Henry Cadena

Cultural Insights & Brand Strategy Director
Leo Burnett Chicago
Henry Cadena

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.

The Session

Market Research Panel

Panel

Friday 2:30 PM · Panel