Zach Kitschke, the Global Chief Marketing Officer of Canva, has played a pivotal role in steering the trajectory of the online visual communication and collaboration platform. Since its inception in 2013, Canva has burgeoned into a powerhouse with over 170 million monthly users and more than 15 billion designs created, catering to a diverse array of individuals, businesses, and Fortune 500 companies.
Having joined Canva as its fifth employee, Kitschke's journey with the company has been marked by versatility and dedication. From his humble beginnings, where he dabbled in product management, communications, and human resources, Kitschke has ascended to oversee Canva's expansive marketing efforts across consumer, B2B, and international domains.
Under his stewardship, Canva's marketing ecosystem has flourished, encompassing product marketing, PR and communications, brand and performance marketing, creative endeavors, marketing technology, research, data, and growth initiatives. His strategic vision and leadership have earned him accolades, including recognition as one of Forbes' Most Influential CMOs and Business Insider's Most Innovative CMOs.
Kitschke's journey to Canva is a testament to his innate passion for media and communications. Following his graduation from high school, he embarked on a path that led him through internships with the ABC and the Wollongong City Council before delving into the world of tech startups at the tender age of 22.
His fortuitous encounter with Canva’s co-founders, Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, paved the way for his entry into the company. Despite initial uncertainties, Kitschke's unwavering determination and proactive approach endeared him to Perkins and Obrecht, leading to his eventual full-time employment at Canva.
Kitschke's tenure at Canva coincides with the company's meteoric rise, culminating in a valuation of $55 billion and a user base of 60 million monthly users. Yet, amidst Canva's unprecedented success, Kitschke remains committed to the company's ethos of giving back to the community.
Canva's philanthropic endeavors, including the donation of 30 percent of earnings to charitable causes and providing free services to over 10 million not-for-profit organizations, teachers, and students worldwide, underscore its commitment to social responsibility.
As Kitschke aptly puts it, Canva's mission transcends mere profitability; it is about creating lasting impact and effecting positive change in the world. With Kitschke at the helm of Canva's global marketing efforts, the company is poised to continue its journey of empowerment, innovation, and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of visual communication and beyond.