Katie Colleen Hickey
Katie Colleen Hickey is the Owner of KCH Consulting, LLC and the Executive Director of Bach Collegium San Diego, a distinguished leader, award-winning entrepreneur, and innovator in the creative, strategic, marketing, and nonprofit sectors. Her work has earned her recognition as a Women in Leadership Award honoree and a Performing Arts Star Award recipient, affirming her impact on arts and culture. Katie curates exclusive, luxury, and transformative experiences in music, events, and community engagement, combining artistry with strategic vision to inspire and connect audiences.
With a Master’s degree in Arts Administration & Cultural Policy from Goldsmiths, University of London, and a Bachelor of Music in Music Industry and Voice from James Madison University, Katie blends artistic passion with exceptional leadership skills. Her career demonstrates deep expertise in development, publicity, event and project management, sales, and social media strategy. Katie’s dedication to fostering collaboration, creativity, and excellence has earned her a reputation as a respected innovator and leader in her field.
Katie’s professional journey is defined by her commitment to innovation, community, and lasting impact. Under her leadership, Bach Collegium San Diego continues to flourish as a vibrant hub for music and culture, celebrating artistic excellence and deepening community engagement. Through KCH Consulting, LLC, Katie applies her unique expertise to design one-of-a-kind experiences that leave lasting impressions. Her career reflects her belief in the power of creativity, perseverance, and strategic vision to transform ideas into extraordinary realities.
• Goldsmiths, University of London - MA
• James Madison University - BM
• AOCSO/ Music America/ Advisor on board for south loudoun youth chorus
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of persistence, adaptability, creativity, and perseverance. Persistence has allowed me to stay committed to my goals even when faced with obstacles, while adaptability has enabled me to navigate changing circumstances with resilience. Creativity fuels my ability to approach challenges from unique perspectives, finding innovative solutions where others may see barriers. Above all, perseverance has kept me moving forward, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth and ensuring that I continuously strive toward excellence.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to trust the process, even when I didn’t fully understand it at the time. Looking back, I realize it taught me patience, openness to learning, and the importance of embracing uncertainty as part of growth. That advice became a foundation for approaching my career with confidence, curiosity, and resilience, guiding me through challenges I hadn’t anticipated.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to never take “no” for an answer. Keep pushing forward, because it can’t hurt to try. Don’t underestimate your own abilities; confidence in yourself is a powerful tool. Equally important is prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, as sustaining both personal well-being and professional ambition is essential for long-term success and fulfillment.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is imposter syndrome. Many talented professionals struggle with self-doubt, feeling they aren’t deserving of their achievements despite evidence to the contrary. This can hinder confidence, limit opportunities, and slow career growth. However, addressing imposter syndrome also presents a powerful opportunity—to foster stronger self-belief, create supportive networks, and empower individuals to step into their full potential.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are having amazing colleagues, mentors, and a strong support system. These relationships foster growth, inspire confidence, and create an environment where collaboration and learning thrive. Surrounding myself with people who challenge, encourage, and uplift me not only enhances my professional journey but also enriches my personal life, making success more meaningful and fulfilling.