EPISODE 29: EMILY K. HOWARD

Emily K. Howard is the founder and president of Cheetah Strategy, a strategic planning and brand consulting firm she launched in 2021. Beginning January 1, 2025, she will step into a new role as the Executive Director of the Economic Forum of Albuquerque, succeeding Kathie Winograd.

Emily brings years of experience across marketing, tourism, and strategic planning, having worked with organizations like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Visit Albuquerque, Esparza Advertising, and McKee Wallwork. She’s also the co-founder and co-host of Start Bragging, a volunteer-driven movement and podcast dedicated to shining a positive light on Albuquerque.

Her leadership philosophy is rooted in tenacity. In her piece “The Impact of Tenacity on Business Leadership” for American City Business Journals’ BizWomen, Emily defined tenacity as the fortitude it takes to keep pushing forward in business and leadership. It’s a mindset that has shaped her own journey and the way she leads.

The Economic Forum of Albuquerque is a member-based, non-partisan organization that convenes business, government, education, and civic leaders to strengthen the city’s future. As the Forum’s board chair Michael Stevens noted: “Emily’s dedication to Albuquerque, her strategic expertise and her ability to connect people and ideas make her the ideal candidate to lead the Economic Forum.”

Beyond her professional roles, Emily is a proud mom and wife, sports fan, pizza lover, occasional vodka gimlet drinker, weekend warrior, and a TCU alum/letterwinner. She brings both energy and authenticity to her work and life, and she’s passionate about building connections that elevate her community.