Mel Safford

Mel Safford: Co-Founder and Partner at Yes Collective Creative Agency

Mel Safford is a seasoned professional with experience in various fields, including television production, special event planning, marketing, and creative writing. She currently serves as the Co-Founder and Partner at Yes Collective Creative Agency, an agile, full-service creative agency.1

Prior to her current role, Safford held several notable positions:

• VP, Global Talent, Programming & Brand Experience at WW (formerly Weight Watchers) from February 2019 to May 2022134
• Director of Booking and The Co-op at Chicago Ideas from April 2015 to February 20191
• Booking celebrity and newsmaker interviews for features on OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network and Oprah.com at Harpo Studios1

Safford is known for her ability to curate stage programming, speakers, and community activations for events like Chicago Ideas Week.2 She has also worked as a producer for A Drink With and DAYBREAKER.1

In her role at WW, Safford was involved in the company's transformation and the development of their strategic vision to make wellness accessible to all.1 She also played a role in Oprah Winfrey's advocacy for WW and the creation of immersive new programming and experience opportunities.1

Safford is inspired by kindness, people watching, belly laughs, early mornings, late nights, tight deadlines, loud music, and her mother.1 She is a connector at heart, searching for experiences and content to spark curiosity and add value.1