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United States Ken Schmidt, former Director of Communications for Harley-Davidson, specializes in guiding businesses toward competitive dominance through enhanced brand management and strategic communication.
As the former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Ken Schmidt played an active role in one of the most celebrated corporate turnarounds.
In 1997, Ken Schmidt left Harley-Davidson to take an ownership position with VSA Partners, a highly successful Chicago-based marketing firm that served many well-known brands.
Ken Schmidt’s professional journey is marked by his significant contributions to corporate communications and brand strategy. His formal association with Harley-Davidson began in 1985, where he was tasked with assisting the then-struggling company in restoring its image, improving competitiveness, and stimulating demand for its motorcycles. Over several years, under Schmidt’s influence, Harley-Davidson experienced a notable increase in sales, establishing itself as a widely respected and profitable entity in the global market. His work during this period, focusing on corporate positioning and media relations, played a role in one of corporate history’s more recognized turnarounds.
In 1990, Schmidt assumed the role of Director of Corporate and Financial Communications for Harley-Davidson, becoming its primary spokesperson to both media and financial communities. He frequently appeared on national news programs and was consulted by business media for his insights on unconventional communication strategies, customer attraction, and brand development. This led to numerous speaking engagements internationally. In 1997, he transitioned from Harley-Davidson to take an ownership position at VSA Partners, a Chicago-based marketing firm that served a range of well-known brands, including Harley-Davidson. Two years later, in 1999, Schmidt sold his share of VSA to establish Ken Schmidt Company, combining his interests in motorcycling and public speaking.
Today, Schmidt maintains an active presence as a keynote speaker and consultant, drawing on his experiences to advise on topics such as competitive strategy, brand management, and human behavior in business. He authored “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance,” released in 2018, which shares principles for improving business and personal competitiveness. His work includes collaborative efforts, such as co-authoring “100 Years of Harley-Davidson,” a best-selling motor sports book. Schmidt’s approach emphasizes differentiation and achieving memorable status in the marketplace. He is also the host of the “Tailgating with Geniuses” podcast and a co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training.
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