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From Toronto roots to leading campaigns at Shopify, Melissa Sanasie blends creativity with data to shape the future of digital marketing while mentoring the next generation of talent.
In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, few professionals have carved a path as dynamic and influential as Melissa Sanasie. With over a decade of experience, Melissa has become a powerhouse in the field—blending strategy, creativity, and data-driven insight to help brands grow and connect with their audiences.
Currently a Marketing Manager at Shopify, Melissa leads multi-channel marketing initiatives focused on customer acquisition, engagement, and retention. But her journey to the forefront of Canada’s digital marketing scene began long before her tenure at one of the world’s most innovative commerce platforms.
A Toronto-Born Marketer With Global Vision
Growing up in Toronto, Melissa discovered her passion for marketing early. Her curiosity about how brands communicate and solve problems led her to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing Management at Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University).
While studying, she immersed herself in real-world marketing through internships at local agencies. These hands-on experiences in content strategy, social media, and analytics laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of marketing excellence.
“Those early internships taught me a lot,” Melissa recalls. “I saw how fast digital marketing was evolving and knew I had to keep learning.”
To stay competitive, Melissa earned certifications in Google Analytics, Google Ads, and digital strategy—skills that would soon become cornerstones of her professional success.
From Retail to Banking: Gaining a 360-Degree Perspective
Melissa’s first major break came at the Hudson’s Bay Company, one of Canada’s leading retailers. As a Marketing Coordinator, she managed social media, executed campaigns, and led one of the company’s earliest influencer collaborations, driving significant brand awareness.
After three impactful years in retail, Melissa transitioned to the financial sector, joining RBC as a Senior Digital Marketing Specialist. There, she honed her skills in performance marketing, paid advertising, and automation.
“RBC gave me a deeper understanding of performance marketing,” she explains. “I learned how to measure success in real-time and adjust strategies based on data.”
Thriving at Shopify: Innovation Meets Impact
In 2021, Melissa took on a new challenge as a Marketing Manager at Shopify. Her role includes everything from SEO and content marketing to social media strategy and influencer partnerships.
Her results speak volumes. A content-driven campaign she led boosted organic traffic by 60% in just one year, and a social media strategy she developed significantly enhanced engagement and improved brand sentiment.
“We’re not just marketing a product—we’re helping entrepreneurs build their businesses,” Melissa explains. “That’s what makes the work so rewarding.”
Strategy Meets Storytelling
Melissa’s approach to marketing is rooted in a unique balance between art and science. While she champions the power of storytelling, she believes data must guide decisions.
“Marketing is part art, part science,” she says. “The best campaigns come from understanding both the numbers and the emotions behind them.”
Her technical toolbox includes HubSpot, Salesforce, Marketo, and advanced analytics tools—enabling her to craft campaigns that are not only compelling but also measurable and scalable.
Giving Back and Building the Future
Beyond her professional achievements, Melissa is passionate about giving back. She’s an active member of Toronto’s marketing community, speaking at events like Social Media Week Toronto and the Canadian Digital Marketing Conference. She also mentors young professionals, particularly women entering the industry.
“I had great mentors when I was starting out,” she says. “Now, I want to do the same for others.”
Her insights have been featured in leading business blogs and marketing publications, further establishing her as a thought leader in the industry.
Life Outside the Office
While marketing is a major part of Melissa’s identity, she also values balance. She enjoys traveling, fitness, and exploring Toronto’s food scene. She also supports local mentorship programs for young women in business.
“Traveling helps me see new perspectives, and staying active keeps me balanced.”
Always Evolving, Always Learning
With digital marketing in constant flux, Melissa remains a student of the craft—always learning, experimenting, and refining her approach.
“The best marketers never stop learning,” she says. “That’s what keeps this industry so exciting.”
As Melissa continues to lead and inspire, her story is a reminder that the heart of great marketing lies in curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to connecting people with purpose.
