Senior Public Relations Manager
CurrentDevelop and execute communication strategies for company-data-based and breaking news stories, including monthly sales results, automaker news, product launches and the latest from the Research team; co-manage Cox Automotive Media Group’s stable of spokespeople from a media relations perspective, securing interviews, facilitating commentary, executive coaching/media training when needed, and more.Co-lead the company’s highly successful award and accolade program, working with automakers, agencies and dealers to tout recent award wins in their advertising and marketing campaigns; in 2015, the total number of usage approvals reached nearly 1,500, a 29 percent year-over-year increase.Implement annual automaker tour, presenting to marketing, public relations and agency executives to further develop client relationships and foster awareness about Kelley Blue Book content. Lead large-scale major industry award events (i.e. Best Buy Awards) from design concept to implementation, hosting more than 200 automaker executives and media guests; manage event planning agency relationship and multiple related teams for each event. Formulate stories to attract new audiences, increasing brand engagement and driving site traffic; serve as point person on influencer drive events and sponsored programs (i.e. Hispanicize and BlogHer).Act as a primary liaison between the team and its agency partners. Collaborate and provide guidance on proposed strategies and planning prior to implementation.Foster teamwork between Cox Automotive Media Group Public Relations, Social and Marketing teams, regularly meeting with the Autotrader team to brainstorm new ideas and work on joint projects that can promote both brands among new audiences and media.Oversee budget of more than $1.7 million, handling invoices, monthly forecasting and proposing budget for the new year.Manage direct reports, including public relations coordinator and public relations and marketing intern.
