Kristen Scalise
CPG Brand Marketing & Strategy / Event Producer
Philadelphia, PA / New York City, NY
instagram @kristencatparty
Q What do you do?
“I work with CPG brands to develop authentic connections with their target audience, increase sales through meaningful moments on social, on shelf, at events, and more. ”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I started out as a brand ambassador and ended up as a Field Marketing Manager - events and sampling were my main tools. I then moved my way into account management and strategy at creative agencies working on everything from global brand redesigns, product innovation, national trade marketing programs and more. I circled back to my ‘roots’ where I launched Old Blue Last Beer - a VICE Media and Anheuser Busch (failed) collab brand in NYC, went on to work on National Trade Marketing Strategy for ABI’s craft beer portfolio, and then launched JunedShine Hard Kombucha on the East Coast. Pandemic hit, I got a crash course in Spotify and Gorgias via Juneshine’s turn towards DTC and then developed United Sodas of America’s entire customer engagement process and program.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I stand out in my field because I am relentlessly authentic and true to my values. I genuinely connect with brand partners, content creators and customers. I am passionate about things like sustainability and authenticity. I have a knack for brand launches and start ups.
Q What are you working on right now?
I am currently working on a sitcom treatment and script of a tv show about my life growing up with my dad who was... a character to say the least (no spoilers!). Anyone want to collab?
Q What’s your style?
My style is no BS east coast grit… but with a smile. I always say the only way to not be cool is to *try* and be cool. I love anyone and anything that believes in and loves what they do and do it at 110%.
I co-ran a skate magazine for people with marginalized genders and identities called Quell Skateboarding. We had a print magazine, hosted events and clinics, and a podcast. My style is justice driven and community focused. There are so many people doing amazing stuff and driving real social change out there and I love when I get the opportunity to raise these people up and really let them show the world what they are made of and what they are doing.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Most of my ‘professional’ experience is in CPG marketing, especially in beer/wine/spirits, however, I’d love to focus more on community projects and social/climate justice initiatives. Maybe a blend of all of the above?
Q What is frustrating you right now?
I have been applying for and interviewing for full time jobs for two years! I don’t have the privilege of having a lot of savings or parents to provide a safety net. Bartending full time to pay the bills makes it hard to work on marketing to stay relevant in the job market. Re-doing my resume keeps landing at the bottom of my to-do list.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I would hire them to take care of my 8 month old puppy while I am home so I can focus on re-doing my resume and apply for jobs and look for freelance work etc…
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I could go back to college and tell myself that nothing is perfect and most good things come with hard work, clear communication and sometimes hard conversations. I would also tell myself to find a good therapist and start meditating immediately. Also, get a skateboard and practice every day.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I would love to talk to an expert to learn more about human behavior and how to build strong communities of people who care for each other instead of competing with each other.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I am primarily focused on finding a full time, salary position as a Brand/Brand Marketing Manager.
I am also open to and looking for consulting and freelance opportunities for CPG Start Ups, Community Action opportunities and media or writing contribution opportunities.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client would be a social & climate justice focused CPG brand looking for someone to develop a field marketing and engagement program that lifts people up, builds brand awareness and of course sells product. Working for B Lab or a B Corp is a major goal for me.
Q What is your rate?
My standard hourly rate is $60/hr. However, working with startups I know that budgets are tight and I am willing to work on a project basis.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
The most appreciated way to talk to me about working together would be to send me an email with a brief intro to the project and what you would like for me to accomplish. Ideally, you’ll be able to tell me what kind of timeline and budget you have.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Julia Speller
Abbie Daniels
Melvin Mescudi
Cheylene ‘Shark Eye’ Tattersall
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Read, meditate, run and journal.
This member profile was originally published in December 2022.