MERGE Continues Growth Trajectory with Strategic Additions to Leadership
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MERGE, a leading marketing and technology agency, announces two strategic hires to strengthen and further accelerate its mission of integrated growth and innovation. Heidi West steps into the role of Chief Revenue Officer, and John Bracey joins MERGE as Chief Data and Performance Officer. These accomplished executives bring decades of experience and expertise, fortifying the agency's leadership team as it continues to expand at the intersection of health and wellness.
MERGE announces two strategic hires to strengthen and further accelerate its mission of integrated growth and innovation: Heidi West and John Bracey.
Heidi West, MERGE's new Chief Revenue Officer, offers over 30 years of exceptional sales leadership and a history of delivering impactful technology solutions across healthcare, including at CommonSpirit Health, Englewood Health, Mount Sinai Health System, Stanford Health Care, and other diverse industries. Most recently leading the healthcare team at Zoom, West has held sales and leadership roles at Cisco, Nutanix, and Booz Allen.
"I am incredibly excited to join MERGE at such a pivotal time," said West. "I look forward to leveraging my experience in healthcare and technology to help MERGE bridge the gap between health and consumer verticals. By focusing on improving patient engagement and experience, we can deliver trusted, relatable solutions guided by AI and data-driven strategies for our clients and their audiences.'
West's background in healthcare and executive engagement, combined with her talent for building high-performing sales teams aligned with strategic goals, makes her an invaluable catalyst for strategic growth. Commenting on this significant leadership addition, Stephanie Trunzo, MERGE CEO, remarked, 'While leading Oracle Health, I met Heidi in her role driving the health business at Zoom. Her extensive experience in the health industry, coupled with her strategic sales expertise and sincere approach will catalyze the outcome-oriented momentum of our client service and business development teams.' Beyond her professional achievements, West is a passionate advocate for women in technology and STE(A)M initiatives.
John Bracey, a visionary in data science and analytics, brings an impressive track record of transforming global brands into organizations driven by insight. Formerly EVP at Publicis Groupe, Bracey spearheaded data-driven transformation initiatives across a number of Publicis Groupe's largest consumer and healthcare brands.
'My expertise lies where data science and strategy meet. I'm passionate about helping brands maximize the value of their data and media investments, whether by engineering insight or architecting performance,' said Bracey. 'Across industries, I've seen that an audience-first approach consistently drives better insights and stronger outcomes. At MERGE, I look forward to continuing this work, turning complex data into automated, actionable solutions that deliver measurable business outcomes.'
'John's ability to harness data to transform businesses will substantively enhance how we deliver personalized, meaningful solutions that unite people and brands. These data-smart offerings will be the electricity that runs through creative and tech implementations to identify, optimize, and predictively model impact. We're incredibly excited about the amplified innovation he will bring to MERGE,' said Trunzo.
The West and Bracey appointments further accelerate MERGE's strategic leadership expansion, building on the other significant executive announcements this year beginning with Stephanie Trunzo's announcement as CEO, and including Erica Denner (Chief People Officer), Kyle Smith (CTO), Paul Buranosky (CMO), and Chris Esposito (CFO).
About MERGE
MERGE is a marketing and technology agency built for the intersection of health and wellness. We combine deep expertise in health and consumer behavior with strategy, creativity, experience technology, and digital marketing to design personalized experiences that drive meaningful results.
Powered by human insight, creativity, and AI, we weave storytelling through technology to turn complexity into clarity — strengthening relationships between people and brands.
With 750+ specialists across Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Kansas City, Los Angeles, New York, and Raleigh, MERGE partners with leading brands like Abbott, GE Healthcare, American Express, T-Mobile, Coach, and Meta to advance health, wellness, and happiness.
