Josh Blacksmith

Senior Director - Global Consumer Relationships and Engagement at Kimberly-Clark & Board Observer at Thinx Inc.

Josh Blacksmith is the Senior Director of Global Consumer Relationships and Engagement at Kimberly-Clark, a position he has held since April 2019. He has over 20 years of experience in integrated marketing, digital transformation, and brand-building, focusing on enhancing consumer relationships through data-driven strategies.

Professional Background

Before joining Kimberly-Clark, Blacksmith served as the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) at FCB Chicago. In this role, he oversaw global CRM and omnichannel marketing for major clients such as Toyota, Lexus, and Anheuser-Busch. His extensive experience also includes leadership roles at various marketing agencies where he managed performance marketing and digital programs for notable brands like Kellogg’s and Kraft Heinz.1 2

Contributions at Kimberly-Clark

At Kimberly-Clark, Blacksmith has been instrumental in developing a consumer data strategy that enhances the company's ability to engage directly with consumers. He emphasizes the importance of zero and first-party data to build meaningful relationships with consumers, shifting the company's focus from traditional retail relationships to direct consumer engagement. His efforts have led to the introduction of a new global marketing model aimed at maximizing the return on investment for consumer interactions.1 2 4

Recognition and Leadership

Blacksmith is recognized as a leader in his field, having received several accolades including the 2021 Charles S Downs Response Marketer of the Year by the Chicago Association of Direct Marketing. He is also involved in professional organizations, serving as President-Elect for the American Marketing Association in Chicago.1 3

Education

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising from Iowa State University and an MBA from the University of Iowa.1

Overall, Josh Blacksmith's leadership at Kimberly-Clark reflects a commitment to leveraging data and technology to foster deeper consumer connections and drive business growth.