Koelbel - 468N
A consumer marketing specialist, Heather has over 20 years of experience in brand strategy, product development and management, and marketing communications.
As a Brand Manager at Kraft Foods, Heather worked on strategy development, advertising, financial management, consumer research and new product commercialization for iconic brands such as DiGiorno Pizza, Taco Bell Home Originals and Kraft Salad Dressing.
At Whole Foods Market, Heather served as the Senior Director of National Marketing where she established and an “internal creative agency” that designed and executed all national campaigns. She also developed the annual marketing plan, managed the integration of in-store and digital programs, formed key strategic partnerships with program like Top Chef and Farm Aid, collaborated with regional marketing teams, and developed the gift card program into a high growth, revenue generator. Her team formalized the Whole Foods Market brand standards and ensured they were clearly communicated and maintained.
During her tenure at Whole Foods Market, Heather also managed the Local Producer Loan Program, working directly with small entrepreneurs to help them grow their business within Whole Foods. She then served as Director of Whole Journeys, an experiential travel concept that enabled consumers to experience the culture of a country through its food.
Most recently, Heather was the lead Brand and Marketing strategist for the Fresh Ideas Group in Boulder, CO, which focuses on natural and organic food and products. She continues to build on her experience by consulting within the industry.
Heather’s passion for teaching allows her to share her experience with the wonderful MBA and undergraduate students at Leeds. She teaches Marketing Strategy, Marketing Management, Advertising and Promotions, and New Product Development. She also collaborated closely with the CESR team to establish the Natural & Organic Pathway, the first of its kind in the country, and continues to work with students interested in pursuing a career in the natural products industry.
In 2021, Heather received the MBA Teaching Excellence Award and in 2022 she was the recipient of the CESR Graduate Faculty Award.