Internationally acclaimed marketing guru set to transform Rocket’s brand narrative
In a move signaling a strategic shift in its marketing strategy, Rocket Companies, the Detroit-based fintech giant, has appointed Jonathan Mildenhall as its inaugural Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). The announcement comes on the heels of the company’s relentless pursuit to redefine the fintech landscape, blending mortgage, real estate, and other financial services under one umbrella.
Effective January 8, 2024, Mildenhall, a marketing maestro with a global footprint, is entrusted with the task of crafting a unified and compelling voice for all Rocket Companies’ businesses. His three-decade-long career includes transformative stints at Coca Cola and Airbnb, where he played pivotal roles in shaping the marketing landscape.
Varun Krishna, CEO of Rocket Companies, expressed his excitement, stating, “Jonathan is one of the top marketing minds in the world, with a strong reputation for consistently delivering compelling campaigns that break through the clutter and become socially relevant.” Krishna looks forward to Mildenhall and his team weaving innovative narratives that showcase Rocket’s profound impact on customers, team members, and vendors alike.
Mildenhall, also the co-founder of TwentyFirstCenturyBrand, a leading branding consultancy, brings a wealth of experience in elevating brand impact for global giants like Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Walmart. As Chairman of the consultancy, he will continue to guide its strategic direction.
Commenting on his new role, Mildenhall acknowledged Rocket’s significant role in fostering the American Dream through homeownership and financial freedom. “I am honored to work with this talented team, led by Varun, to tell stories that will inspire and motivate,” he said. Mildenhall envisions crafting integrated marketing campaigns that resonate with the extraordinary social impact Rocket delivers daily.
Before founding TwentyFirstCenturyBrand, Mildenhall served as the first CMO of Airbnb, where his innovative strategies catapulted the short-term rental platform into a household name. His tenure at Coca-Cola as Vice President of global advertising strategy and content excellence is also noteworthy, marked by the iconic “Open Happiness” campaign, leading the brand to its most profitable growth period in two decades.
With a seat on the boards of GoFundMe and Fanatics, Mildenhall has earned accolades on Forbes’ list of the World’s most influential CMOs and Business Insider’s roster of the most innovative CMOs. His reputation is further solidified by winning Adweek’s Brand Genius award.
As Rocket Companies prepares to embark on a new era of marketing prowess, all eyes are on Mildenhall to see how he will steer the narrative of this financial powerhouse and elevate its brand to new heights.