Brand Manager
Nicole Cooke
Working as a Brand Manager is all about strategy implementation, internal integration, and, most importantly, client success. Nicole’s background helps her achieve all three fluidly. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Art and an extensive variety of hands-on experience in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, with expertise in designing and creative strategy, managing brand identity, and leading marketing operations. Nicole was recognized as a ‘Rising Star’ by Arts Services Inc. in 2020 for her work overseeing an award-winning rebranding effort as Executive Director at the WNY Book Arts Center, and going on to lead the organization through a transition online to serve the community from anywhere in the world.
Nicole loves to build collaborative relationships, empowering others to embrace their own creativity and helping to amplify their ideas. Her background lends a unique perspective to solving complex problems from brainstorming to execution. She believes in the power of authenticity to drive great marketing campaigns. In 2017, Nicole was recognized by Buffalo Business First as a ‘30 Under 30’ honoree for her work building the community engagement program at Valu Home Centers, ‘Valu Crew,’ an exercise in sweat equity that yielded hundreds of hours of volunteerism across 5 counties in its first year.
By building her career in family-owned businesses and nonprofit organizations, Nicole deeply understands that funds are hard-earned and resources must be mindfully invested with partners who believe enthusiastically in your mission, and she brings that commitment to excellence to each project and isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves in service to a great outcome.
Nicole is an avid cyclist, completing her tenth Ride for Roswell in 2022 – this time, 100 miles! When she’s not out on her bike, Nicole loves to read, go for a run, enjoy music, eat snacks, make art, spend time with friends, and hang out with her partner Mike – and their cats, Biscuit and Porkchop.
