Head of Internal Communications, Global Formula 1 Programme (2007 - 2009)
Drove creation and implementation of communications strategies, plans, and materials for increased employee engagement, brand-building, and sales growth using assets of the company’s Formula 1 racing sponsorship. Support global business units with localised plans in 50 countries and manage 3-member communication specialist team.
· Launched global internal communications programme from standing start
· Created holistic strategic approach by spearheading cross-functional collaboration among Global Marketing, Public Relations, External Communications, and Corporate Responsibility
· Improved employee approval rating for sponsorship business strategy from 80% to 89% with increased focus on staff understanding and support
· Achieved key employee engagement targets (20% increase in both reception of information and participation in activities)
Director, External Communications, ING US Financial Services (2004 - 2007)
Managed media relations to support mutual fund and annuity business lines. Promoted corporate brand strategies, including title sponsorship of the ING New York City Marathon.
· Launched media relations campaign to reposition the ING brand in the US by leveraging advertising creative (now being rolled out internationally)
· Increased media coverage of ING’s variable annuity products four-fold in 18 months
· Developed the company’s first mutual fund proactive media relations campaign
· Minimised negative press coverage in a hostile regulatory environment and created strategic crisis communication messages for use with regulators, authorities, and reporters
· Secured coverage in major media outlets including the The New York times, International Herald Tribune, CNBC and The Today Show.
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THE HARTFORD FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP
Global insurance and investment Fortune 100 organisation
Simsbury, Connecticut, USA 2001 – 2004
Senior Communications Manager
Managed media relations for the Hartford Life/Investment Products Division. Defined key messaging for product, division, and business unit. Managed crisis communications to reduce potential negative publicity and maximise sales and marketing initiatives.
· Handled media relations in aftermath of September 11 attacks and subsequent market turmoil to mitigate investment outflows and maintain positive news coverage
· Launched media relations campaign to support introduction of new annuity product category, which became one of the most popular annuities in America
· Created cross-functional collaborative network of marketers, actuaries, lawyers, sales teams, researchers, executives and communicators to harmonise marketing approach
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WILLIAMS & HOUSE
Integrated marketing and communications agency
Avon, Connecticut, USA 1998-2001
Account Manager
Supported product launches, brand development, and sales strategies through strategic integrated communication campaigns including public relations, advertising, direct response, sales promotions, and marketing support.
· Maintained client International Paper’s fine papers brand position in a declining market
· Spearheaded first-of-its-kind programme leveraging media relations, marketing, sales, and direct mail to simultaneously target prospective customers and create sales leads
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SYNERGY MARKETING SOLUTIONS
Full service integrated marketing and communications agancy
Rocky Hill, Connecticut, USA 1997-1998
Account Manager
Managed media relations, advertising, direct marketing, and sales promotion. Responsible for envisioning strategy, setting objectives, organising campaign plans, motivating account team, evaluating results and ensuring account profitability for business-to-business technology, insurance and industrial clients.
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SULLIVAN & LESHANE PUBLIC RELATIONS
One of Connecticut's most influential public relations and lobbying firms
Hartford, Connecticut, USA 1993-1997
Account Executive
Developed strategic public relations and reputation management comapaings for issues-oriented corproate and not-for-profit accounts. Planned and managed programmes for clients such as Mirage Resorts, Education Alternatives, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and Connecticut Mutual/Mass Mutual (insurance companies) merger.
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HOUSATONIC AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT
Quasi-public transportation company
Danbury, Connecticut, USA 1991-1993
Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Created and implemented marketing and public relations programmes, including an award-winning public awareness campaign used as a model program throughout North America.
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AMES DEPARTMENT STORES, INC.
700-store retail chain (bankruptcy in April 1990 and now defunct) Rocky Hill, Connecticut, USA 1989-1991
Public Relations Coordinator
Effectively managed routine and crisis media relations, as well as investor relations, before and after the company declared bankruptcy. coordinated successful employee communications campaigns to stabilise employee morale and defection during corporate downsizing.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Dual Majors in Marketing and Organizational Management
Concentration: International Business
Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, Connecticut, USA