In today’s crowded communications landscape, visibility alone is no longer enough for executives. Dara Cothran, EVP of Global Strategy + Insights at KWT, explores how cultivating influence has become essential for leaders to connect meaningfully with stakeholders and drive business success. She also illustrates how KWT’s xVoiceSM addresses this challenge, helping executives define their voice, build trust, and navigate the complexities of modern communication.
In an era of information overload, it takes a lot for a message to cut through the noise.
Brands face this challenge every day, enlisting a variety of tools and tactics across numerous channels to engage their audiences meaningfully. One such audience engagement tactic we’re seeing in increasing measure is brands leveraging executive leadership as the messenger versus the brand itself.
Through our work with business leaders over the years—and as engaged industry participants at large— we know better than most that an executive’s public persona is a key component of their organization’s external communications strategy.
Simply put, external presence alone is no longer enough; rather, one’s influence is the new imperative for communications and business success.
A slew of recent C-suite communications blunders proves as much: when leaders misstep publicly, it impacts their business’s reputation. CEO visibility leads to corporate visibility, for better or for worse.
Take Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, for instance. Zuck, as he’s taken to labeling himself as of late, is a leader in the midst of a shift from his notorious image as a reclusive technocrat thanks to a series of strategic communication choices that are working to evolve his personal perception on behalf of his brand. Meta understands the reputational impact a visible leader can have, which is why it and an increasing number of savvy organizations are positioning their executives to serve as the human face of their brand.
As an agency that values continuous learning and refinement within our business, we wanted to understand how executives are navigating the communications ecosystem to ensure we're providing effective consultation and creating programming that evolves as their needs do.
The convergence of our expertise and curiosity revealed a market need that we confirmed with research: Executives recognize their value and role in business success, yet they lack the confidence or acumen necessary to leverage their external presence in service of their organizational objectives.
Considering that nine in 10 executives believe that having a strong and visible leader is important for a company’s success while 61% say it can be difficult for leaders to appear relatable to their audiences, we knew a solution was necessary.
Our insights led us to develop an offering that integrates with our agency’s other core services to help executives discern where and how to earn influence with their audiences and impact business outcomes. Because communications success, regardless of platform, is predicated on having a distinct voice and perspective, the path to a strategy that resonates requires understanding an executive as both a person and a leader.
KWT’s xVoiceSM offering helps business leaders bring their external presence to life and create their path to resonance. Our program elevates the role of the executive in brand communications through tailored persona mapping designed to define their voice and pinpoint their unique way in with their target audience. The proprietary process delivers a thoughtful strategy that shapes a stand-out approach to content across channels and an actionable plan that achieves communications objectives and impacts business goals.
The resulting activity and consulting from KWT help executives establish an enduring executive presence to reach their key stakeholders, earn influence and drive business success through changing audience expectations, the emergence of new channels and the ebbs and flows of the business landscape.
Through this process, we’ve helped executives forge new business relationships, recruit employees, build name recognition and even find their next role. We’ve also empowered entire teams, often seeing one executive’s success inspire their colleagues’ participation. When a team of executives completes the program, we're able to help ensure that key messages are authentically delivered by the right leader at the right time.
On top of supporting business objectives, many xVoice participants even find that the program feels like therapy of sorts—that our team has created an output that reflects not only how they show up as a professional, but as a whole person.
“I feel as if this journey you have me on with LinkedIn is helping me find my voice again,” one xVoice program participant shared.
Start making waves
Resonance and business objectives are only achieved by committing to your platform and honing your persona. It may seem easier said than done, but with a strong team and thoughtful strategies at your side, earning influence is entirely attainable.
Planning your agenda for Miami Art Week? With so much happening—from world-class art fairs to vibrant cultural events—it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve curated our annual guide to the must-see exhibits, top dining and nightlife spots, and the can't-miss events that are defining 2024's art scene.
Half ball vases by Gaetano Pesce for Meritalia at Design Miami. 2024 (Image courtesy of Meritalia)
Design Miami/
For its milestone 20th edition, Design Miami/ is embracing a theme of boundless creativity with ‘Blue Sky’, curated by Glenn Adamson. This year’s fair spotlights visionary design through collectible galleries, curios, special projects, and collaborations that embody optimism and daring ideas.
