Winner: Jon Harris
Chief Communications Officer, Hillshire Brands
In January 2012, when the Sara Lee Corporation separated into two publicly held companies, Jon Harris and his team at Hillshire Brands provided a cohesive message to consumers while promoting confidence in the health and new direction of the organization’s leadership.
Amid rumors swirling about leveraged buyout attempts and corporate takeovers, Harris created the Inaugural Investor Day. The event introduced investors to the organization’s new business strategy: to unleash the potential of the new North American Business and its iconic brands through new product development, marketing investment and disciplined cost control.
Through it all, Harris successfully maintained dialogue with the company's core audiences. Internally, he created and executed a global strategy with proven tactics, including a multi-language weekly video series and senior leader team updates. His efforts prepared the company for the spin-off, empowered leaders to communicate key messages and brought global employees together for the journey. —Jamar Hudson
Honorable Mentions:
John Forrest Ales, Senior Director, Global Brand Public Relations, Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Lisa Baxt, Senior Communications Manager, Nikon
Dan Macuga, Chief Communications Officer, USANA
Karen Tillman, Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, Cisco