Lisa Datka

Lisa Datka

Chief Marketing Officer at Early Learning Academies

Joining the Severn Leadership Group (SLG) as an SLG Fellow in 2022, Lisa now serves on the Board of Directors as of November 2022.

About

Lisa Datka

Lisa Datka is an entrepreneurial leader with deep knowledge and creativity in developing marketing campaigns, product launches, and sales strategies for education, software, and technology companies in early childhood education and K-20 markets. A passionate mentor, excellent communicator, and team player who motivates and inspires others. Ms. Datka’s expert analytical skills and proven track record of leading teams consistently achieves results-driven business goals with a collaborative spirit. 

As Chief Marketing Officer of Early Learning Academies (a Pansophic Learning company), Datka developed a modern, data-driven lead generation strategy that resulted in a 155% increase in new leads within her first year. By conducting market research, competitive analysis, and stakeholder interviews, Datka created an immersive customer journey, including digital and physical touchpoints. To increase conversion through a centralized enrollment center model, opportunities were identified, and a six-month pilot resulted in the test group outpacing same size groups in tour quality, quantity, and enrollment. 

As Director of Marketing for Vernier Science Education, Datka modernized the marketing organization and created strategies to establish Vernier as a premier provider of STEM software and technology in the K-20 market. She developed and executed a complete brand evolution, including persona development, messaging frameworks, and a redesigned e-commerce website to align with the customer journey. Her leadership for this company increased middle school leads by 25% through market research, webinars, earned media, and a refocused event strategy. 

Datka graduated with High Honors from Portland State University (PSU), Bachelor of Social Science. She continues as an expert and content provider for PSU Center for Professional Education. She was the Stevie Gold Winner for Small budget Campaign of the Year: Code-a-Thon and EDM Awards Gold Winner: Total digital marketing program.

Past experience