Heidi Hackemer

Brand Strategist

Heidi Hackemer is a prominent figure in the world of brand strategy and innovation. She is the founder of zwolf strategy, a company that focuses on solving complex challenges for senior leaders using brand as a lens.1 2

Career Highlights

Entrepreneurship and Leadership: Heidi has founded multiple successful ventures, including:

zwolf strategy (February 2019 - August 2020)
Wolf & Wilhelmine (January 2014 - December 2018)
The Creative Alliance (Co-founder, October 2015 - July 2017)

Corporate Experience: She has held significant positions in major organizations:

Executive Director of Oatly Futures Lab (January 2022 - Present)
Executive Creative Director, North America at Oatly (September 2020 - March 2022)
VP of Engagement at Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (August 2017 - September 2018)
Director of Brand at Google's Advanced Technology and Projects group (November 2013 - March 2014)

Approach and Philosophy

Heidi is known for her:

Innovative thinking and ability to challenge conventional systems
Focus on equity, justice, and regeneration in her work
Skill in connecting ideas and people to drive change
Emphasis on brand purpose and audience understanding

She has been described as a "provocateur and problem solver" who excels in disruptive environments and is comfortable questioning and rebuilding old conventions.1

Notable Clients and Projects

Heidi has worked with numerous high-profile clients, including:

Nike
Google
Unilever
lululemon
Airbus
Oatly

She has also consulted with the Obama White House and volunteered on the Biden Transition team.1

Education and Mentorship

Heidi is passionate about educating future innovators and is a sought-after mentor. She has:

Created the COHORT Fellows program to support emerging BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ strategy talent
Taught at institutions like VCU Brandcenter and Miami Ad School
Been an active speaker on various platforms1

Heidi Hackemer's career is marked by her ability to view systems from a high level, identify necessary changes, and create action plans to implement those changes. Her work consistently focuses on making a positive impact and leaving the world better than she found it.1