media, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at VodafoneZiggo. With a focus on making the Vodafone and Ziggo brands the most relevant and beloved to society and customers, Laura drives strategic branding initiatives. She leverages her expertise in communications and media to create impactful campaigns that resonate with consumers. As the head of CSR, Laura also leads efforts to drive positive change for the environment and ensure inclusivity in the rapid digitalization era.
Name: Maikel Reeder
Job title: Board Member
Company: Green Growth Suriname
Country: NL
Meet Maikel Reeder, a seasoned senior campaign strategist with a passion for driving positive change. While starting his career in the highly competitive horeca and entertainment world of Amsterdam, his life journey soon extended to filmmaking, communication strategy, and human behavior. Maikel has led successful commercial campaigns and election campaigns in diverse and challenging environments, such as Suriname and Jamaica. His knack for turning failing campaigns around showcases his strategic prowess and ability to navigate complex landscapes.
Maikel's expertise extends beyond traditional campaign strategies. As a certified foresight practitioner and trained Spiral Dynamics expert, he brings a unique futurist perspective to the table. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience spanning Europe, South America, and the Caribbean, Maikel has not only led ethno-marketing initiatives for international brands in Europe but has also crafted award-winning campaigns in Suriname.
Currently serving as the Board Treasurer of GreenGrowthSuriname.org, Maikel is deeply committed to sustainability and indigenous insights. His leadership role in this organization reflects his dedication to creating a better world beyond the realms of traditional campaign management.
His curiosity about the world and a genuine desire to understand human behavior set Maikel apart. His proven track record in crafting impactful communication strategies and commercial acumen positions him as an invaluable addition to any team that wants to do better.
Name: Maria Kypraiou
Job title: VP Marketing Europe
Company: Cartamundi
Country: UK
Maria Kypraiou is an MSc qualified Marketing and Insight senior professional with over twenty years of global experience with a track record of achievements in
highly competitive, fast paced and multicultural environments. She has significant experience with challenger/breakthrough brands and leading change across
organisations impacting both the top and the bottom line.
Maria is an empowering, energetic, and resilient leader. She has strong interpersonal, analytical, and influencing skills. Maria is very passionate about diversity and
inclusion in the workplace, having led significant improvements and policy changes in her workplace. She is also an active advocate of networking/mentoring initiatives and a Trustee in various charitable organisations.
She is currently the VP Marketing for Europe at Cartamundi and the Global Lead for the Luxury, Spirituality and Kings League Communities.
Maria lives in London with her husband and two kids, and in her free time she enjoys doing yoga, cooking and going to concerts and the theatre.
Name: Marissa Jarratt
Job title: EVP, Chief Marketing & Sustainability Officer
Company: 7-Eleven, Inc.
Country: USA
Marissa Jarratt is Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer at 7-Eleven, Inc. She leads the strategy to redefine convenience for today’s digitally savvy customer through creative strategy and media, cultural partnerships, customer insights, loyalty and personalization, data monetization and retail media, in-store marketing and corporate communications. Additionally, she is responsible for the company’s Government Affairs and ESG practices to accelerate 7-Eleven’s leadership in responsible and sustainable convenience.
Prior to joining 7-Eleven, Marissa held multiple senior marketing and general manager leadership positions at PepsiCo and Dean Foods Company. Marissa is a two-time honoree on the Forbes Global 50 Most Influential CMOs, is an AdAge 2022 Global Leading Woman, and was inducted into the Path to Purchase 2022 Hall of Fame.
Marissa is a life-long Texas Longhorn and holds a MBA, BBA-Finance and a BA-Spanish from The University of Texas at Austin. She and her family live in the Dallas area.
Name: Michael Armstrong
Job title: VP, Brand & Sponsorships
Company: TD Bank
Country: Canada
A passionate marketing leader currently leading the Brand, Corporate Sponsorship, Creative Services, and North American Brand Management teams with TD Bank Group. At TD, Michael has expanded his marketing and advertising expertise beyond Brand with experiences working directly with TD retail's day-to-day banking and payments teams, TD Wealth's offering in advice and direct investing, and TD Business Banking's small business banking and TD Auto Finance. Prior to TD, Michael has lead brand strategy and communications working with leading agencies on brands such as Kellogg's, VISA, Bell, Pillsbury and SC Johnson.
