Employee Spotlight: Kelsey McLaughlin, VP of Media at Applecart
Kelsey McLaughlin serves as Applecart’s VP of Media, where she leads the company’s team of digital media buyers and strategists that advise clients on how to optimize their media campaigns targeting Applecart’s audiences. Kelsey’s clients include Fortune 500 companies, major trade associations, presidential campaigns, and national nonprofits.
Tell us about what you did prior to joining Applecart:
Prior to my time at Applecart, I ran a media team at a digital advertising agency - working with major political campaigns, tech companies, advocacy organizations, and nonprofits.
Why did you decide to join Applecart?
In my previous job, I was a client of Applecart and I often recommended that my clients use Applecart audiences! Whether to share positive news stories with their own donors to help with fundraising, or to influence key members of Congress to pass legislation, Applecart was often a key part of our media plans. I thought the product and people I got to work with were super impressive, and joined the team in 2022.
What is your favorite Applecart use-case?
I’m always impressed by how our clients use Applecart audiences - thinking outside the box to find new and innovative use cases. My favorite, though, is using Applecart decision maker targeting to impact policymakers - most relevant to my background.
What should people outside of Applecart know about Applecart?
I was impressed to learn when I joined the team that Applecart builds a bespoke audience for each client - you’re not buying a pre-built, pre-set audience. Every client has a customized audience based on their needs and end goals.
Give us your best fun fact:
Despite a busy schedule and two small children at home, I make sure to hit “Genius” level on the New York Times Spelling Bee (almost) every day.
