Her Story
About Miranda
Miranda Luikens is a Marketing Project Manager with approximately eight years of experience developing strategic marketing initiatives, leading creative teams, and improving operational processes. Throughout her career, she has progressed through roles including Marketing Specialist, Creative Producer, Marketing Manager, and her current position, where she designs scalable marketing workflows and project management systems that support high-performing teams. Her expertise includes campaign management, licensing coordination, international localization, brand strategy, and building efficient processes through platforms such as Monday.com.
A graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College, where she earned her bachelor's degree with Magna Cum Laude honors, Miranda combines analytical thinking with creative problem-solving to develop data-driven marketing strategies that deliver measurable results. She has successfully implemented high-performing email marketing campaigns, developed audience personas that significantly increased volunteer engagement, and led marketing initiatives supporting Minnesota's largest nonprofit gala, which raised more than $1 million. Her work has also contributed to major projects, including the 2026 Galactic Championship for Star Wars Unlimited, while continually advancing toward her long-term goal of becoming a Marketing Director.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Miranda is passionate about creativity, storytelling, and lifelong learning. A published poet and horse enthusiast, she credits diverse life experiences—including time spent working at a horse stable—with shaping her collaborative leadership style and people-first approach. As a member of Women in Toys (WIT) and a recognized Influential Women honoree representing Minnesota for 2026, Miranda remains committed to leading with kindness, empowering others, and creating meaningful marketing experiences that strengthen brands and communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Miranda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence, determination, and the willingness to advocate for myself. Throughout my career, many of the opportunities I have received came because I was willing to step forward and ask for them directly instead of waiting for them to come to me. I believe that being proactive, staying resilient, and continuously pursuing growth have been the driving forces behind my professional journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I have ever received came while working with horse trainers: "You can't hate a horse for being a horse." That lesson taught me to accept people for who they are instead of expecting them to be someone they are not. By understanding different personalities and working with people based on their strengths, I have become a better communicator, collaborator, and leader.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to have confidence in themselves and never hesitate to ask for the opportunities they deserve. Too often, talented women underestimate their abilities, while others confidently pursue opportunities regardless of their experience. If you allow yourself even a fraction of that confidence, you will be much more comfortable advocating for yourself, pursuing leadership roles, and achieving your goals. Believe in your value and don't be afraid to ask for what you want.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in marketing today is adapting to constantly changing business conditions, including tariffs, international shipping issues, and evolving global markets. Success requires flexibility, resilience, and the ability to pivot quickly when circumstances change. At the same time, I believe one of the greatest opportunities is creating immersive event marketing experiences that build meaningful connections, strengthen communities, and deliver memorable brand experiences for customers.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Kindness is the most important value I bring to both my work and personal life. Leading with kindness helps build trust, strengthen partnerships, and create positive relationships, even during difficult situations. I believe that treating people with empathy and respect not only leads to better collaboration but also allows me to navigate challenges with integrity and without regret.
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