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Kelly Hawkinson
Marketing and Sales Director - DSM Bio-based Products and Services
Professional Background
Kelly Hawkinson is an accomplished Business Unit Marketing Manager with an extensive career spanning multiple roles in the chemical industry, particularly with DSM, a global leader in bio-based products and services. Her trajectory within the industrial sector highlights her capability to navigate through various marketing and communication facets effectively, driving innovation and growth. Kelly's proficiency in marketing management is distinguished by her comprehensive understanding of both the technical and commercial aspects of the field, enabling her to deliver impactful strategies that resonate in the marketplace.
In her current position as the Marketing and Sales Director for North America at DSM Bio-based Products and Services, Kelly utilizes her vast knowledge and experience to oversee and enhance marketing strategies that align with the company’s vision of maximizing sustainability through advanced biotechnologies. Her role demands not only exemplary leadership but also an agile adaptation to ever-evolving market trends and customer needs.
Previously, Kelly held several influential positions at DSM Functional Materials, including Business Unit Marketing and Communications Manager, where she was tasked with spearheading communication initiatives that bridged the gap between the company’s innovative advancements and their market applications. Her role as Global Marketing Manager covered crucial products like Somos® and Additive Manufacturing (AM), where she successfully increased product visibility and engagement across various segments.
Education and Achievements
Kelly's educational foundation lays a strong groundwork for her successful career. She graduated from the University of St. Francis, where she honed her expertise in business and marketing principles, further complemented by studies at Illinois Institute of Technology and North Central College. This diverse educational background not only equipped her with technical knowledge but also fostered her analytical and strategic thinking skills, essential for effective management within the fast-paced chemicals market.
Throughout her career, Kelly has consistently demonstrated an ability to innovate and lead. One of her notable achievements includes her work as a Senior Marketing Communications Specialist where she excelled in developing content strategies that significantly enhanced brand positioning for DSM's Functional Materials. Her tenure included the pivotal role of Global Product Manager for Fiber Optic Materials, where her technical expertise in thermoplastics and biotechnology proved instrumental in the product development cycle and market introduction, thereby solidifying her reputation as a formidable expert in her field.
Notable Contributions
Beyond her managerial roles, Kelly has contributed to various organizational initiatives aimed at increasing collaboration within the industry. Her background as an R&D Chemist for Fiber Optic Materials gives her a unique perspective on product development processes, which enriches her marketing strategies. This technical expertise allows her to communicate effectively with both clients and technical teams, ensuring that products meet market demands and regulatory standards while staying true to the innovative ideals that DSM represents.
Skills and Expertise
Kelly’s skill set encompasses Marketing Management, Innovation Management, Thermoplastics, and Biotechnology, demonstrating her versatility and capability to drive projects from conception through to market sustainability. Her strong media and communication experience positions her as a leader in the marketing sector, particularly in the highly technical domain of chemicals. Furthermore, Kelly is adept at leveraging market research to inform business decisions, guiding her teams with insights that translate into competitive advantages. As a specialist in strategic marketing communications, she is well-versed in creating impactful narratives that resonate with target audiences across various platforms.
Achievements
- Leadership in Sustainability: As Marketing and Sales Director at DSM Bio-based Products and Services, Kelly has championed initiatives that promote sustainability through bio-based innovations, playing a crucial role in DSM's mission to create a better world.
- Innovative Strategies Implementation: In her previous roles, including Global Marketing Manager and BU Marketing & Communications Manager, she has successfully implemented innovative marketing strategies that have premier market products, achieving increased engagement and sales growth.
- Development of Marketing Narratives: Kelly's expertise in crafting compelling content has enhanced brand visibility and established DSM's reputation as an innovative market leader.
- Cross-Functional Team Collaboration: As a former R&D Chemist, Kelly's ability to collaborate effectively with technical teams has accelerated product development timelines and improved time-to-market for new technologies.
Conclusion
In summary, Kelly Hawkinson embodies the qualities of a forward-thinking business unit marketing leader with a rich background in the chemicals industry. With her impressive educational credentials and a wealth of experience in various managerial roles at DSM, she continues to help shape the industry's future while driving sustainable innovation in bio-based products.
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