INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers today announced Salena Scardina has been named executive vice president of external engagement for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). Scardina most recently served as chief customer success officer for Herff Jones, the achievement division of Varsity Brands and a provider of graduation and educational products and services.
“Salena has built her career around improving the customer experience and will bring a fresh approach to the IEDC,” said Sec. Chambers. “A critical part of our continuing economic development success is elevating Indiana’s compelling story in a way that helps attract and retain more business and talent to the state, and I’m confident Salena’s skillset will ensure our success with these efforts.”
In her role, Scardina will oversee the marketing, brand and communications divisions.
Scardina brings to the IEDC more than 20 years’ worth of corporate expertise in elevating the customer experience. Most recently, she led a team to evolve the Herff Jones brand experience throughout the customer journey. In 2018, she founded HeroCX, a management consultancy firm, and helped transform the customer service function for leading organizations such as HanesBrands and Crate & Barrel, where she also helped launch the company’s work-at-home program.
Scardina has also held senior leadership roles at Fort Wayne-based Sweetwater Sound, a national music technology and instrument retailer, and international handbag and accessories company Vera Bradley, in addition to multiple customer engagement and experience positions during her 15-year tenure at McDonald’s Corporation.
Scardina currently chairs the board of directors for the Greater Fort Wayne YMCA where she leads the executive committee. She previously served on the boards of the International Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals and Northeast Indiana Public Radio.
Scardina is a graduate of Monmouth College and Benedictine University. She resides in Fort Wayne with her husband and two children after moving to Indiana from Illinois 10 years ago.