Name: Nica de Bloeme
Job title: CFO
Company: Patta
Country: NL
As the CFO/COO of streetwear brand Patta I am responsible for the part of the business side of the company and have been building Patta alongside the owners. I head several teams and am involved in Patta in a broad sense.
Patta is an independent black owned streetwear label with ambition to leave a legacy and a need to change the narrative. Patta successfully takes a different approach to business and views the world from a more diverse and sustainable perspective. I love the strategy part of the work, creating new paths for the next generation and I am proud of the team and the company we’ve built.
I come from Amsterdam and have a background in hospitality, fashion and media as a finance professional and entrepreneur.
Nurcin Kocoglu, with 25 years of experience leading companies in various industries, graduated from Marmara University in Communication Sciences in Istanbul. She furthered her education by completing her MSc in “Digital Strategy Management” at Grenoble Ecole de Management in France.
As the Assistant General Manager of Marketing and Brand Management at Boyner Retail Group, Kocoglu spearheads end-to-end marketing, brand management, customer experience, data analytics, and corporate communication functions in Boyner’s omni-channel organization.
Nurcin Kocoglu has been consistently recognized in Fortune Turkey Magazine’s “50 Most Effective CMOs” for three consecutive years and named one of Turkey’s “Top 50 Digital CMOs” for two years running. She is also the mother of ten-year-old twins and serves as an instructor in “Mindfulness” and “Sustainable Habits Design” at the Mindfulness Academy in Turkey.
Name: Ophélie Döbler
Job title: Chief Product Officer, Blue Cinema
Company: Blue Entertainment
Country: Germany
Ophélie Döbler, a Swiss national born on July 9, 1979, is a dynamic Leader renowned for her expertise in strategic omnichannel business development, brand cultivation, and team leadership. With 17 years of experience in general management, marketing, and sales, she has excelled in industries such as FMCG, Retail, Sporting Goods, and Entertainment. Ophélie specializes in strategic business development, encompassing ecommerce DTC and retail expansion, and possesses a remarkable talent for overseeing and collaborating with diverse teams.
Fluent in German, French, and English, Ophélie holds a master's degree in business administration from the University of St. Gallen. She is known for her strong personality, unwavering work ethic, learning adaptability, entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, can-do attitude, and pragmatism.
Currently, Ophélie is the Chief Officer of Blue Cinema, the largest cinema operator in German-speaking Switzerland, with over 80 theaters and 85,000 annual film screenings, as well as diverse entertainment services.
Previously, she held the role of Head of SportX, Bike World, and Brand Excellence at Migros Group, where she successfully repositioned SportX, expanded Bike World's physical presence, and achieved substantial ecommerce growth.
Prior to that, Ophélie served as the Global Brand Director for Jacobs Coffee at JDE Peets, managing a €1.2 billion business, and held various management and marketing positions at L'Oréal and Nestlé.
Beyond her career, Ophélie is deeply passionate about sports and embraces life with curiosity and an open mind. She remains committed to personal growth and continuous improvement, embodying her philosophy of becoming a better and happier version of herself.
Name: Philip Dowgierd
Job title: Global Brand Director
Company: EY
Country: UK
Philip has over 25 years experience in brand strategy and communications, comprised of ten years in advertising agencies, ten in digital agencies and five as a client. One of the first five graduate trainees at M&C Saatchi, he has developed strategies and creative work for Sainsbury’s, The Conservative Party, Foster’s, BBC and Skoda amongst others.
He has won multiple strategic and creative awards, including a Cannes Grand Prix for work on Tate Galleries.
Currently Global Brand Director at EY, he oversees the creative output of the firm, its media investment, brand architecture, visual identity and insights strategies.
