Maria Eugenia Santiago Echandi Email & Phone Number

Rolle, Canton Of Vaud, Ch

Developed long-term global communications plans for B2B technology leader in automotive and industrial sectors, following NASDAQ listing and extended ‘quiet period.’ Switzerland HQ role performed from MI, USA. Crafted messaging and reactivated media operations in advance of key company milestones, e.g. VC divestments, capital restructuring and technology pivot -- from combustion technologies and connected vehicle systems (SaaS) to sustainable electrification solutions (EVs, fuel cell, industrial solutions). Led Artificial Intelligence (AI) Working Group exploring the use of AI tools in communications.

Independent counsel to C-suites and entrepreneurs managing high-stake issues, seeking growth and/or facing growing pains. Specialized in strategy development, crisis management and media relations. Sample client industries: transportation, energy, digital marketing.

Yokohama-Shi, Kanagawa, Jp

North America HQ executive on International Assignment. Led all external and internal communications including corporate, brand, product, internal, executive and sustainability communications for Nissan and Infiniti brands (automotive and finance arms). Reported to Chairman. Member of Global Communications Council. Maneuvered spin-off of Latin America region from ‘The Americas’ organizational structure. Oversaw 38 markets; managed 24-person team plus agencies. Lead spokesperson. Managed massive PR and media relations efforts in support of the Rio Olympics and UEFA sponsorships programs, as well as the launch of new subsidiaries, multi-billion manufacturing plants, new vehicle introductions and exits.

Yokohama-Shi, Kanagawa, Jp

Cork, Ireland, Ie

Responsible for transformation communication initiatives entailing broad global scale for $27.9B diversified technology leader. Designed communications strategy for a $150M change management program, in partnership with C-suite and regional leaders. Orchestrated global, country-by-country communication milestones across subsidiaries and functions announcing business expansions, closures and integrations, while managing legal and business continuity risks.

Racine, Wi, Us

Managed external and internal communications for 25+ country business unit of $11.2B consumer goods manufacturer. Covered 25+ country region spanning Europe, Japan and Australia/New Zealand business unit of $11.2B consumer goods manufacturer (CPG). Contracted agencies and launched the first-ever product PR campaigns in Europe, e.g. Glade, Mr.Muscle. Led change management communications for HQ relocation project, from the UK to Switzerland.

Detroit, Michigan, Us

(1) Product Communications Manager: Responsible for Chevrolet vehicle communications throughout their lifecycle: from pre-launch concept and technology rollouts to launch events and on-going media relations. (2) Corporate Communications Manager: Responsible for cross-brand projects and events targeting industry-wide key audiences such as influencers, opinion leaders and media, e.g. launch of OnStart telematics technologies and launch of GM Heritage Center.

Detroit, Michigan, Us

Led 1st pan-regional team for new 24k-employee business unit spanning 3 continents and 15 manufacturing, corporate and engineering sites. Oversaw all external and internal communications. Reported to Chairman. Liaison between Miami Regional HQ, Dubai sub-regional HQ and Detroit, MI Global HQ. Lead spokesperson.

Executive Education, Sloan School Of Management, Innovation And Transformation Program

Senior Exec Leadership Program (Ad2), Advanced Business Management And Transformation

Bachelors, Japanese, Business, Asian Studies