• Created strategic communications plan to address consumer and business needs in highly regulated markets.• Ideated, planned and launched weekly internal communications newsletter.• Cross-departmental collaboration to create issue media monitoring for new markets and government affairs.• Created and distributed media materials for company campaigns and announcements.• Agency management for remote campaigns in highly regulated markets.• Create and distribute communications on behalf of executives.• On-site media management for campaigns and launches.• Provided counsel to senior level management for speaking and media opportunities.

Multiple positions w/increased duties: PR Manager, Apr 2017 – Sept 2018; Sr. Specialist, Oct 2015 – Mar 2017, Specialist, Oct 2013 – Oct 2015• Developed strategic communications plans for campaigns, launches, events, tours and issues management that promoted, supported and protected the company’s brand, reputation, and business objectives. • Cultivated strong relationships with trade and consumer media that led to coverage in top-tier publications while maintaining relationships with key contacts through thoughtful, strategic engagement helping ensure favorable positioning within stories. • Developed and implemented successful media relations plans to secure positive media stories.• Managed relationships with local, regional and national contacts at highly-respected publications such as Chicago Tribune, Denver Post, Detroit Free Press, Toronto Star and ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC regional affiliates in over 20 media markets across 16 states and Canada.• Provided media strategy and outreach for 27 store openings in 12 media markets, including a high-profile location in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.• Collaborated across functions to execute strategic issues management plan, coordinated internal and external response, and counseled stakeholders during crises including food safety, protests, operational issues, legal issues and customer experiences.• Served as company spokesperson and coached internal and third-party spokespersons on message delivery.

• Developed and distributed consumer-focused media materials to regional and national outlets, prepared messaging points and arranged interviews with executive leadership. • Produced reports and communications to members, leadership and staff, and established the AAP’s social media strategy.• Secured national placements in USA Today, Men’s Fitness, New York Times, AOL Health, Examiner.com, Time, and regional broadcast affiliates.

• Developed a reputation with regional media outlets as a reliable and quality source for seasonal news to help drive traffic and enhance the Arboretum’s reputation through expert staff interviews. • Led collaboration with business, government and company volunteers for Arbor Day awareness campaign.• Wrote press materials, internal newsletter, and social media and web content. • Created and maintained a database to track placements. • Shot and edited photo and video for media placements including weekly Chicago Tribune column.