Driven by creativity and relentless energy, Aliah Davis-McHenry thrives on delivering compelling, impactful, and consumer-led, data-driven solutions using her extensive experience in digital marketing, public relations, and emerging technologies. She serves as a dot-connector and changemaker in her current role, leading key activities to accelerate and advance Cx programs (CxM and Influencer) at GlaxoSmithKline.
Aliah was honored with PR News’ Top Women in PR Awards and the White House gave Aliah the accolade “Changemaker” at the State of Women Summit. Aliah is also an accomplished content creator and speaker on social media, tech, wellness, and entre/intrapreneurship. She has been featured in Essence Magazine, O Magazine, CNN, Real Simple, and Working Mother. Aliah is also listed as a Stiletto Amazing Woman of the Year, a finalist in Campbell’s Soup Competition for women influencers, named one of The Top 100 PR Influencers in 2021 (Hubspot), Mediabistro’s The (Other) Real Top 14 PR Twits to Follow, and PR Couture’s 6 PR Girls to Follow on Twitter.
When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, traveling, wellness, and volunteering.
If you had to market yourself as a brand, what would be the campaign tagline that you will use to promote yourself, and why?
I’d go with Create, Connect, and Convert. I am passionate about creating impactful digital strategy and content that informs, supports, and empowers consumers. I am #consumeredobsessed and intentional about connecting with our consumers, addressing their needs, fostering community, and ultimately converting into valuable data, insights, and sales.
What is your professional background?
I started my career in nonprofit management and fundraising. I always wanted to help others and to work with organizations that were fulfilling the needs of marginalized communities or underserved communities. In those roles, I always gravitated toward digital opportunities specifically digital marketing, social media, and UX/UI in website redevelopment. After gathering expertise and building relationships in my in-house roles and as a consultant, I started my digital marketing consultancy specializing in AI-enabled marketing, public relations, influencer marketing, and social media. I worked with clients like New Jersey Association of School Librarians, itiba skincare, Cheeses of France, and Consumer Reports (who I later worked in-house).
As a US Digital Growth Platform Acceleration Lead at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), I lead the development of new digital ecosystem strategies and executions that enable GSK’s Health and Wellness portfolio to drive growth. I play an integral role working across priority growth brands to connect (through influencer and personalization enabled by CxM), drive brand commercial innovation, and expand reach to consumers.
On any given day, I can be presenting to leadership or the Marketing organization on results of an impactful Influencer campaign (and the future of Influencer Marketing) or the importance of data acquisition and retention when marketing in a cookie-less world. I’m also meeting with our agency partners, vendors…as well as strategizing and learning with my cross-functional and global partners. My days are busy and challenging and I love what I do.
Why did you get involved with the AMA-New Jersey chapter? Why is this organization important to you?
I joined several years ago and let my membership lapse for some reason. I rejoined before the pandemic to network with other marketing professionals and professional development and I am glad that I did.
The organization is important to me to stay connected and to keep on top of trends and happenings in the industry especially during these times. It’s great to get those emails in your inbox about what’s happening. The programming has been excellent and flexible with my schedule as it’s usually during lunch hour or in the evenings. I’ve enjoyed all of the events that I’ve attended so far.
We are celebrating Women’s History Month. Which woman has inspired you in your life or your career, and why?
I definitely have to say my mother and my personal board of directors (BOD). My mother’s professional career and her love for learning have been a guiding star. I saw firsthand her drive and “stay learning” approach. Whether it is a learning from a certificate course or attending a conference – there is so much out there that enhances our mindset and our skillset.
My personal board of directors is a diverse group of women and men that pushes me, offers different perspectives, and asks those difficult yet thoughtful questions. They have helped guide my career and I am thankful for their expertise.
Tell us more about personal Board of Directors
A personal board of directors is more than just mentors. They could be sponsors, friends, colleagues, previous managers, relatives, or someone you met at a networking event. Each one has a specialty as far as career or business guidance, and each one gives a unique perspective. One Board of Director could share lessons on what they have learned on their journeys and how it relates to your own journey. Another could be asking those difficult questions that you don’t want to ask yourself.
We should always remember that everything is an investment—time, money, or both. Time is limited, resources are limited, and we have to use them wisely. These mentors have helped me ensure my choices have been my best move and impactful.
Some women are scared to ask for mentorship and sponsorship. You should not be! Choose 4-6 personal Board of Directors who could help you grow. For example, if you are a college student, your personal Board of Directors could include your professor or a Dean. It may be someone you interned for. Whomever you choose for your BOD, keep in contact and continue to build personal relationships while informing them of your journey. Invite them for coffee (even virtually) and share resources. It should be a reciprocated relationship at whatever career stage you may be in. Your BOD will see your growth, and they’ll give you valuable advice paramount to your advancement.
If someone wants to connect with you, what is the best way to reach out to you on social media?
I’m on Twitter at @aliahpr
