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Melanie Wilhoite draws on more than 30 years’ experience in PR, integrated marketing, brand management, journalism, and business ownership to deliver effective marketing strategies rooted in sound business principles. As Senior Director, Strategy, she works across sustainable living and technology practices to build integrated cross-channel programs that strengthen brand perception and generate ROI.

Melanie started her PR career in couture fashion in San Francisco before serving a variety of CPG clients at Edelman Los Angeles. She went on to co-found boutique Seattle-based PR agency WHaM Communications, became General Manager of Edelman’s Seattle office, then Western Region head of Edelman’s creative boutique Ruth: Brands + Experiences. She served as Director, Marketing & Brand Management at Premera Blue Cross/Blue Shield of WA, OR and AK before owning and operating her own powersports dealership in Central Washington State. She was a co-founder of Seattle PR firm Action Mary until it merged with Kiterocket in 2023. She is experienced in B2B, B2C, and B2B2C in consumer, consumer tech, healthcare and more. She holds an M.B.A. from the University of Washington and a B.A. in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley.

Q&A

Within Kiterocket, what are you known for?

What is your proudest career moment or accomplishment to date?

I can list large clients and programs I’ve worked on, but honestly, I’m most proud that I’ve owned four different businesses that created opportunity for countless employees to learn, grow, and thrive in their careers.

What is it you love about your work?

I am perpetually fascinated by the puzzle of how to build brands that appeal to people, and I love putting together programs that drive consumers to take action that builds business.

How would your colleagues describe you in three words?

Practical, no-nonsense, adventurous.

What inspires you to get up every morning?

I’m always inspired by the possibility each day offers. I never really know exactly what my days will hold. Whether it’s spotting a new bird in the yard, planning travel to new places, making a new recipe, or learning about new subject matter for a client project, possibilities are endless. That’s what keeps things interesting for me.