Hi again, I’m Arielle! 👋
Professionally, most people know me as the marketer who gets it.
For over 10 years, I’ve specialized in brand, growth, and team development. Quick hits:
Head of Marketing at Balsamiq (current)
Creative turned fractional CMO
Former agency leader
Coach/mentor
A bit more about me
These days, you can find me as the Head of Marketing at Balsamiq, the fastest and easiest to use wireframing tool.
I'm also the founder of AKJ Studio, where I work with companies on their marketing strategies + launch new products/projects, and coach early to mid-career professionals.
Before Balsamiq, I built M1 Finance’s first content and social media teams, led marketing teams at various startups, crushed a GOTV campaign for Vote.org, and ran an ad agency. I'm obsessed with knowing the customer and have built successful strategies across brand, growth, content, social, PR, community, acquisition, communications, creative, lifecycle, and more.
Born and raised in the north suburbs of Chicago, I got my start doodling in math class. I do more than doodle now, and my work's led me to partner with fast growing startups, independent small businesses, nonprofits, and big brands. It's even been picked up by publications like Forbes, Adweek, and The Wall Street Journal.
But don’t worry, trying to bake gluten free sourdough keeps me humble.
Anyway, I love tackling new challenges. If you’re interested, learn more or get in touch.
🤝 What I’m like at work
My approach is kind, clear, and actionable. I’m good at:
Transforming complex marketing challenges into successful program launches
Understanding the customer and using those insights to make meaningful business decisions
Developing strategies that improve brand equity, drive growth, and make the brand matter
Building and nurturing high-performing teams
Creating a healthy work environment
🎨 What I’m like outside of work
I’m pretty similar to how I am at work! A few things you may not see in an email or call:
I’m a native Russian speaker (Ukrainian heritage).
I love a HARD workout class, like boxing.
I read a ton—especially historical or science fiction books.
I enjoy hosting, especially since it means I can cook or bake a ton.
I still draw and paint (though I don’t do art shows anymore).