David Kao is a cross-disciplinary strategist and marketer. His ability to apply design thinking along with his sharp eye for the details of design allow him to solve complex problems at the intersection between digital products and brand positioning. His curiosity with the relationship between humans and products has led him to hold a number of roles with companies as diverse as CO OP Brand Partners, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès. Fixated on digital technology, he has been exploring the application of design with business problems at Fever, L+R, and Fueled. Most recently, he helped startup a mobile app that allows you to discover and connect with people nearby. David studied at Parsons The New School for Design obtaining a BBA in Strategic Design and Management. In addition, he has guest lectured for undergraduate and graduate courses at Parsons The New School for Design.

 
 

Featured Experience:

 

I teamed up with my friend during college to launch TAILORED SOCIETY, an online platform that showcases up and coming fashion designers from around the world. Working with students and emerging brands this venture kick started my passion for technology and  

 

Working with Hermès’ executive team and collaborated with Columbia MBA students to design an integrated digital platform. Assisted with ideation, brand strategy and design of the Hermès Storybook app and “Carousel Concept”.

 

I joined CO OP Brand Partners in 2010 to assist with business development strategy on market research and brand strategies to identify business opportunities in United States and Asia-Pacific markets. In 2012 I was brought back to work directly with the CMO to identify and pursue new prospects and opportunities.

 
 
 

At Louis Vuitton I worked on the advertising team on national and regional media strategies with media planning and analysis. Worked closely with publications such as Vogue, WSJ, NY Times, Esquire, Style.com, Whitewall, and more. Helped spearhead their digital advertising strategy on mobile and tablet. 

 
 

Led strategy and brainstorming on product concept with prospective clients. Owned and operated pipeline of new business leads generating $1M in sales. Helped on special projects within Fueled’s operated co-working space leading to partnerships and events with Google, Twilio, and TriNet.

 
 
 

I joined Fever a seed-stage startup as their head of marketing in the NYC Office. Leading a team of four, I developed the NYC marketing plan, led strategy and execution for customer acquisition through online, offline, and partnership channels leading to a 25% growth. Spearhead and managed cost, scheduling, hiring, and performance for the 100 person brand ambassador program. Developed operational tools to measure project financials, KPIs, and management reports.

 
 
 

I’ve worked with L+R on an ongoing basis as a product strategist and consultant with mobile and branding projects. From product strategy, brand positioning, advising on new business deals, and developing feature sets.