CREATING IMPACT 

HEATHER HEHMAN founded Efficiency Marketing & Publicity in 2017 to help local businesses and community organizations create more impact through branding, strategy, and execution. A University of Michigan alumna, Hehman began her career at top Chicago agencies like DDB and Leo Burnett before launching her initiative to lead branding and strategic marketing projects for nonprofits and small businesses across the North Shore. Other key achievements include launching TEDxWilmette for idea sharing and local dialogue, as well as co-creating Wilmette-onomics to support community commerce and local engagement.

What does creating impact mean to you? It means creating something meaningful that lasts. Whether it’s creating a business, brand, idea, or conversation, I want to spark something that keeps evolving and continuously makes an impact.

What’s a trend you are embracing—or challenging? I’m embracing AI for creative thinking—and I’m pushing back on the idea that any attention is good attention. I’m after meaningful attention that builds real connection with real people.

What do you do to recharge? I recharge with Practice HORA®, a physical fitness program that strengthens the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve goals. That, plus a steady supply of truly excellent coffee, keeps me feeling strong and steady.

What excites you most about the future of your industry? What once took a big budget and months of lead time is now faster, more affordable, more personal. That means we can dream big, test ideas, and create professional materials that feel authentic and impactful. I love it!

What conversations are you passionate about bringing to the table? I founded TEDxWilmette to bring big, bold ideas that connect people to our community. Although I stepped back from leading the team, I stay closely involved, most recently producing the Salon series and helping coach the speakers.

For more information, message her on LinkedIn or visit EfficiencyMarketingandPublicity.com.