Talent Champion – Katrina McGhee

Talent Champion Spotlight

2024 Talent Champion - Katrina McGhee

Katrina McGhee
Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
American Heart Association
Katrina McGhee, the executive vice president and chief marketing officer at the American Heart Association, is a best-selling author, award-winning podcast host and renowned speaker who has helped build and lead socially impactful nonprofit brands for over 25 years.
She is responsible for the AHA’s storytelling, marketing campaigns, media outreach, and community programs focused on equitable health and longer, healthier lives for all. McGhee’s energetic leadership style shines through as host of the Live Fierce podcast and in her best-selling book, “BE BOLD BE BRILLIANT BE YOU: Lessons from the C-Suite to Accelerate Your Career.”
McGhee previously served as executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Susan G. Komen for the Cure, CEO and founder of a learning academy, and as a strategic consultant and career coach to executives nationwide.

What prompted you to get involved with the AEF?

I love AEF’s commitment to ensuring our industry’s future leaders represent the diversity of our communities.

Why are you passionate about the future of the industry?

So many new career paths are opening in our industry that allow new and emerging leaders to marry multiple passions. Whether it’s a love of technology and creative concepting, or a knack for social media coupled with the competitive energy of sales, today’s marketing and advertising professionals can enjoy careers that span a multitude of disciplines that are valuable in the marketplace.

What is the best career advice you've ever received?

Be open to opportunities outside your comfort zone.

Why do you feel it is so important to inspire the next generation of diverse talent?

As a graduate of an HBCU, I know first-hand the amazing talent and ingenuity found among diverse communities. When it’s coupled with opportunity and mentorship, future leaders rise up to make a profound impact inside companies, and in their community. As a senior leader, I consider it a responsibility and a privilege to open doors for this next generation.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

My favorite part of my job is working with my incredibly talented and diverse team to lead American Heart into it’s second century of powerful mission impact.

What is the most important skill students should have before they begin their career?

A commitment to being a forever learner.

What advice would you give to students as they consider entering the industry?

Be curious, open, and unafraid to try new things. Who you are right now is ENOUGH to make a difference. The world needs your unique genius.

2024 Talent Champions

"Our future marketing and advertising leaders are not just looking for a job, they are looking for a meaningful career that will make a positive impact on society."
— Gord McLean, President and CEO at ANA Educational Foundation