Economic development and multichannel marketing and communications professional with a proven ability to close deals and deliver award-winning campaigns that inspire action from difficult to reach and discerning audiences. I've served both for-profit and not-for-profit entities and am a highly capable sparring partner for any marketing and business development professional whether B2B or B2C to:- Empower sales teams with tightly integrated lead funnels and lifecycle management solutions leveraging Salesforce.com. - Craft compelling narratives and award-winning content marketing campaigns. - Exceed benchmarks with targeted digital marketing strategies.Before my current role, I helped Georgia attract new business domestically and in 12 strategic markets around the globe. In the 7 years I ran Georgia’s global marketing efforts, we were selected as the #1 State for Business by Site Selection magazine, and its database of site consultants, for an unprecedented 7 years in a row. Jobs and investment grew steadily YOY due to a healthy pipeline of prospects. In addition, the Department’s commitment to marketing over that same period of time grew more than 300% because the ROI was clear and measurable. I successfully managed a team of account managers and agency relationships for interactive, pr, traditional and video production.My online marketing career started with the direction of email marketing and web campaigns for Mandalay Resort Group, resulting in several awards for creative execution and exceptional return on investment. This caught the attention of the interactive marketing company, Twelve Horses where I directed their corporate marketing, advertising, and public relations efforts, as well as provided strategic consulting for travel/tourism clients such as Park City, Heavenly Mountain Resort, and America’s Adventure Place.Leveraging my experience with media and multi-channel marketing technology, I went on to lead the marketing and branding initiatives for SAXOTECH (now NEWSCYCLE), a global provider of content management platforms, circulation systems and advertising solutions for the media industry.I’ve worked in business development, marketing, advertising and public relations for a variety of other companies, including Switchback PR & Marketing, Stoel Rives LLP, Preferred Capital Corporation and Patagonia. I have an MBA with a specialization in Marketing and a BA from Clemson University.Side hustle: My photography has appeared in countless ads, brochures, and marketing campaigns. For more information visit www.robertpayne.net.