Melle Hock
Melle Hock
Edelman
US Chief Strategy Officer, Global Strategy Lead, Unilever
Melle has a passion for bold ideas that tap into culture and build the bottom line. At Edelman, she advances research innovation and planning processes that are data-rich, action-oriented, and culturally inspired. She specializes in helping brand marketers illuminate insights, act strategically and challenge their creative boundaries.
Melle has over 15 years experience partnering with clients across FMCG, retail and technology sectors, including Samsung, TJX, and Unilever. Under her leadership as CSO, Edelman secured its greatest number of shortlists and medals ever at Cannes, the 4As Jay Chiat Award for Most Awarded Independent Agency in 25 years, and a coveted listing to Contagious Pioneers 2023.
Prior to this role, Melle oversaw the U.S. Dove portfolio, leading an integrated team to history-making work on the CROWN Act, COVID relief, the Dove Self-Esteem Project, and Dove Men+Care. She continues to guide global strategy across Unilever and its brands.
Melle is the local chair of Griot, Edelman’s Black employee network. She is a fierce advocate for cultural inclusion and advancing careers for people of color in media and advertising. Outside the office, Melle is co-founder of the nonprofit organization ARTNOIR, a creative collective whose mission is to cultivate and connect a diverse new generation of artists, appreciators and collectors of color.
Melle is a proud alumni of Columbia University and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.