Nice to meet you,
I’m Kate Smiley (Rodgers).
I'm a passionate brand storyteller and marketing leader who transforms organizations—from agile startups to Fortune 500 companies—by creating bold media campaigns and memorable experiences that drive growth and captivate audiences.
As Global Employer Brand Leader at GE HealthCare, I create business value by connecting 53,000 colleagues' stories to our $19.6B healthcare innovation mission. My focus is elevating GE HealthCare's reputation as a premier talent destination while aligning our employer brand with our newly independent identity, mission, and culture. Previously, as Global Brand Media Director, I spearheaded creative media strategies and led the brand media strategy for GE HealthCare's historic spin-off, including breakthrough campaigns like the New York Times takeover and "Care that Can."
My career spans leadership roles across healthcare, SaaS, and MedTech. Before my multiple positions at GE HealthCare, I led brand marketing for a SaaS company, where I executed their strategic rebrand, built their marketing organization from the ground up, and helped guide their successful $191M acquisition.
My scientific background shapes my unique approach to marketing, blending creative intuition with data-driven decision-making to craft strategies that deliver measurable results. This analytical creativity has become my signature in developing campaigns that resonate deeply with target audiences while achieving concrete business objectives.
Beyond the Boardroom
When I'm not orchestrating brand transformations, I run K.Rose Creative, a boutique agency that satisfies my entrepreneurial spirit. My creative energy also finds expression through teaching jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop dance classes throughout Wisconsin. As the eldest of five siblings, I treasure family time and embrace my role as a proud fur-mom to a playful golden retriever and a spirited tabby cat.
You'll likely find me unwinding in a yoga class, experiencing live music at concerts, uncovering hidden gems in new cities, exploring local boutiques and restaurants, or cheering enthusiastically for Wisconsin sports teams (Go Badgers!).
The Art & Science of Breakthrough Marketing
After years of leading brand transformations across Fortune 500 companies and startups, I've developed a clear vision of what makes marketing truly exceptional. Here's my philosophy:
Start with Truth
Great marketing begins with authenticity. Every compelling campaign starts with:
A singular, powerful brand truth that resonates deeply
Genuine understanding of audience needs and challenges
Clear connection between business goals and human impact
Strategic thinking that transcends budget constraints
Create with Purpose
Creativity must serve strategy while moving hearts and minds:
Break category conventions with bold, distinctive approaches
Tell human stories that drive measurable business outcomes
Solve complex challenges with elegant creative solutions
Maintain excellence across every touchpoint
Measure What Matters
Impact isn't just about metrics—it's about meaningful change:
Focus on quantifiable business transformation
Track genuine audience engagement and connection
Demonstrate clear return on marketing investment
Build sustainable, long-term brand value
Push Boundaries
Excellence demands calculated risks and continuous innovation:
Challenge established thinking in fresh ways
Embrace emerging technologies thoughtfully
Take smart risks that advance your brand
Elevate industry standards through example
The Bottom Line
Great marketing tells a complete story—from challenge to impact. It balances data with emotion, strategy with creativity, and bold thinking with measurable results. Most importantly, it creates authentic human connections that drive real business growth. That's my standard for breakthrough marketing, and it's what I deliver for every brand I touch.
Speaking Engagements & Expertise
I'm available for speaking opportunities and love connecting with others about:
Building compelling B2B brands that stand out in crowded markets
Developing storytelling and social media strategies that forge genuine connections
Navigating the transition from STEM to business leadership
Empowering women in STEM to advance their careers and build financial success
Let's connect and explore how we can create impact together.
