I’m Shanika Hillocks — a brand operator and integrated marketing strategist with nearly two decades at the intersection of hospitality and culture. I partner with brands and funded founders to build brands that are culturally intelligent, commercially sound, and made to last.

My career spans front-of-house, agency, in-house, and founder roles, each one deepening what I understand about building a brand that moves culture, collaborates well, and drives the business. I was part of the founding team at HONE Talent, a culinary talent agency, where I brokered over $1M in brand deals in year one. I’ve led enterprise go-to-market strategy for Ama at The Atlas—the flagship restaurant of Tishman Speyer’s first hotel—run national creator programs for Walmart and Jordan Brand, and produced hospitality experiences for the inaugural Blue Note Jazz Festival, Hennessy, and Louis XIII. With dual fluency in the creator economy, I’ve worked as both influencer strategist and on-camera talent, partnering with Resy, Delta, and Allianz, among others.

My perspective is shaped by more than strategy frameworks. It’s built from years as a traveler, curator, and connector. I understand how culture moves, how taste is formed, and how brands earn genuine relevance. That curatorial sensibility runs through everything I build.

Recognition:

• Wine Enthusiast, 40 Under 40 Tastemaker 2021

• Features in Domino, Homeworthy, The Strategist, among others

• Bylines in Condé Nast Traveler, Seven Fifty Daily, Fathom and more

• Author of Let's Eat, NYC's Food Guide, commissioned by Apple Maps