Be sure to experience the debut of Solsea, a hybrid-electric catamaran superyacht designed for sustainable and silent ocean exploration. The visionary concept will premiere with a panel featuring Federico Rossi, Yves Béhar, and Glenn Adamson, diving into the intersection of design and innovation.
Also, rediscover Le Edizioni del Pesce, an iconic collection of handcrafted vases, lamps, mirrors, and candelabras originally created by Gaetano Pesce in his New York studio. Presented by Italian brand Meritalia, this revival showcases Pesce’s inimitable creative legacy.
Marking its debut, Merida Studio transforms its Curio space into a meditative Tokonoma—a Japanese-inspired alcove for displaying objets d’art. Featuring earth-toned walls, intricate textile designs led by Sylvie Johnson, and a Nakashima bench with a rotating Ikebana floral arrangement, the booth offers a serene corner for reflection amidst the fair’s energy.
Untitled Art, Miami Beach
Founded in 2012, Untitled Art has become one of Miami’s premier contemporary art fairs, held annually on the iconic sands of Miami Beach. With a mission to foster collaboration across the art world, Untitled Art provides a dynamic platform for discovering cutting-edge contemporary art. The 2024 edition will feature exciting new artist projects, live performances, panel discussions, and the return of the Untitled Art Podcast—offering fresh perspectives and engaging content throughout the fair.
Art Basel Miami Beach 2024
Art Basel Miami Beach returns in 2024, showcasing significant works from masters of Modern and contemporary art, alongside emerging talents from around the world.
At the fair, Michael Kohn Gallery (Booth B4) will present a curated collection of works by West Coast artists, reflecting the gallery’s nearly 40-year legacy in Los Angeles’ contemporary art scene. Featured artists include Lita Albuquerque, Martha Alf, Joe Goode, Wallace Berman, Bruce Conner, Mark Innerst, and Larry Bell.
2024 Miami Design District Design Commission: Pearl Jam by Nicole Nomsa Moyo
The Miami Design District and Design Miami Curatorial Lab present Nicole Nomsa Moyo’s Pearl Jam, the 2024 Annual Design Commission. Inspired by South Africa’s Ndebele tribe, the installation features giant pearls, jewelry-themed sculptures, and over 1,000 handcrafted 'earrings' made by indigenous Ndebele women, suspended from the neighborhood’s trees.
Craig Robins Collection 2024-2025 Exhibition ‘The Sleep of Reason’
The Craig Robins Collection in Miami’s Design District presents The Sleep of Reason, a 2024-2025 rehang inspired by Goya’s El sueño de la razón produce monstruos. Featured artists Kai Althoff and Jana Euler explore complex emotional landscapes through abject imagery, alongside recent works by Jill Mulleady, Mario Ayala, Karon Davis, Bony Ramirez, and Alteronce Gumby.
Living the Dream Permanent Mural by Alteronce Gumby
Alteronce Gumby’s first outdoor public mural, Living the Dream, debuts this December in Miami’s Design District. Located in Jade Alley, the mural blends stained glass, gemstones, fossils, and mosaic tiles in vibrant Fauvist-inspired colors, incorporating materials like jade and turquoise. The work continues Gumby’s exploration of color and cosmic themes.
Alcova Miami at River Inn
Alcova Miami returns for its second international edition at River Inn, Miami’s oldest hotel, located in Little Havana. With over 40 exhibitors, including Objects of Common Interest and Suchi Reddy, this dynamic event transforms the historic venue into a platform for innovative contemporary design. Situated just steps from the Miami River in the vibrant South River Drive Historic District, Alcova continues to showcase cutting-edge works within a space rich in history.
Lyra Drake's "Infinite Faith in a Finite World" at Faena Art
Faena Art presents the debut of multidisciplinary artist Lyra Drake's "Infinite Faith in a Finite World" during 2024 Miami Art Week. This interactive artwork explores human belief through Drake’s custom AI consciousness, inviting visitors to engage in real-time dialogue with a feminine oracle.
Private Events
Zeitz MOCAA in Miami
On Sunday, December 1st, Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director and Chief Curator of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), will be in Miami ahead of Art Basel Miami Beach and is available for select appointments.