Learn more at mergeworld.com.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Wire
an hour ago
- Business Wire
Güntner Drives Group-Wide Innovation in 2024 Sustainability Report
FÜRSTENFELDBRUCK, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Güntner, a global leader in refrigeration and heat exchange technology, today announced its featured role in the newly released 2024 A-HEAT Sustainability Report. The report outlines significant progress toward ambitious environmental goals—fueled by Güntner's commitment to measurable, innovation-led sustainability. Working toward its 2030 sustainability targets, Güntner delivered significant achievements across key areas including natural refrigeration integration, water and energy efficiency and the development of circular economy solutions. These efforts reflect Güntner's ongoing mission to make sustainability not just a goal, but a core driver of innovation. Key milestones include a near-complete transition to natural refrigerants across its product portfolio and continued investment in energy- and water-saving technologies at its global manufacturing facilities. 'Over the past few years, the way we talk about sustainability has changed,' said Christian Weiser, CEO of Güntner. 'At Güntner, we have always approached sustainability with clarity. For us, it has never been about doing more, it has been about doing what matters, and that means focusing on impact.' Highlights from the 2024 report include: Launch of the Impact° Label: Güntner's Impact° label helps customers easily identify sustainable solutions, ranging from energy-efficient systems to products designed with natural refrigerants. First-Ever Impact Summit: In September 2024, Güntner hosted its inaugural Impact Summit in Budapest, bringing together nearly 190 customers from 36 countries. The three-day event showcased sustainable innovations and cross-industry collaboration, from AI-ready data center solutions to high-efficiency cold storage systems. Advancing Natural Refrigerants: Güntner is years ahead of schedule, with nearly all products already compatible with natural refrigerants like CO₂ and ammonia. A CO₂-compatible version of its GADV product family will launch in 2025, supporting the Group's collective goal of achieving full portfolio readiness by 2030. Water Efficiency: Freshwater extraction has been reduced by nearly 20% since 2021, with a 30% efficiency improvement targeted by 2030. Güntner is helping drive this progress through continued investment in water-saving technologies across its global facilities. Pioneering Circular Economy Collaboration: In partnership with Circular Republic, Güntner is helping to launch the industry's first product manufactured under circular economy principles. This effort includes design innovation, material reuse and multi-stakeholder partnerships focused on long-term sustainability. These achievements are part of a broader Group-wide effort to reduce water and energy consumption, improve emissions performance and engage employees across all regions to build a more sustainable future. To view the full report and learn more about Güntner's sustainability initiatives, visit About Güntner Güntner is a world-leading company in the manufacture of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment components. With more than 4,000 employees, offices in over 50 countries, and six manufacturing plants across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, the company shows a strong presence in all markets. Decades of experience in the industry and the consistent integration of the latest technologies and research findings ensure the high-quality standard of Güntner solutions. From fresh food and comfortable indoor temperatures in office buildings to data center solutions and energy production – Güntner plays an essential part in our daily lives.
USA Today
6 hours ago
- USA Today
At Oakmont, Mike Whan doubles down on golf ball rollback: 'We're full-speed ahead'
At Oakmont, Mike Whan doubles down on golf ball rollback: 'We're full-speed ahead' Mike Whan made it clear that despite resistance from the PGA Tour and equipment manufacturers, the governing body is moving forward. With the U.S. Open returning to Oakmont Country Club this week, USGA CEO Mike Whan made it clear that despite resistance from the PGA Tour and equipment manufacturers, the governing body is moving forward with its plans to roll back golf ball performance beginning in 2028. Speaking Wednesday during a pre-tournament press conference, Whan acknowledged the anxiety and controversy surrounding the USGA and R&A's distance-reducing protocols — but he also emphasized the industry needs to take a long-term view. 'We're full-speed ahead on what we've announced,' Whan said. 'Those decisions have been made.' The goal, Whan reiterated, is not to take anything away from the game now but to slow the pace of distance gains that have steadily reshaped men's professional and elite amateur golf over the past decades. 'I get this isn't easy, and everybody has got their own constituents.' What said. 