Before branding was even a buzzword, BECKY BERKHEIMER was already doing it. “Much of my education comes from many different work and life experiences in different cites including New York City, Philadelphia, and Chicago,” says Berkheimer, who majored in graphic design at Penn State University. “I worked at various jobs supporting brand and graphic design for retail and design agencies that provided branding, marketing and photo art direction.” In her current role as Creative Director of Concept and Trend at Crate&Barrel, she says her leadership style is, “organization with wiggle room to explore and be creative. I feel like this approach sets everyone on the team up for success with the ability to adapt to life and market changes, while supported by positivity and respect.” Through her career and life experiences, she learned to be open to all things “new,” that everything is connected and there are so many ways to approach all things in life. “This has been a very valuable tool for me in my growth as a person and in my career,” she says. “Case in point, my current boss at Crate&Barrel was our intern when we worked together at Anthropologie. The lesson I learned is that we all start somewhere, and you never know where life will lead. Quality connections and respect go a long way.” It’s no wonder she is inspired by Jane Goodall. “She is such a beautiful, grounded person that takes action, even when it is difficult, and provides many different ways to connect and contribute to the greater whole.”

Becky Berkheimer is with Crate&Barrel located at 1250 Techny Road in Northbrook. For more information, call 847-272-2888 or visit crateandbarrel.com.