Vanessa Santana is a brand marketing leader recognized for building high-growth, culturally resonant brands at the intersection of storytelling, creativity, and inclusion. As Director of Brand Marketing at Maesa, she leads full-funnel go-to-market strategy for fine’ry and Mix:Bar, among the fastest growing fragrance brands in mass retail. She first joined Maesa as Brand Marketing Director for the celebrity-founded beauty brand, TPH by Taraji P. Henson, helping position it as one of the leading Black-owned and celebrity-founded haircare and body care brands.
Previously, Vanessa led Global Innovation & Engagement for Dove Hair at Unilever, leading purpose-driven product launches and cross-market strategies for one of the world’s most iconic beauty brands. She also spent several years at General Mills, spearheading award-winning, creator-led campaigns for Gushers, Fruit by the Foot, Chex Mix, and more—blending cultural insight with digital-first storytelling. She began her career in media and insights with Nielsen and NBCUniversal, grounding her expertise in consumer behavior, data, and culture.
Vanessa has been recognized with multiple industry awards for leadership, creativity, and purpose-led impact. She is passionate about mentorship, inclusive leadership, and leveraging marketing as a force for social good. Beyond her corporate roles, she is a committed community leader and inclusion advocate, having served as a Girl Scouts USA Troop Leader, Board Member of HandsOn Twin Cities, and in leadership positions within Black and Hispanic employee resource groups. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, sports, and spending quality time with family and friends.
