Five Questions with Jason Hunke

Jason Hunke

Director, Executive & Employee Communications, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

“… Purpose lies in the emotional connection you build with your audiences. It helps create the enabling environment in which you can do your best work.”

Our client, Jason Hunke, joined the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2016. A strategic communications ninja, Jason has a knack for impactful storytelling and compelling brand initiatives. He’s done it all, working across founder and family-led, philanthropic, global, CPG and entertainment organizations. Jason leads a team that comes to work every day energized by the opportunity to contribute to an organization whose purpose is laser focused on equalizing opportunity.

IN THREE WORDS, DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY.

Let others shine.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE BRAND PURPOSE?

My favorite definition of "brand" is that it is how people feel about and engage with an organization — it’s not about the organization itself. Further, purpose lies in the emotional connection you build with your audiences. It helps create the enabling environment in which you can do your best work — or even struggle to. The brand is the connection, not the thing itself.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN YOU GO WORK AND WHY?

Anyone who is selfless, kind, and funny gets my vote. We need more of all three in the world.

WHAT BOOK OR PODCAST ARE YOU ENJOYING RIGHT NOW?

One of my favorite recent fun reads was The Wolves of Winter. And for podcasts, I’m enjoying Sincerely X and Pod Save America.

IF YOU COULD BE ANY FICTIONAL SUPERHERO, WHO WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

I have always loved the Wonder Twins. They take on various shapes and forms to solve problems. A very useful and purpose-built superpower! Plus, who doesn't love siblings working together for the greater good?

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