Professionally he subscribes to reality over hope; as a QPR supporter he subscribes to hope over reality.
Name: Phoebe Barter
Job title: Group Brand & Sponsorship Director
Company: Aviva
Country:
Phoebe joined Aviva in January 2022 as the Group Brand and Sponsorship Director at Aviva, and is responsible for Aviva’s brand, brand advertising and sponsorships.
Before joining Aviva, Phoebe was at Barclays for eight years as Group Brand Director, responsible for the Barclays and Barclaycard brands. Prior to Barclays, Phoebe spent ten years at American Express in a succession of marketing, strategy and communications roles, in her native Sydney, Australia; in New York and in London. Her early career was spent in a marketing and sponsorship agency, working on the Visa International account and the iconic Rugby World Cup.
Phoebe sits on the Norwich Business School Advisory Board and volunteers as a motivational speaker with Speakers for Schools. She now calls London home, where she lives with her husband and two children.
Name: Rob van Griensven
Job title: Global Director Consumer Connections
Company: Heineken
Country: NL
Rob is an experienced marketing professional working at Heineken for the last 16 years.
He’s based in the company’s head office in Amsterdam, as Global Director Consumer Connections. In his role he leads all digital marketing (content, media, data, innovation) for the Heineken® brand globally. In previous roles, his responsibilities were centred around the brand activation of Heineken’s global sponsorships and as overall lead for media-sponsorships-CRM for HEINEKEN’s brand potfolio in the Netherlands.
Outside work, Rob is involved with the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw as a supervisory board member. He lives near Amsterdam with his wife and 4 daughters, spending free time on playing football, attending concerts and cooking.
Name: Scott Allen
Job title: WW Regional Marketing Leader
Company: Microsoft
Country: UK
I am passionate about connected sales and marketing, with the power of AI and Machine Learning enabling a data and insights driven mindset.
I spent 4 years as CMO within Microsoft UK where I was responsible for leading marketing for both our Consumer and Commercial businesses. I brought together two Consumer and Commercial teams and integrated them with my CMO "Marketing Services Centre of Excellence" - Social, Content, Events, Web, Paid Media and Analytics.
I now lead Regional Marketing & Execution (across Americas, Asia and EMEA) within the Microsoft HQ team that is driving global connected sales and marketing transformation for our large and fast growing commercial businesses. We deliver always-on, integrated customer engagement that brings together HQ and field marketing tactics into Global Customer Engagement Programs, that nurtures customers through the buying lifecycle. And creates intelligent marketing engagement signals that our sales teams can act on.
I am also focused on leading new strategic approaches and programs to further extend Microsoft’s global marketing capabilities and their impact.
Name: Shibani Potnis
Job title: M&A Integration Lead
Company: Campbell Soup Company
Country: USA
Shibani Potnis is a consumer-centric marketer with a proven track record of driving results for a diverse range of businesses, from high-visibility, high-growth brands to smaller, managed-for-profit businesses. Her expertise lies in business turnarounds, new product launches, brand strategy, activation campaigns, and effective P&L management. As an authentic leader, Shibani thrives on cultivating enduring relationships with cross-functional partners and building high-performing teams.
Shibani has spent 17 years at Campbell’s Soup company, currently leading the Marketing Integration for the pending acquisition of Sovos brands and serving as the Interim Head of Beverages. Her last role was leading the $1BN Goldfish business, where she oversaw the transformation of the brand from a ‘Mom and Kid’ offering to a culturally relevant, beloved Gen Z snack. Under her leadership, the brand received several industry accolades winning Lions, Effies, Clios and launched best in class innovation and Limited-edition strategies.
Shibani is a Buckeye earning her MBA from the Ohio State University.
Name: Sitare Sezgin
Job title: CEO
Company: TeknoSA
Country: Turkey
Sitare Sezgin is a highly accomplished professional with extensive experience in management consulting, strategic leadership, and corporate governance. She started her career at prestigious management consultancy companies, Bain & Company, and Boston Consulting Group.
