About Me

I spent a decade in healthcare, telling stories that mattered: spotlighting patient triumphs, decoding breakthrough research, and turning complexity into clarity. It was purpose-driven work, and I loved it.

After earning my MBA, I joined a global consulting firm where I marketed to C-suite leaders at Fortune 500 companies. Over 5 years, I helped shape brand strategy across industries including health, sustainability, automotive, and more. In my most recent role, I oversaw global marketing for our strategic operations practice, bringing cohesion to campaigns across borders. I guided the marketing strategy behind more than 20 events annually and led content across digital platforms, newsletters, and thought leadership.

It was big-picture, high-impact work. But somewhere along the way, I realized I missed the heart of it all: making a difference.

Now, I’m reclaiming my joy. I launched a bakery, turning years of sharing cookies with coworkers into a growing business. I’m a lifelong student, always curious, always learning. I volunteer at the local animal shelter. And I’m focused on driving impact with brands that have real meaning and purpose.

Take a look at my work and let’s chat.

Impactful Narratives

"Vanessa has the ability to shape complex ideas into impactful narratives across regions. From driving cross-practice thought leadership to aligning senior stakeholders across markets, she brought clarity, creativity, and consistency to everything she did. What stood out most was her global mindset; she instinctively understood how to localize content without losing the core message."

Sumedha BhowmickCampaign Specialist

Strategic Mindset

"Vanessa excelled at translating complex consulting concepts into compelling narratives that resonated with diverse global audiences. During challenging periods, her transparent communication style proved invaluable. She brings the strategic mindset and exceptional skills that drive real business results."

Christy LainoChief of Staff, Strategic Operations

Helping Hand

"What stood out most about Vanessa was her willingness to always lend a helping hand and mentor others, regardless of her own busy schedule. Her breadth of experience and knowledge made her a valuable resource to her colleagues at all levels. She not only excelled in her own responsibilities but also took the time to share her expertise and support the development of those around her."

Heather Clayberg Senior Marketing Specialist

My Work

I’ve written more than 250 articles in healthcare, telling real stories meant to offer hope, comfort, and the courage to keep going. My storytelling roots started at a community hospital and grew through roles at a major academic health system and, eventually, a global consulting firm.

And because we marketers wear many hats, I’m also comfortable leading video creation. At one healthcare system, I wrote, produced, and prepped guests for episodes on topics like Alzheimer’s caregiving and healthy aging. At Kearney, I added video to my digital campaign toolkit, using it to bring complex ideas to life across platforms.

Regardless of the medium, my approach is always intentional. What’s the story? Why does it matter? Whether through a written piece or a camera lens, the goal is the same: connect, resonate, and help someone feel a little less alone.

Here are a few pieces I’m proud of. Click on the images to read more.

Medical Research Article
Medical Research Article
Health Consumer Article
Infographic
Integrated Marketing Campaign
Integrated Marketing Campaign

Case Study: Strategic Storytelling in Action

I believe in strategic storytelling. No matter the vehicle—digital marketing, thought leadership, videos, or web content—the key question is always what message are you delivering and does it achieve your business goals?

This mindset guided one of my most successful projects, a global supply chain conference that brought together teams across regions, practices, and functions. Clear and consistent messaging was essential. Our team worked with a client to present our work on the main stage, hosted targeted dinners, and created an engaging booth experience with brand-aligned visuals, videos, and demos. On the marketing side, I led a tailored digital campaign, including a landing page and personalized one-to-one outreach. The effort sparked more than 800 conversations and contributed to more than $1 million in sales. This project underscored my belief in the importance of aligning messaging and stakeholder management to ensure we showcase our brand in the most strategic light possible.

I apply the same approach through newsletters and thought leadership as well. Our external newsletter, Take 5, focuses on timely topics such as sustainability, technology, and geopolitics, delivering relevant insights that cut through the noise for a busy, strategic audience. What began as a newsletter evolved into a trusted resource for more than 5,000 VPs and C-suite leaders, sparking dialogue and reinforcing thought leadership. This experience reinforced that storytelling is more than communication. It is a strategic asset that unifies messaging and drives engagement across complex organizations.

Though these examples differ in format, one a high-profile event and the other a strategic communications channel, the principle remains the same. Strategic storytelling connects, inspires, and drives real business results.

Let's Connect

Want to learn more? Let’s grab a coffee and chat. Feel free to reach out anytime on LinkedIn.