Heather Hough

About Heather Hough

I’m a communications and content strategist who helps mission-driven organizations tell clear, compelling stories that spark action. With a background in marketing, writing, and stakeholder engagement, I specialize in translating complex ideas into accessible content from campaign copy and email flows to blog articles, brand messaging, and executive ghostwriting.Currently, I lead marketing and communications at Culture Refinery, a leadership development consultancy focused on transforming workplace culture. I manage full-funnel campaigns, write thought leadership content, and support client-facing programs.Alongside this work, I take on freelance copywriting and content strategy projects that align with my values, particularly those at the intersection of people, purpose, and systems change. Past work includes sustainability storytelling for global entrepreneurs, equity-centered digital campaigns, and communications for climate-focused nonprofits.What ties it all together is my belief that effective communication isn’t limited to what you say. It’s about how you listen, who you center, and the impact your message can create. Whether I’m building a marketing campaign or shaping a narrative, I bring curiosity, clarity, and care to every project.As a personal project, I also authored a children’s book rooted in leadership values, paired with a social-emotional learning curriculum designed to inspire our future leaders and young readers.Core strengths:→ Strategic messaging & brand voice→ Copywriting (email, blog, social, executive comms)→ Marketing campaign development→ Thought leadership & ghostwriting→ Values-driven storytelling→ Cross-sector communications (leadership, climate, nonprofit)→ Relationship Building, creating meaningful collaborations and partnerships→ Newly expanding skills in PRCore Values:→ Mission-driven purpose.→ Creativity and innovation.→ Lifelong learning and growth.→ Empathy and collaboration.→ Attention to detail and excellence.Let’s connect! Whether you\'re working toward a stronger team, a more just world, or a healthier planet, I’d love to collaborate on stories that support the change we all want to see.

Experience

1. Marketing Communications Associate

   Culture Refinery

   Jan 2025 — Present

   Plan, develop, and implement marketing and communications initiatives across digital, social media, email, and web platforms.• Support execution of Culture Refinery’s brand voice and positioning across programs and campaigns.• Create compelling, mission-aligned content that highlights leadership development, culture transformation, and team growth.• Monitor audience engagement, industry trends, and communication performance to inform strategy and storytelling.• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align messaging with program design, client engagement, and operational goals.• Manage press opportunities and speaker conference submissions to elevate brand visibility and thought leadership.• Lead development of marketing materials, campaign messaging, and content assets for flagship programs like Ready to Lead.

Education

• MiraCosta College

  Environmental Science

  2017 — 2020

• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sustainability Studies

• San Diego State University

  Sustainability Studies