Class of 2023 • Women In Leadership

Meet Kara Lineal

Vice President of Marketing

Educational Background: UNC Charlotte Belk College of Business – MBA, Marketing Concentration

UW-Madison – Bachelor of Science in Art, Graphic Design Concentration

Professional Background: I have spent the last 20+ years with industry-leading consumer brands that serve global retailers and e-commerce storefronts. I have a proven track record developing brand-building campaigns, launching e-commerce channels, and delivering award-winning product launches. From Champion brand sport bags and Jockey brand bedding, to consumer electronics, mobile apps and smart home sensors, my career has spanned a broad range of product development, merchandising and digital marketing.

What brought you me Nelson-Jameson: The amazing culture and growth opportunity brought me to NJ. The NJ team is talented, driven and positioned for breakout growth in the market. I have been with the organization for 6 weeks.

Career Milestone: I was honored with a Daily Herald Business Ledger C-Suite of the Year Award. The mission of the C-Suite Awards is to honor executives who contribute to the success of the region’s economic growth and stability. Consideration is given to their company’s overall growth, commitment to good ethics, and involvement in the community. I garnered this prestigious recognition after spearheading an initiative to provide COVID-19 safety and informational signs in March of 2020, available free for download. Since pandemic-specific signage wasn’t previously available, the sign designs met an immediate need for a wide variety of organizations. I created more than 150+ designs for municipalities, food banks, businesses, housing authorities, medical facilities, and more, generating more than 650,000+ downloads in over 150 countries.

My motivation to be a leader: My motivation for stepping into leadership was my desire to make an impact and drive aggressive growth. I love bringing people together and aligning towards specific goals that help move the needle and make a difference for our brand, organization, customers and industry.

My role model: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Marie Tharp, Frida Kahlo—women who were pioneers in their fields and paved the way for other women.

My advice for future women in leadership: Never give up! Fail fast, keep moving forward. Learn from mistakes. Your biggest challenges and critics will help you evolve into your best self.