'As an industry, we have to be able to make small adjustments that are in the best interest of the game long-term, that we all know would be better 40 years from now if we were smart enough to make them today.' What's actually changing — and why it matters Starting in January 2028, golf ball manufacturers will have to design their balls to comply with new testing parameters under the Overall Distance Standard (ODS). Instead of testing at a clubhead speed of 120 mph, with a launch angle of 10 degrees and spin rate around 2,520 rpm, the new protocol, the test robot will swing a titanium test club at 125 mph, create an 11-degree launch angle and 2,200 rpm of spin. Under the 2028 testing guidelines, nearly all of today's premium golf balls would be non-conforming, so manufacturers will need to create new balls before 2028 that are slower or produce less distance in order to be deemed conforming and legal for play. To ease the transition, amateur golfers won't be held to the new rules until January 2030, allowing manufacturers and retailers time to adjust stock. Pushback from the pros Since the plan was announced in December, 2023, the idea of changing how golf balls are tested and mandating the use of reduced-distance golf balls has drawn criticism from several corners of the golf world. The PGA Tour, which initially supported a previous version of the rollback under a Model Local Rule, has seemed to reverse course and has not publicly endorsed the finalized rule. Golfweek's Adam Schupak spoke in March with PGA Tour player Brian Harman, who is a member of the tour's Player Advisory Board, and he said, 'I think it's a bad idea. I can't get on board. There are so many more steps we can take to mitigate distance with golf course setup, driver set up before you force companies to R&D a bunch of things.' Whan, who previously served as commissioner of the LPGA Tour and who was an executive vice president with TaylorMade, didn't downplay the tensions involved. But he said discussions between governing bodies and stakeholders have been productive. 'I'm encouraged by the collaborative nature of the discussions,' he said. 'Not everybody will like it. It'll be high anxiety until we get there. But nobody is going to die. The game is going to be great.' A move for the future Whan was asked directly whether the USGA would move ahead with the rollback even if professional tours and ball manufacturers don't support it. His answer left little room for ambiguity. 'This is our job as governance,' Whan said. 'We don't have the same conflicts and contracts and biases. And it's not a fun one.' Whan referenced conversations he's had with Jack Nicklaus, a longtime proponent of rolling back distance in golf. While Nicklaus recently said he'd be willing to 'freeze' current performance levels rather than roll them back, Whan suggested the USGA's plan essentially accomplishes that — just over a longer time frame. 'If you want to keep the distance where it is today, this action that we're talking about is essentially that,' Whan said. 'Maybe in 10 or 15 years, it will feel like the growth of that curve is pretty slow as opposed to the pace we're dealing with today.' Holding the line At its core, Whan said, the USGA's motivation isn't about nostalgia or pleasing any one constituency. It's about taking the long view, even if the benefits won't be obvious for a decade or more. 'We'll be handing [future generations] something we could have made small adjustments on,' Whan said. 'And we will.' The first U.S. Open where the rollback would take effect is expected to be in 2028 — at Pebble Beach, one of the shortest courses on the current major championship rotation. For Whan, the message is clear: The rollback is coming, and the USGA isn't waiting for everyone to agree.
Time Business News
7 hours ago
- Time Business News
Unlocking Growth: How Online Business Coaching Fuels Motivation and Consistency
The Rise of Online Business Coaching In a world driven by digital transformation, business coaching has evolved beyond boardrooms and coffee shop meetups. Online small business marketing consultant is no longer just an alternative—it's fast becoming the preferred choice for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to scale their efforts, sharpen their focus, and stay committed to long-term goals. With flexibility, accessibility, and a tailored approach, digital coaching platforms empower individuals to stay on track, remain motivated, and build momentum over time. Why Motivation Wanes in Business Motivation is often misunderstood as a constant force. In reality, it's fleeting. It surges in moments of clarity and fades in periods of doubt or burnout. Entrepreneurs, especially solopreneurs or small business owners, are particularly susceptible to these fluctuations. They juggle multiple roles, face continuous challenges, and work in high-pressure environments where wins might be delayed and setbacks frequent. Without the right support system, these factors can cause even the most driven individuals to lose steam. This is where business coach san francisco bay area enters—not just as a remedy but as a proactive solution to help entrepreneurs harness consistent, purpose-driven motivation. The Role of a Business Coach A business coach offers more than advice—they provide a structured path to clarity and growth. Their role includes helping clients: Set actionable goals Maintain accountability Identify roadblocks and offer solutions Reframe limiting beliefs Celebrate wins and learn from setbacks In the online setting, this relationship becomes even more powerful. With tools like Zoom, Slack, Trello, or private learning portals, communication and tracking become seamless. Clients can engage from anywhere, and coaches can offer support when