In 2004, Sezgin joined Sabancı Group as the Strategy and Business Development Manager for the Retail Group after 6 years of consultancy experience. In 2009, she became the Senior VP of New Product and Channel Development at Akbank, a leading private bank within the Sabancı Group.
From 2011 to 2018, she successfully led Boyner Group's Back Up and Bofis Turizm. In 2018, she returned to Sabancı Group as the founding CEO and Board Member of AkÖde, a subsidiary of Akbank.
Sezgin's dedication to corporate governance is evident through her roles as an independent Board Member in organizations such as CarrefourSA, AvivaSA(currently AgeSA), and Doğtaş Mobilya.
Since September 2021, she has been the CEO of Teknosa, a leading Consumer Electronics retailer in Turkey. She also serves as a Board Member for the Health and Education Foundation, the Chain Stores Association, and Euronics, Europe's largest electronics purchasing group.
In addition to her professional achievements, Sezgin is a passionate advocate for gender equality, actively participating in various associations, like Women on Board Turkey Association, W-Tech and Yanındayız.
Name: Sorin Patilinet
Job title: Senior Director Marketing Insights
Company: Mars
Country: Belgium
A curious engineer decoding people choices and business models.
As the leader of the Global Marketing Effectiveness team at Mars, I have the privilege of working on some of the world's most beloved brands, including M&M's, Snickers, Skittles, Pedigree, Extra Gum, Royal Canin, and more. My team is dedicated to creating cutting-edge insight-generation solutions using the latest advancements in social sciences and tech, all while staying grounded in our deep understanding of human and pet behaviors.
At Mars, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve when it comes to marketing communications strategies and tactics. As a seasoned advisor, I'm always ready to engage in lively debates about the future of brands and advertising. I'm particularly passionate about innovative communication strategies, neuromarketing applications, and the evolution of retail.
As a Marketing Science enthusiast, I love sharing my insights and perspectives with the community. Whether you catch me at industry events or follow my "Engineering Marketing" blog online, I'm always eager to connect and engage with fellow professionals.
https://www.sorinp.com
Happily married to Felicia and proud father of Sebastian and Emma.
Name: Sri Widowati
Job title: VP Marketing Danone
Company: Danone
Country: Indonesia
With over 20 years leading successful businesses in Southeast Asia, I'm a passionate marketing, digital, and organizational transformation expert who thrives in complex, multinational environments. At Danone Indonesia, I oversee strategy, innovation, and execution for their iconic brands like Aqua, one of the world's largest bottled water brands, and local powerhouses like SGM and Bebelac in the Infant Nutrition category.
Beyond Danone, I leverage my expertise as an independent board member at CIMB Niaga, one of Indonesia's largest banks. Here, I guide and empower the management with my insights in consumer
behavior, digital transformation, and human capital development. As a natural change agent, I inspire, mobilize, and shape cultures. My leadership is fueled by a passion for people and their growth. My mission is to create a positive impact for consumers,
communities, and stakeholders through sustainable growth and transformation.
Personally, I am also a proud mother to two successful young professionals and an avid Pilates student who aspire to one day start my own studio.
Name: Srija Chatterjee
Job title: Global Marketing Director
Company: The Shed 28
Country: UAE
Srija Chatterjee is the Global Marketing Director at The Shed 28 (TS28), an outside-in marketing transformation company dedicated to helping organizations thrive in a conscience economy. As part of the TS28 team, for over 3 years, Srija was the Global Marketing Director for Dole, a company that believes everyone should have equal access to good nutrition, delivered in a positive and sustainable manner, where she championed the sustainability and creativity agenda through the marketing initiatives. She now works with large companies like Zespri and J&J to help make a positive impact to the world through sustainability and creativity.
Prior her association with TS28, Srija had worked in prominent marketing and communications companies, including notable stints at Marico, JWT and Lowe, with her last role being the Managing Director at Publicis Worldwide, India.
Srija professional philosophy is rooted in the recognition that in today’s world, it is imperative to understand the interdependence of profit and purpose. She passionately advocates for transformative solutions that work effectively at this intersection so that people and planet prosper together, and not at the cost of one another.
