Ann Arbor SPARK has hired Jennifer Hayman to serve as senior vice president of marketing, communications and events. In this executive role, Hayman will spearhead marketing and communication efforts across the organization. Prior to this role, Hayman served as the director of marketing at Ann Arbor-based Human Element.
“Regional development and economic growth have surged in the past year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. “Jennifer’s extensive experience marketing diverse organizations across southeast Michigan is a significant asset to the organization and we are excited to bring her expertise and leadership to Ann Arbor SPARK.”
Before joining SPARK, Hayman also served as the director of marketing and communications for Zingerman’s Service Network, a shared service organization supporting the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses. There, Hayman honed her experience in communication and brand development to help Zingerman’s businesses create and execute strategic marketing campaigns, increase market share and leverage customer loyalty.
Hayman’s previous experience in the Ann Arbor region also includes serving as marketing director for Merit Network, a nonprofit that facilitates high-performance networking and cybersecurity services to research and education communities. She has also served as marketing manager for Hayden-McNeil Publishing along with marketing manager for the Association for Advancing Automation (formerly the Automation Technologies Council). Ann Arbor SPARK offers programming and assistance to growing businesses in Washtenaw and Livingston counties. It has startup facilities in downtown Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor, providing desk and office space, mentorship through curated programs led by regional business leaders, guidance on attracting angel investors and venture capitalists, events designed for entrepreneurs and grants to help fund bootstrapped entrepreneurs achieve business milestones. It also works with companies expanding or locating in the region.
