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Claire Whitehead
Freelance Customer Insight & Strategic Planning Consultant
Professional Background
Claire Whitehead is a highly accomplished and commercially savvy strategic marketer with a remarkable career trajectory across various industries, including hospitality, tourism, eCommerce, charity, and professional services. Her expertise encompasses a range of roles from permanent positions to interim and project-based consulting, showcasing her versatility and adaptability in a constantly evolving marketing landscape. Claire's experience not only highlights her ability to deliver exceptional customer experiences but also reflects her dedication to empowering teams through effective communication and sustainable strategies.
Claire’s most notable roles include her tenure at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) as the Head of Global Brand & Marketing Strategy, where she was instrumental in shaping the brand identity and marketing initiatives that positioned IHG as a leader in the hospitality sector. Her strategic prowess in brand and marketing development is further exemplified through her roles at eBay, where she served as both the Customer & Brand Development Manager and Internet Marketing Manager, significantly enhancing user engagement and brand loyalty.
Her journey also includes impactful positions such as the Interim Head of Marketing & Communications at St Aubyn Estates, where she quickly adapted to the specific challenges of the estate and devised effective marketing strategies. As an independent consultant at fly higher, she has provided invaluable insights and direction to a range of clients, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs. Claire’s clients benefit from her strategic mindset and her comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, making her a sought-after consultant in the field.
Education and Achievements
Claire's academic excellence is underscored by her First-Class Honours degree in Natural Sciences (Physics) from the prestigious University of Cambridge. This strong educational foundation has equipped her with analytical thinking skills and a scientific approach that she applies in her marketing strategies. Prior to her studies at Cambridge, she attended Arnold School in Blackpool, where she laid the groundwork for her future academic and professional success.
In 2013, Claire was recognized by LinkedIn as the Most Engaged European Female Marketer, a testament to her influence and commitment to the marketing profession. This accolade reflects her proactive engagement with peers, industry trends, and her ability to connect and inspire others within her field.
Achievements
Throughout her extensive career, Claire has achieved numerous milestones that showcase her dedication and contributions to the marketing landscape. Her roles with respected brands such as Gumtree.com have solidified her reputation for enhancing customer experiences and engaging brand communications. Additionally, her coaching qualifications as a trained Coach and NLP Master Practitioner enable Claire to nurture talent and cultivate high-performing teams, a skill that is increasingly valued in today's collaborative work environments.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Claire is deeply passionate about personal pursuits that enrich her life beyond the boardroom. She enjoys property development, travel, and staying active through tennis and paddle boarding. Claire is also an advocate for mental health and well-being practices, regularly engaging in yoga and participating in her local chamber choir. A devoted family person, she cherishes outdoor explorations with her dog, often enjoying the scenic beauty of the coast and countryside.
In conclusion, Claire Whitehead exemplifies the ideal balance of strategic marketing expertise and personal passion. Her journey reflects an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful customer interactions and nurturing talent within teams. For those interested in engaging Claire for project work or to learn more about her professional journey, she welcomes conversations via her email at [email protected].