Salone del Mobile Cocktail Party
On Wednesday, December 4th, Salone del Mobile.Milano is hosting a party at Soho Beach House’s Ocho Rooftop Terrace to celebrate design and what's to come in 2025.
Opening Reception: Art Week Installation by Peter Studl
Mr. C Miami-Coconut Grove hosts an exclusive reception on December 4th for a new art installation by renowned Austrian/American abstract artist Peter Studl. The interactive exhibition will feature new works displayed across multiple spaces at the hotel.
Sexy Fish Miami x Judith Leiber Couture
On December 4th, Sexy Fish Miami will host a chic luncheon to celebrate their dazzling collaboration with Judith Leiber Couture, featuring renowned artist Ashley Longshore. The event will mark the debut of the stunning Bust Bag collection, all within Sexy Fish’s luxurious, art-inspired dining room—perfect for an exclusive, high-fashion moment during Miami Art Week.
The Cultivist’s Miami Artist Lunch with Hugo McCloud
On December 5th, The Cultivist will host their highly anticipated Miami Artist Lunch at The Grove, W Hotel South Beach, to celebrate renowned artist Hugo McCloud.
Dinner with Pearl Lam and Artist Michal Korman
Michal Korman
On December 5th, guests will join Pearl Lam and artist Michal Korman for a seated dinner at LPM Restaurant & Bar, Miami, in collaboration with Pearl Lam Galleries. Korman’s vibrant abstract works, inspired by nature and movement, will be showcased throughout the restaurant, blending art and fine dining in a unique experience.
Open to the public
Cartier Trinity 100 Pop-Up
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of its iconic Trinity collection, Cartier is hosting an immersive pop-up experience in Miami from December 4-8. This dynamic exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time, starting with Louis Cartier’s original 1924 design. The experience features five distinct spaces, and includes a showcase of iconic jewelry and objects from the Cartier Collection, with opportunities for visitors to try on pieces from the legendary collection.
Gucci Snow Globe Installation
Gucci celebrates the festive season with a striking snow globe installation at Sweet Bird North Plaza in Miami’s Design District, running from November 27 to January 7. Inspired by Gucci’s travel heritage, the display features iconic GG-monogrammed luggage and miniature buildings from the brand’s history, complemented by three murals from artist Corydon Cowansage.
LVMH Culture House Pop-Up
LVMH Culture House presents a five-day immersive art experience in Miami’s Design District, from December 4-8. The exhibition highlights emerging and established artists, with a focus on artists of color, women, LGBTQ+ artists, and artists with disabilities. Panel discussions and events with LVMH brand presidents, artists, and cultural figures will take place throughout the week.
4 Hands Omakase Collaboration at Queen Omakase
On December 5th, 6th, and 7th, Queen Omakase Miami will host a unique, multi-sensory dining experience with Michelin-starred Chef Freddy Money, Culinary Director of Atlas in Atlanta. In collaboration with Queen’s own Chef Max Kamakura, this exclusive, artful, multi-course tasting journey redefines the traditional omakase experience in an intimate setting.
Denver’s Yacht Club Bar Takeover at Sweet Liberty
On December 5th at 9pm, Sweet Liberty Drinks and Supply Co. will welcome Denver’s award-winning Yacht Club Bar for a one-night pop-up, with a curated selection of cocktails blending the best of both venues.
Habibi Live Art Showcase with Mr. Drip
Visit Habibi, Miami’s latest hotspot, on December 6th for a live art event featuring self-taught artist Mr. Drip. Known for his striking celebrity portraits and unique dripping technique, Mr. Drip will create a masterpiece in real-time. The night will also feature a DJ set by Sounds of Rituals, renowned for performances alongside Black Coffee.
Dirty French Steakhouse
Located in Brickell, Dirty French Steakhouse is a high-energy hotspot from Major Food Group, combining classic steakhouse fare with French influences and bold flavors. This glamorous venue serves up the finest meats and fish, sourced from the world’s best purveyors, all within a chic, buzzing atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out during Miami Art Week.
Japón at The Setai Miami Beach
Recently opened Japón at The Setai offers an elevated dining experience that blends the elegance of traditional Japanese cuisine with Miami’s vibrant scene. Featuring both indoor and outdoor seating options, the restaurant is nestled within the award-winning hotel and provides a luxurious, immersive setting perfect for those seeking a culinary escape.
