Melissa Gelner

Melissa Gelner has a diverse work experience that spans over several companies and industries. Melissa is currently working as a Senior Strategist at Haven Sales and Marketing since August 2017. Prior to that, they served as the Chief Kinship Officer and Executive Director of The Askinosie Foundation at Askinosie Chocolate starting from September 2015. Before joining Askinosie Chocolate, Gelner operated their own marketing firm, M Gelner Marketing LLC, where they worked as the Principal from October 2014. Gelner also has experience in the education sector, having served as a Member of the Board of Trustees at The Summit Preparatory School from September 2014.

Gelner's extensive background also includes working at Tyson Foods, where they held various roles starting from 2001. Melissa served as the Director of Customer Development, Foodservice National Accounts from November 2009 to August 2014. In this role, they led marketing initiatives, established innovation partnerships, and managed a team to drive sales growth. Gelner previously held the position of Sr Customer Development Manager at Tyson Foods from January 2001 to November 2009. During this time, they set the industry standard for consumer insight-driven new product development and received recognition as Tyson Foods' Sales and Marketing Person of the Year in 2002.

Before joining Tyson Foods, Gelner gained experience in marketing at Restaurant Systems Group as a Franchisee Field Marketing professional for YUM Brands from May 2000 to January 2001. Melissa also worked as an Account Executive at Noble from May 1997 to April 2000.

Through Gelner's career journey, they have developed a strong foundation in marketing and sales, with a particular focus on customer development, innovation, and strategic planning.

Melissa Gelner attended Nerinx Hall High School from 1989 to 1993. Melissa then pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree at The University of Tulsa, where they graduated with a dual major in Business Management & Marketing in 1997. No specific degree name was mentioned for their high school education.