Maarika Mann

I am a creative leader, product developer, and marketing professional with more than 15 years of experience spanning fashion, consumer products, brand strategy, and community engagement.

My background includes over a decade as Creative Director and Product Developer for BANDED, where I led the full product lifecycle from concept through production and launch. I designed and developed fashion accessories, athleisure-inspired products, knitwear, performance fabric collections, and textile patterns, translating creative concepts into production-ready products through hand sketching, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and detailed technical specifications. I worked closely with domestic and international manufacturing partners on sourcing, material development, fit considerations, quality control, and product execution while managing timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships.

In addition to product development, I directed brand campaigns, photoshoots, merchandising strategies, and retail partnerships, helping secure placement with major retailers including Walmart, Walgreens, Whole Foods, and Publix. My experience has given me a strong understanding of consumer trends, product positioning, and how thoughtful design translates into successful commercial products.

Today, as Marketing & Community Outreach Manager for Housing Opportunities of Northern Kentucky, I continue to lead strategic storytelling, brand development, digital marketing, and community engagement initiatives. This role has strengthened my ability to connect with audiences, build meaningful relationships, and create mission-driven communications that inspire action.

What excites me most about this swimwear brand is the opportunity to combine my product development expertise, understanding of performance and lifestyle markets, creative vision, and brand-building experience to help grow a company that is creating products women love to wear. I thrive in entrepreneurial environments where collaboration, innovation, and a strong connection to the customer drive both product and business success.