Name: Tebogo Motsepe
Job title: Executive Head: Marketing Strategy
Company: Nedbank
Country: South Africa
My name is Tebogo Motsepe, from Johannesburg South Africa. I am the Executive Head of Marketing Strategy at Nedbank, which is one of South Africa’s four largest banks. In my role, I lead four functional areas which are, Visual Identity and Brand Enablement, Brand Strategy, Governance, Customer Experience & Capabilities and Data Analytics, Insights, and Marketing Technology.
My duties include:
Strategic planning whereby I lead the development of Group Marketing’s 3-year plan which is a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with Nedbank’s overall goals and objectives.
I also oversee the creation of marketing campaigns.
Continuous monitoring and analysis of the performance of marketing initiatives, using data and metrics to make data-driven adjustments to the strategy.
Staying up to date with industry trends and emerging marketing technologies to ensure the marketing strategy remains innovative and effective.
Keeping a close eye on competitors' marketing activities and adjusting strategies as necessary to maintain a competitive edge.
Collaborating with other departments to ensure marketing efforts are aligned with broader business strategies.
I’m highly passionate about my profession and I’m keen to consistently evidence how marketing can play a vital role in enabling our organisation to achieve its commercial objectives. I am also excited about the role technology can play in enhancing marketing operations, from improving campaign effectiveness to accelerating speed to market.
Personally, I am a huge sports fan, and my favourite sports include, soccer, formula 1, and Basketball.
Vivi Hollertt is Vice President, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer at Nouryon. She is responsible for developing and overseeing Nouryon’s Global Sustainability agenda, including chairing its Global Sustainability Network. She also leads the company’s Global Communications function, which includes overseeing the company brand, internal communications, media relations, crisis communications, and digital communications.
Ms. Hollertt joined Nouryon and its predecessor company AkzoNobel in 2014. Prior to that, she worked for FleishmanHillard, a global communications agency, where she was a director for international accounts at several multinationals, including Royal Philips N.V. She was also a spokesperson for Heineken International.
Ms. Hollertt serves on the Executive Steering Committee of the Nouryon Women’s Network.
Ms. Hollertt graduated cum laude with a master’s degree in international communication management from The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, and a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Communication Management from the University of Applied Sciences in Utrecht, the Netherlands.
She has more than 25 years of experience
leading teams in the areas of strategic planning,
innovation and corporate communications in
global companies ranging from the mass
consumption sector to renewable energies
For four consecutive years (2013-2016) she was
considered one of the 100 most powerful women
in Mexico by Expansión magazine, and in 2016
she was awarded as one of the 15 Women to
Watch by AdAge and Adlatina.
Currently, as Vice President of Marketing at
Aeromexico, she leads the brand vision, with the
objective of generating actions with the best
corporate practices that position the airline as a
benchmark in the industry.
She is also an active member of the "Mentorship
board" of Endeavor, one of the 10 most important
startup incubators in Latin America, and is part of
the Advisory Board of more than five national
companies.
Name: Yan Wang
Job title: Vice President
Company: Shandong Weiqiao
Country: China
Ms. Yan WANG is currently the Vice President of Shandong Weiqiao Pioneering
Group Co., Ltd. She is also the Associate Professor at the School of Human Habitat
Sciences at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
Ms. Wang holds a bachelor’s double degree in Arts and Economics, a master’s
degree in Arts, and a Doctorate of Arts (PhD) in Aesthetics from Peking University. After her doctorate, she continued postdoctoral research at Beijing Normal University. Further, she was a Fellow at the Asia-Pacific Leadership Program at the East-West
Center in Honolulu.
Ms. Wang holds a bachelor’s double degree in Arts and Economics, a master’s
degree in Arts, and a Doctorate of Arts (PhD) in Aesthetics from Peking University. After her doctorate, she continued postdoctoral research at Beijing Normal University. Further, she was a Fellow at the Asia-Pacific Leadership Program at the East-West
Center in Honolulu.
