The marketing and entertainment industry is reeling from the sudden loss of Stevie Benjamin, a highly respected strategist, innovator, and leader in digital marketing and brand strategy. Stevie, who served as Chief Strategy Advisor at AIM Productions, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, leadership, and purpose that profoundly impacted every brand and person she worked with.
For over two decades, Stevie Benjamin dedicated her career to transforming marketing through the perfect balance of creativity, technology, and human insight. Her approach was always consumer-first — she believed the heart of any successful campaign began with understanding people. This philosophy guided her work as she helped shape some of America’s most recognizable brands, including Target, MillerCoors, and Verizon, crafting digital marketing and media strategies that blended storytelling with innovation.
At AIM Productions, Inc., Stevie played a vital role in leading the company’s strategic direction. AIM Productions, a trailblazer in branded entertainment, has been pioneering product placement for over 40 years, connecting major brands with audiences through film, television, and streaming platforms. Stevie’s contributions helped the company strengthen its global footprint and expand its 360-degree integration programs, making brands not just seen — but remembered. Her influence could be seen behind high-profile product placements, such as Coors’ involvement in the hit series “Yellowstone” and “Cobra Kai”, where her strategic insight seamlessly connected products with pop culture moments that resonated with viewers.
Before joining AIM Productions, Stevie Benjamin held senior leadership roles across several major organizations. She served as Senior Vice President of Digital Marketing at Wingstop, where she led transformative digital initiatives and media strategies that elevated the brand’s presence across online platforms. During her two years with Wingstop, Stevie helped redefine the company’s approach to engaging customers in a fast-changing digital landscape.
Her career also included positions as Vice President of Media at Discover Financial Services, where she leveraged data and technology to drive measurable business outcomes, and as a Media Consultant for Bojangles’ Restaurants, Inc., helping guide the Southern food chain’s marketing and media strategies during a critical growth phase.
Across each of her professional experiences, Stevie Benjamin was known for her signature strengths: strategic leadership, adaptability, and relationship building. She was a rare combination of analytical thinker and creative visionary — someone who could simultaneously interpret data and craft compelling brand stories that inspired consumers. Her relentless pursuit of innovation and her commitment to driving brand success earned her respect across industries.
Those who worked with Stevie remember her not just as a skilled strategist, but as a passionate mentor and leader who believed in empowering others. She built deep, meaningful relationships with her teams, tailoring her leadership to help each individual thrive in their unique strengths. Her ability to coach others toward success was one of her most cherished qualities, and many credit her with shaping their careers and boosting their confidence in the marketing world.
Stevie’s colleagues at AIM Productions describe her as the driving force behind the agency’s renewed creative direction. She had an extraordinary ability to look beyond traditional marketing methods, seeing opportunities for brands to tell authentic stories that connected emotionally with audiences. Her vision helped AIM Productions continue its long-standing reputation as a creative powerhouse at the intersection of entertainment, advertising, and culture.
In addition to her professional achievements, Stevie Benjamin will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and energy. Friends and colleagues say she had a natural ability to make everyone feel valued and heard. She was deeply passionate about advancing data and technology in marketing, but equally devoted to championing people — helping others rise, fostering collaboration, and inspiring creativity.
Her unexpected passing is an immense loss to the marketing, media, and entertainment communities. Stevie’s influence extended far beyond Chicago, touching countless professionals and brands nationwide. Her legacy of innovation, integrity, and inspiration will continue to shape the next generation of marketing leaders who follow in her footsteps.
As of now, the family of Stevie Benjamin and AIM Productions, Inc. have not released further details about her cause of death or memorial services. Tributes have begun to pour in from across the marketing and business world, with many remembering her as a brilliant strategist, a trusted advisor, and a kind soul whose creativity knew no bounds.
Rest in peace, Stevie Benjamin. Your impact on marketing, media, and those who had the privilege of knowing you will never be forgotten. You will be remembered as a leader who transformed brands, empowered people, and inspired an industry to dream bigger.
