Leslie Forde

Work closely with clients on key marketing initiatives including: product marketing strategy, new product positioning, market and customer experience research, customer and community engagement programs, content development and distribution, analysis and optimization of current marketing efforts. Provide business and corporate development strategy and execution for clients, including: new market opportunity assessment and all aspects of partnership strategy.

Responsible for identifying strategic partnerships and new technologies that ensure ongoing product innovation and help expand international opportunities. Work closely with some of the world's largest brands to align the power of listening within online customer communities with their strategic business and marketing goals.

Managed sales and marketing for all retail and channel partnerships across products: consumer magazines, subscriber Web sites, retail books, and sponsorship of the public TV show, ‘America’s Test Kitchen.’ Managed and mentored team (4 full time people, 2 consultants.)

Founded all aspects of the marketing and business development efforts during five year tenure for provider of on-line content subscriptions & technology, for consumers and businesses. Moved to London and established company initiatives in Europe, and the Asia Pacific, including: distribution partnerships, sales, marketing, publisher relations/content licensing, and client relationship management.

Managed all stages of the product life cycle, from concept to successful product launch, for new consumer product line within an entrepreneurial division of Xerox. Managed cross-functional work teams to bring new products to market. Translated requirements from customers into innovative product features and packaging. Managed advertising, direct-response, and PR efforts to build brand and category awareness. Launched Web sales and marketing strategy. P&L responsibility.

Managed all aspects of disposable contact lens product line, new product development, and sports marketing sponsorships (Olympics and the National Basketball Association.) Forecasted product sales, developed launch material, established consumer promotions, and pricing. Worked with cross-functional teams and customers to bring high quality products to the marketplace. Created, managed and measured the effectiveness of consumer and trade marketing programs to increase sales, brand recognition and share.