Vanessa Jarrad is a proud generalist marketer and account leader, with over a decade of experience spanning agency, brand side, and entrepreneurial roles. From global giants like A.S.Watson to scale ups like Revolut, to working agency side within IPG and now Publicis, Vanessa has built a career at the intersection of creative, marketing strategy, and media.
Currently, Vanessa is a Business Director at Starcom, where she leads the Global Client Leadership team for The LEGO Group. Overseeing the account success across 56 markets, driving transformation, operational excellence and ensuring strategy lands in market. Known for her transparent and hands-on leadership style, Vanessa builds empowered, high-performing teams and ensures that bold global visions translate into local impact.
Outside of her day job, Vanessa is the founder of the Speak Easy Society – a platform helping people overcome fear of public speaking and find their voice and a passionate yoga teacher. Born from her personal journey and a drive to empower others, the initiative was inspired by her Future 100 award-winning manifesto, "Empowering Voices." It’s a mission that reflects her core belief: confidence can be built, and every voice deserves to be heard. She also uses yoga to supporting people working in fast pace corporate careers in reducing stress and reconnecting with themselves through movement and mindfulness. Her holistic approach to confidence and wellbeing complements her work in both media and speaking coaching.
Proud to be part of the Future of Work panel, Vanessa brings a strong perspective on people first leadership, culture building, and the evolving role of soft skills in business. She is especially passionate about supporting junior talent entering the industry and shaping workplaces where everyone can speak up, thrive, and lead.