This conversation explores two launches: both in the same sector, during a global pandemic but targeting two very different groups. The Infiniti Motor Company recently  launched its QX55 and QX60 models and the pandemic opened opportunities to experiment with new launch strategies — and ultimately reboot its playbook. The discussion that features Wendy Orthman, Infiniti’s newly-promoted GM of global integrated brand, marketing and communications, in addition to Stephanie Friess, SVP at imre.

Topics Covered:  02:02 Orthman on moving to Japan to join Infiniti just as Covid-19 enveloped the world  04:33 Friess draws parallels between automotive and beauty, retail & lifestyle  06:04 The QX 55 launch — and the unexpected pandemic pivot  08:12 How lockdown allowed the team to take unprecedented risks  11:20 How to replicate the sensory experience of buying a car during the pandemic 12:49 Rethinking exec comms around the ‘no suits rule’  15:03 ‘It takes a village’ - a new way to approach the marketing mix  18:43 Getting real about the role of celebs vs more accessible influencers  21:00 How the ‘Claire’ persona for QX60 still included multicultural nuance 25:11 Lessons learned on integration