Kira Karlstrom (US)
Kira Karlstrom is a former Professional Basketball player turned Emmy Award Winning marketing executive and creative director renowned for her exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry. With a distinguished career spanning more than 15 years, Kira is well-known for her unwavering commitment, passion, and unrelenting dedication to advancing the narrative paradigm, ceaselessly pushing the boundaries of creative storytelling to effect meaningful and transformative change.
As the Head of Label Relations, Content Development & Programming for Twitch, Kira’s astute strategic vision and impactful contributions have played a pivotal role in forging a distinctive trajectory within the music industry. Specifically, she has been instrumental in advancing the landscape of live-streaming for artists who are dedicated to cultivating, engaging, and expanding their foundational fanbase, thereby fostering an environment conducive to sustained growth and success.
Through creativity and relationships, she has helped to break down barriers between music and gaming, cultivating an environment for artists to flourish. She also serves as the key connector and creative strategist, pioneering sponsorships and sales to drive incremental revenue for artists and music brands.
Notably, Kira has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists and gaming developers such as Zara Larsson, Steve Aoki, Tori Kelly, Macklemore, Riot Games, EA Sports, and more. In addition to working with individual artists, she has also led the launch and growth of Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group label channels on platform. Kira has not only spearheaded their first foray into livestreaming but has emerged as an inspiring leader helping to shape the future of music in the digital landscape.
Prior to joining Twitch, Kira held prominent roles at Capitol Music Group, ComcastNBCU, Marvel Entertainment, and ESPN. During her corporate tenure, she has been instrumental in propelling revenue growth, leading the creative development, and orchestrating the execution of numerous award-winning 360 marketing campaigns, including iconic properties such as The Marvel Universe, The Olympics, The World Cup, and SportsCenter. Apart from properties, she has also curated brand campaigns for top-tier talents such as Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, Migos, Lil Baby, Sam Smith, and others, affirming her expertise in delivering impactful and successful initiatives.
Kira’s academic achievements include an Entertainment Masters Degree from FullSail University and a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design from Drexel University. Currently residing in the vibrant locale of West Hollywood, California, she is not only dedicated to her career but also passionate about exploring new destinations, immersing herself in literature, and maintaining an active lifestyle.