Karen Lechner

Boulder, CO
My focus is to lead client business transformation engagements via consultative selling. I create ROI and drive business solutions which positively impact my clients' bottom line.

Significant accomplishments to date include:

☑ Top IBM results generator and winner of the “Excellence in Procurement Award” for Q4 2015 and 2016, and the “ACE Award” for 2013.

☑ Secured a client data partner, improving market penetration and saving $7M in 3 years.

☑ Bartered to offload $7M in excess of obsolete inventory in exchange for client media exposure.

☑ Saved $28M in marketing spend within 1 year by implementing a holistic marketing view; noted for being the largest 2016 savings secured by an IBM Marketing Procurement Consultant.

☑ Secured a transparent media buying and planning agency through a rigorous RFP process; helped client understand and maximize media channel attribution, a previously unattainable goal.

Provided budget and team oversight for a company focused on providing consumers with a candid snapshot of how elected officials were fulfilling promises.

Worked on the Editorial Board led by Carl Bernstein, and successfully captured an exclusive MSNBC sponsorship with Campaign 2000 Election Coverage, resulting in 10% improved site registration in less than 1 month.

Gained traction for an IPO company serving as an unbiased rating platform for consumer-oriented websites. Provided market research and market segmentation, investor relations, messaging, and brand awareness to maximize shareholder value.

» Increased online traffic by 39% through compelling B2B and B2C offerings.

Created 30 marketing and branding programs for Dannon to complement public relations campaigns through cause-related marketing initiatives.

Responsible for full promotional account management and the development of an effective National Kids Program for the Kraft Heinz company. Created and implemented highly visible co-marketing programs with top retailers on the east coast.

Responsible for developing innovative and engaging marketing programs for Boston Market’s national and local philanthropic initiatives. Managed large PR and philanthropy budgets and established and cultivated strategic alliances to gain positive traction throughout the country.

Specific achievements include:

⇨ Created a brand new Major League Baseball and National Hockey League program called “Saving Games and Saving Lives” which provided donations to the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization when games were saved. Created significant media attention and effectively established player partnerships without spending extra money for player appearances.

⇨ Developed product launch media coverage for Extreme Carver Sandwiches and the Boston Market Kid’s Meal Program within 1 month; additionally conceived, negotiated, and secured exclusive sponsorship of Easter at the White House with extensive media visibility.