The story behind the voice
Henry Cadena is an award-winning, Director-level Cultural Insights and Brand Strategy leader who believes the most impactful work happens at the intersection of business challenges, emerging technology, and human truths. With over 15 years of experience driving growth for global icons including Nike, Jordan, Walgreens, Cadillac, and P&G, Henry's approach is rooted in a simple principle: build strategies that deliver. Results-oriented and pragmatic, he leverages data synthesis and AI-driven insights to bypass superficial concepts and build high-velocity strategies that hit aggressive business goals.
Drawing on his Mexican-American heritage and a global mindset, Henry brings a deep focus on Cultural Fluency, the ability to interpret and react to real-world shifts in real time. His career spans leading multicultural intelligence at Leo Burnett Chicago, operationalizing inclusive growth for top-tier clients, and serving as a higher-education lecturer at institutions like Chicago State University and UT San Antonio. Beyond the agency world, Henry serves on the Schreiner University Board of Directors and stays sharp through marathon training, urban farming, and sneaker culture, always balancing creative curiosity with bottom-line results.
AI, Market Research, and Advertising Insights Panel
AI is changing how advertisers gather and use consumer insights, but the value still comes down to what teams do with the information. In this panel, market research experts will discuss how AI is being used across the research process — from understanding audiences to shaping strategy, testing creative, and informing media decisions.
The conversation will look at where AI can move research faster, where experienced judgment still matters most, and how advertisers, marketers, and creatives can use these tools to make sharper decisions without losing the thinking behind the data.
For anyone responsible for strategy, creative, or campaign performance, this discussion offers a grounded look at what AI-driven research actually means for the work.