Susan English

Learning Stage | What Women Think, Feel and Loathe About Marketing Today

Susan English knows that to truly connect with women, you have to know them—not just as a demographic, but as whole, complex human beings. In her role as SVP, Director of Strategic Communications at Gatesman agency, Susan leads initiatives that merge data and human perspective, including Women ReKNOWN, a groundbreaking national study that reveals how women’s self-concept, priorities, and needs are shifting in 2025, and what that means for marketers, leaders, and communities.

With 25+ years of leadership in strategic communications, advertising/brand management, public relations and reputation management, Susan has helped companies “hack human behavior” to spark engagement, shape perceptions and drive action. Her work has guided long-standing client partnerships and earned national recognition for both creativity and impact.

Passionate about creating meaningful and enduring change, Susan co-founded the Pittsburgh Youth Mental Health Alliance, serves on the board of St. Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind, and helped launch the One Young World Pittsburgh Partnership. Known for blending sharp strategic thinking with warmth and candor, Susan brings an energy that makes people lean in, whether in a boardroom, a brainstorm, or on stage.