Michael Hand

About Michael Hand

Award-Winning CMO - Growth-Focused Marketing Leader in CPG, Food/Beverage, Hospitality & SportsAward-winning Chief Marketing Officer and strategic brand leader with 20+ years of experience driving growth, engagement, and transformation across CPG, Food & Beverage, Hospitality, Real Estate, and Sports. I thrive at the intersection of creative vision and operational excellence, turning bold ideas into measurable business results.I’ve led the revitalization of legacy brands, launched digital-first campaigns, and built sponsorship and partnership platforms that deliver double-digit growth and industry recognition. My leadership style emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation; empowering teams to perform at their highest level.What sets me apart? A unique blend of data-driven decision making, cultural insight, and consumer empathy. Whether managing large portfolios, orchestrating national media strategies, or reimagining loyalty programs, I create sustainable impact and elevate the customer experience.I’m passionate about connecting with leaders, innovators, and changemakers who believe in the power of marketing to drive business transformation and positive societal change.Specialties: Executive Marketing Strategy, Brand Transformation, Digital & Social Engagement, Sponsorships & Partnerships, Team Development, Destination & Experience Marketing

Experience

1. Chief Marketing Officer

   World Food Championships Holdings

   Mar 2024 — Present

   Lead all marketing and communications strategy for the world’s largest culinary competition, driving brand awareness, revenue generation, and audience engagement. Oversee brand development, digital and social media, advertising, event planning, and public relations. Manage creative direction and promotional efforts for a global series of qualifying events culminating in an annual championship featuring 1,200+ competitors from 30+ countries. Also, direct marketing for ancillary programs including the World Championship Chili Cookoff, WFC Jr, Battle of the Branches, and national retail activation platform at Sam’s Club.

Education

• Colgate University

  Bachelor of Arts, Education

  1990 — 1994

• Michigan State University

  Coursework in Executive MBA Program

  2003 — 2004

Skills

• Strategy
• Marketing
• Brand Activation
• Advertising
• Presenter
• Brand Management
• Marketing Strategy
• Sponsorship
• Event Planning
• Social Media
• Sports Marketing
• Marketing Research
• Account Management
• Market Research
• Digital Media
• Promotions
• Strategic Partnerships
• Brand Development
• Integrated Marketing
• Team Leadership
• Customer Insight
• Integrated Marketing Communications Planning
• Marketing Communications
• Digital Strategy
• Strategic Planning
• Multimedia Marketing Communications
• Digital Marketing
• Relationship Marketing
• Market Planning
• Email Marketing