Designing strategies that make a difference
A marketing strategist based in Austin
Let’s build something meaningful together
What Drives Me
I’m a proactive, thoughtful marketing strategist who blends storytelling, design, and insights to solve problems that matter. I lead with empathy, listen deeply, and craft solutions that are inclusive and effective.
Whether mapping audience journeys, leading a go-to-market launch, or refining messaging architecture, I bring clarity, compassion, and a get-it-done attitude. I’m driven by a desire to hear people’s stories, make systems better, and build a more just world.
Currently, I’m deepening my UX and product skills at Austin Center for Design, focusing on prototyping, human-centered research, and storytelling for change.
WHAT I’ve DONE
I’ve led brand strategy, growth marketing, and nonprofit development. After earning my degree from UT Austin, I served as a minister to college students with InterVarsity, then joined their national marketing team to launch their annual fund and donor lifecycle strategy.
Most recently, I set the marketing strategy for The Trevor Project, the leading national organization supporting LGBTQ+ young people.
I’ve helped raise over $20M, led multi-channel campaigns for national orgs, and partnered with brands like the NFL, Harry’s, and Sephora. I’ve also helped launch brands and digital products for mental health startups and BIPOC-led orgs.
WHAT’s NEXT
I’m seeking a team that values purpose, clarity, and action. I’m especially excited about roles in:
Brand Strategy – Clarifying story, refining positioning, aligning creative across teams
Demand Generation – Orchestrating multi-channel campaigns that drive action
Product Marketing – Translating insights into messaging, GTM strategy, and journey optimization
I bring a hybrid perspective—empathetic and analytical, strategic and tactical—always striving to make experiences better for real people.
WHAT I LOVE
A perfect evening involves enjoying Texas BBQ and a cold drink with friends, sharing stories that shape who we are. Weekends are spent discovering new art for my walls, exploring Austin’s restaurant scene, and relaxing on cozy outdoor patios with an iced matcha.
people CENTric solutions
To cut through year-end giving noise, we launched a hopeful, action-driven campaign raising a record $6.1M to fund 24/7 crisis care.
To replace clinical distance with trust, we led a rebrand centered on warmth and resilience, driving immediate inquiries and building a waitlist.
To rebuild relevance, we repositioned the brand around a clear mission—leading to a unified, strategic approach to annual giving.
To keep support going beyond June, we built a year-round Pride campaign, growing our donor base and developing strategic brand partnership.
To help adult children speak with confidence during tough conversations, we created a practice space for emotionally complex dialogue with their parents.
ExPERIENCES
The Trevor Project
The leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ young people.
Marketing Strategy Manager
May 2023 – Mar 2025
InterVarsity/USA
A faith-based organization dedicated to supporting college student in their spiritual journeys and providing resources for personal growth and community involvement.
Senior Marketing Strategist
Nov 2021 – May 2013
Marketing Strategist
Jul 2020 – Nov 2021
Marketing Associate
Jan 2015 – Jul 2020
Program Lead
Jul 2018 – Jun 2020
Program Staff
Jan 2014 – Jun 2018
Let’s work together
Looking for a partner to launch a new campaign, reposition your brand, or engage supporters through story, strategy, and human-centered design? Let’s connect.
joseph.y.kwan@gmail.com
linkedin.com/in/josephykwan
DOWNLOAD MY RESUME
Things I enjoy