Talent Champion – Drew Mitchell

Talent Champion Spotlight

2024 Talent Champion - Drew Mitchell

Drew Mitchell
Senior Vice President
Edelman

Drew Mitchell is a Senior Vice President in Edelman’s Brand Purpose practice and the U.S. Lead for Edelman’s Gen-Z Lab. Based in New York, Drew is a brand strategist and purpose veteran with experience working for some of the world’s most recognized brands. With a deep understanding of pop culture and nuanced social issues, he helps clients identify what they stand for, what change they want to create in the world and the creative ways they can provoke conversation and curiosity from target audiences and communities.

Most recently, Drew was an Executive in the Social Impact group at CAA where he worked with clients on impact programs and cultural partnerships — including SC Johnson, McDonald’s, UBS, Aspiration, and the American Red Cross.

Drew writes semi-frequently on the role of brands in society and their role in creating a better world through advocacy, impact, sustainability, and cultural relevance.

A native of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Drew began his career at Guthrie/Mayes Public Relations in Louisville before his first stint at Edelman…followed by roles at OBERLAND and BCW. Notable previous clients include purpose and corporate brand efforts for Vaseline, Colgate-Palmolive, Tom’s of Maine, Frito-Lay, Southwest Airlines, Uber, Home Depot, Heifer International, Suave, Lambda Legal and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

What makes you passionate about the future of the marketing industry?

Even in this era of tech-anxiety and uncertainty around AI’s impact on the workforce, I’m deeply optimistic. I believe today’s practitioners — and the next generation of creative leaders — will push storytelling in new directions, unlocking more imaginative ways to connect with the world and create impact at the same time.

What is the most impactful career advice you've ever received?

No one will ever care about your career as much as you do. Build relationships with allies who will champion you — but never forget that you have to be your own loudest and most consistent advocate.

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

Curiosity and critical thinking are non-negotiable. Always ask, “Why?” and “What’s the bigger picture?” Keep learning — not just about your tasks, but about the context around them. Understanding why your work matters is what makes you invaluable.

What advice would you give to students who hope to make a meaningful impact as they enter the industry?

Don’t wait for doors to open — build your own. If you spot a problem, a gap, or a new idea, act on it. The most meaningful impact often begins when someone decides not to wait for an invitation.

2025 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