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Michael O'Hagan
Chief Strategy Officer at JOI
Michael O'Hagan is a seasoned digital media executive who is currently transitioning into the food industry while pursuing his passion for plant-based eating. With a background in strategy, marketing, and operations, Michael brings a wealth of experience to his new venture.
Michael holds an MBA in Design Strategy from the California College of the Arts and a BS in Management from St. John's University, The Peter J. Tobin College of Business. His educational background provides him with a solid foundation in business and design, allowing him to approach challenges from multiple perspectives.
Throughout his career, Michael has held key positions in various organizations, showcasing his versatility and expertise. He has served as the Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at JOI, VP of Operations at The Players' Tribune, and Executive Vice President of Operations & Strategy at SpinMedia, Inc., among other notable roles.
With a strong focus on business development, marketing, and operations, Michael has made significant contributions to the companies he has been a part of. His experience at FOX Sports, MOG, Inc., Yardbarker, Inc., and CNET Networks has honed his skills and leadership capabilities, making him a valuable asset in any setting.
Michael's decision to explore the food space aligns with his personal interest in plant-based eating. By combining his professional expertise with his passion for healthy living, he is embarking on a new journey that reflects his values and aspirations.
In his approach to this new chapter, Michael embraces each day as it comes, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to learn. His entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative nature have been instrumental in forming strong relationships with partners and friends in the food industry.
Overall, Michael O'Hagan's background as a digital media executive, coupled with his foray into the food space and commitment to plant-based eating, positions him as a versatile professional with a diverse skill set and a drive for innovation and sustainability.
Highlights
Earlier this month I submitted my 100th invoice to a client. I started this consulting thing with two clients and a mountain of imposter syndrome. Since then, I've worked with more than a dozen brands across a variety of verticals and it's been such a fun ride. No one client is alike and the projects keep me on my toes. I'm teaching and learning constantly and I love that. Feeling grateful I get to do this day in and day out with some amazing founders and friends.
Hello, LinkedIn friends! It’s been a minute, but a lot has been going on and it’s about time for a mega life update :) I can’t believe it’s been six months since all of this went down, but time flies…
In September, I left the city for the country to start a new chapter with my family (the rolling hills and a school on a farm for my kids were pretty hard to resist). With the move from Brooklyn to the Hudson Valley, I also ventured out on my own and I am now full-time consulting for CPG and DTC brands.
It’s been an amazing and rewarding 6 months to say the least and I’ve had the opportunity to work with some awesome brands and incredible founders.
For one, I'm thrilled to stay involved with Explorer Cold Brew and Cason Crane - we have so many exciting things coming in 2023 and I’m honored to be a part of this brand and all that we are doing.
I’ve also had the pleasure to collaborate with my longtime friend Athena Hewett and Monastery. Monastery is changing the luxury beauty game and it’s been so fun to work with a friend and the incredible brand she has built.
As I was deciding to make this leap, I discussed with so many friends and family and BIG high fives 🙌 to Cason for suggesting this crazy idea. To my dude Alex Rose for thoughtful conversations and advice on making the jump. To Caroline Wooldridge for sharing the pros and cons and listening to me and to Erica Pattni for the never ending support and opportunities. And to partners like Free Rain and Palma de Salus who have given me the chance to bring some value to their business as I get started on this path. Thank you 🙏
To date, my career has not really been a straight line and that’s ok. I spent 16+ years in digital media doing everything from advertising, marketing, and content operations and now the past 5 years in the CPG & DTC space...and it’s all weirdly coming together. Maybe? I don't know, but I guess I’lll find out!