it's most needed—not just during scheduled sessions. Building Motivation from Within One of the biggest misconceptions about motivation is that it comes from external rewards. While rewards can be helpful, lasting motivation is rooted in internal alignment. Business coaches help individuals discover what truly drives them—whether it's freedom, impact, legacy, or creative fulfillment. Once that internal compass is set, staying motivated becomes less about forcing progress and more about aligning daily actions with core values. Through techniques like vision crafting, journaling, and progress tracking, online coaches guide clients to stay connected to their 'why.' When this sense of purpose is clear, it becomes easier to push through challenges and stay inspired—even during hard seasons. The Power of Consistency While motivation gets people started, consistency is what builds results. Whether it's creating content, following up with leads, refining systems, or learning new skills—success in business comes down to repeated action over time. However, consistency is often a struggle. Life is busy. Self-doubt creeps in. Distractions multiply. Without accountability, it's easy to let days slide by without meaningful progress. Online business coaching introduces systems that promote consistency. Weekly check-ins, task-setting, and performance tracking help clients show up even when they don't feel like it. Over time, these small consistent actions compound into massive growth. Accountability Without Micromanagement One of the standout benefits of coaching is accountability—not in a controlling or micromanaging way, but through supportive guidance. Coaches act as mirrors and sounding boards. They ask the hard questions: Did you follow through on your commitment? If not, what got in the way? How can you adjust moving forward? With online platforms, this accountability becomes even more flexible. Clients can log wins, reflect on challenges, or message their coach between calls. This ongoing support creates a safety net, reducing the risk of falling off track unnoticed. Personalized Strategies for Sustainable Growth There's no one-size-fits-all approach to business, and online coaching recognizes that. Unlike generic courses or YouTube advice, a coach tailors their guidance to each client's unique strengths, business model, market, and personality. This personalization is critical for both motivation and consistency. When strategies align with how a person works best, they're far more likely to stay committed and energized. Online tools allow coaches to gather insights, assess performance, and adjust strategies in real-time. Whether it's tweaking a sales process, shifting a brand voice, or creating new content systems—customized strategies help reduce friction and keep clients engaged with the process. Breaking the Isolation Cycle One of the biggest challenges in entrepreneurship is isolation. Without coworkers or team meetings, it's easy to spiral into overthinking or lose clarity. Business coaches help break this cycle by offering regular connection and perspective. Online coaching ensures that even if you're working from a home office or a café halfway across the globe, you're not alone in your journey. The knowledge that someone is walking beside you—not just cheering you on, but guiding you forward—can reignite motivation and help build the habits that drive long-term success. Real-Life Momentum Through Online Coaching Consider this: a solopreneur feeling overwhelmed with marketing finally signs up with an online coach. Within weeks, they have a plan, they're executing tasks consistently, and they've launched a new offer. Or a coach who was stuck in content creation paralysis now posts regularly, thanks to weekly accountability and a streamlined workflow. These are not rare cases—they're everyday outcomes of structured coaching relationships. The combination of clarity, commitment, and support creates real momentum that self-led motivation rarely sustains alone. Making the Most of Online Coaching If you're considering investing in online business coaching, here are some tips to maximize your results: Be honest with your coach – Share your wins and your struggles – Share your wins and your struggles Stay open to feedback – Growth happens outside the comfort zone – Growth happens outside the comfort zone Commit to the process – Coaching works best when you show up consistently – Coaching works best when you show up consistently Use the tools provided – Leverage worksheets, trackers, and recordings – Leverage worksheets, trackers, and recordings Celebrate small wins – Progress is made one step at a time Remember, coaching is a partnership. The more engaged you are, the more powerful the results. Final Thoughts Online business coaching is more than a modern convenience—it's a dynamic pathway to cultivating sustainable motivation and long-term consistency. In an age where distraction is constant and overwhelm is common, having structured guidance, clear goals, and an accountability partner makes all the difference. Whether you're launching a startup, scaling a service-based business, or pivoting careers, online coaching offers the clarity, support, and systems needed to stay inspired and take consistent action. Because in business—as in life—motivation might light the fire, but consistency keeps it burning. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
