Making an impact is part of the job description at Kenvue, but what is it actually like to be a Kenvuer?
To find out, get to know Pamela Brown, Head of North America Consumer Engagement and Business Solutions, and see how she puts people first, inspires her team and champions diversity at Kenvue.
Tell us about your work at Kenvue.
I’m the North America Consumer Engagement and Business Solution Leader, so I oversee an incredible, smart, creative team of community engagement leads and associates that oversee our social media platforms. As it relates to Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, a little bit of Reddit, and Pinterest, my team posts organic content and ensures that any brand, product, ingredient or story claims are accurately shared with the consumer while living into the brand character and tone.
Social media is the biggest part of how we’re driving mental and physical availability. It’s ubiquitous so there’s always something happening and we have an always-on pulse to relevant cultural trends while actioning consumer insights in real-time. There’s never a dull day!
When did you start working with Kenvue brands?
Don’t fall out of your chairs when I share how long I’ve been here, but I just hit my 41st anniversary on September 19! So, while I definitely did not grow up in the digital age, I always had a passion for understanding what’s happening in the world and where we need to show up — as an organization and then as a brand.
I started in a contracted administrative role at a time when we were just supporting Johnson’s Baby®. There was no Neutrogena®, no Clean & Clear®, no LISTERINE®. I was only supposed to be here for two months, which turned into 41 years. And I think the rationale behind that is that I flexed my intellectual curiosity. I quickly started to ask a lot of questions — so much that my managers at the time invited me into meetings where I got to inform and shape concepts.
Are you part of the Kenvuer Impact Network (which is Kenvue’s name for Employee Resource Groups)? How does that affect your experience?
I applaud Kenvue for embracing diversity, in all forms. I have been part of the Diversity Marketing Team, which helps our US marketing business units reach a more diverse pool of talent while championing inclusion and belonging. I have always been very intentional about creating a diverse team. We have all walked in different journeys to get here and it’s important those be shared, understood and accepted.
I’m also a part of Black at Kenvue, where I get to mentor people new to Kenvue. It can be a little overwhelming when you start day one and you’re trying to figure out how to navigate and who to connect to. My philosophy has always been to reach back and pull someone else up, and it has been so fulfilling to help others.
How do you start your day?
I start it with a minute of just time for me. I think it’s important that you take time to denote what you’re thankful for. I have a gratitude journal where I jot down the things I’m thankful for and what would make today great, and that is my compass. It’s helped me stay so focused on what I’m doing and how to invest in myself. Because when you do, it pays so many dividends back into how you show up.
What are a few words you would use to describe working at Kenvue?
The main word would be opportunistic — and from a positive perspective! All points of view and perspectives are welcomed.
What advice would you give someone entering the workforce?
As you can imagine, having gone through a lot of change, I’ve rolled up my sleeves and have learned to embrace it. But at the end of the day, I always say to myself and my team, it’s never personal. It’s always about the business. So, when things change, it’s not happening to you, it’s happening to the organization and we’re changing for a reason.
Lastly, what are the essentials in your medicine cabinet?
My tried and true is Aveeno®! Moisturization is a non-negotiable for us highly-melanated consumers. Their Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion and Daily Moisturizing Body Oil Mist are essential. I also don’t go a day without putting SPF on my face. I think there’s a myth for us black and brown consumers that we don’t need sunscreen. And absolutely, you do.
I also work out a lot, taking barbell lift classes twice a week and riding my Peloton. So, when I overdo it, I will definitely reach for a Motrin®.