In the vast expanse of the aviation industry, Alicia Tillman emerges as a trailblazer, currently occupying the role of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and a Member of the Leadership Committee at Delta, one of the world’s largest airlines. Her journey to this pivotal role is marked by a wealth of experience in global marketing, sales, and strategy at renowned organizations, including SAP, American Express, and Capitolis.
Commanding the Skies: Alicia Tillman’s Role as CMO at Delta
Assuming the position of CMO at Delta in June 2023, Tillman became the driving force behind the airline’s brand strategy. In her role, she orchestrates the global marketing, creative services, and community engagement teams, weaving together Delta’s narrative and fostering a deeper connection with customers. As a key player in the Leadership Committee, she influences Delta’s overarching vision and strategy.
From Lycoming College to Kellogg: Alicia Tillman’s Educational Odyssey
Tillman’s journey began with a solid educational foundation, holding a bachelor’s degree in marketing and mass communication from Lycoming College. Focused on international marketing, public relations, and advertising, she further honed her skills through the Chief Marketing Officer program at The Kellogg School of Management, setting the stage for her impactful career.
From American Express to SAP: Pioneering Marketing Excellence
Embarking on her professional journey, Tillman’s career kicked off at American Express, where she dedicated 11 years to various roles, including leading the travel division’s marketing, public affairs, and business services. Her responsibilities included driving growth, fostering customer loyalty, and enhancing brand awareness for the travel business.
Later, she ventured into the tech realm, joining SAP as the Chief Marketing Officer for SAP Ariba, the world’s largest business network. Here, she played a pivotal role in shaping the global marketing strategy for SAP Ariba, SAP Fieldglass, and SAP Concur. Notably, Tillman spearheaded the launch of SAP’s purpose-driven marketing campaign, “The Best Run,” showcasing the positive impact SAP has on the world.
Transforming SAP: Alicia Tillman’s Impactful CMO Stint
In 2017, Tillman assumed the role of Global Chief Marketing Officer at SAP, overseeing the end-to-end marketing function for the entire company. Her tenure was marked by transformative initiatives, including reshaping SAP’s brand identity, innovating customer experiences, and launching groundbreaking initiatives such as the Experience Management category, the SAP Purpose Network, and the CMO Growth Council.
Fintech Venture: Capitolis and Alicia Tillman’s Chief Revenue Officer Role
In 2020, Tillman took a detour into the fintech space, becoming the Chief Revenue Officer of Capitolis, a leading fintech company specializing in capital optimization solutions for financial institutions. Her leadership propelled Capitolis to record growth, earning recognition as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies.
Leadership at Delta: Alicia Tillman’s Impactful Arrival
Joining Delta in 2023, Tillman took the reins at a critical juncture as the aviation industry recovered from the pandemic’s impact. In her role as CMO, she spearheads global marketing efforts, deepens customer relationships, and shapes Delta’s brand reputation as a trusted consumer brand.
A Visionary Flight Plan: Alicia Tillman’s Delta Marketing Focus
Tillman’s vision for Delta’s marketing extends beyond conventional strategies. Her focus encompasses impactful storytelling, creating personalized customer experiences, and embracing innovation to set Delta apart in the competitive market.
Recognition and Beyond Alicia Tillman’s Legacy
Alicia Tillman’s more than two decades of experience and impactful leadership have not gone unnoticed. Recognized as one of the Most Influential CMOs in the World by Forbes, Tillman’s accolades extend beyond her professional realm. She serves as a board member for Gates Industrial Corporation and RainFocus, showcasing her commitment to both business and education.
Looking to the Horizon: Alicia Tillman’s Delta Future
As the aviation industry charts a course to recovery, Alicia Tillman’s strategic vision, extensive experience, and commitment to innovation position her as a driving force in Delta’s journey. Her leadership promises to solidify Delta’s brand, strengthen customer relationships, and guide the airline to sustainable growth in a dynamic and competitive landscape. Alicia Tillman’s ascent at Delta is not just a career trajectory; it’s a narrative of leadership, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the skies.
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