Evgenia Besiou

Public Relations professional with 10+ years of experience in event management, communications and account management. Proven track record of leading 300+ events per year, including the national book tour of one of Greece's most renowned writers. Recognised for building strong relationships with clients and teams and for delivering high-profile experiences within the publishing and tourism sectors.

Public Relations and Communications Manager at Key Books (2023-06 – 2025-03)

• Led 300+ book presentations in one year, including a nationwide tour for a bestselling author, establishing an entirely new events program
• Built media and influencer relationships, securing coverage for new releases and initiatives with no prior collaborations.
• Developed media strategies (press releases, media kits, interviews) for Greek and international authors, maximising brand visibility.
• Coordinated events across Greece with bookstores, cultural venues and local communities, managing internal teams to ensure cohesive branding and messaging.
• Oversaw daily PR operations, press monitoring, project management for launches and partnerships with influencers, bloggers, and cultural organisations to enhance book visibility.
• Represented the publishing house at book fairs and literary festivals, increasing company presence and networking opportunities.

Content & Account Manager at Bright Blue Villas (2018-10 – 2022-06)

• Managed and expanded the villa portfolio on WordPress from ~50 to 200+ properties, significantly boosting bookings and revenue.
• Organised a major press event in London (2019) to showcase the villa portfolio to British media, increasing international coverage
• Managed and optimised online and offline content, including website, promotional materials, advertising campaigns and visual assets, improving brand visibility and engagement.
• Served as the main liaison for villa owners and guests, coordinating content, reservations, and 360° travel experiences.
• Oversaw website updates, SEO-aligned copywriting and CMS management, ensuring content met marketing objectives while collaborating with external agencies to deliver advertising campaigns and maintain the reservation system
• Managed peak-season operations, ensuring smooth workflow and exceptional guest experiences, including VIP services such as helicopter transfers, private chefs, and concierge requests

Public Relations Coordinator at Metaichmio Publications (2016-09 – 2017-07)

• Developed and executed PR strategies for authors and new releases through events and promotional initiatives across Greece.
• Planned and delivered book launches, author tours, press conferences and media interviews, ensuring strong audience and media engagement.
• Led "Nesbomania," a nationwide, simultaneous book launch event for Jo Nesbo in collaboration with bookstores across Greece, generating high buzz and sales momentum
• Built and maintained relationships with bookstores and media, supporting repeat collaborations.
• Managed end-to-end event logistics and communications, including press releases, invitations, media outreach, and on-site execution.

Public Relations Executive at Kastaniotis Editions (2015-03 – 2016-07)

• Delivered promotional materials and PR communications across website and social media channels, supporting integrated communication strategies.
• Managed website content via CMS and oversaw social media publishing, monitoring and audience engagement.
• Collaborated with authors on content planning and promotion across their social media channels.
• Conducted press monitoring and produced press releases and email newsletters to strengthen brand visibility.
• Planned and executed book presentations, managing invitations, guest communications, on-site logistics and media coverage through journalists and media coverage

Account Executive (Internship) at Strategy and Communications Advisors (2014-08 – 2014-11)

• Monitored press coverage, prepared reports, drafted and distributed press releases, and coordinated social media to support client visibility and maintain consistent brand messaging.

Venue Manager at Cosmote StartUp (a 5-month educational program) at Ogilvy (in collaboration with Cosmote) (2013-12 – 2014-04)

• Coordinated and supported 10 startups, ensuring milestones were met, organised networking and knowledge-sharing events with mentors and industry partners, and managed administrative tasks while liaising with the PR agency to enhance program communications and media engagement

Public Relations Intern at European Parliament (2012-05 – 2012-07)

• Assisted with PR events and media outreach, compiling targeted media lists to maximise coverage, and gained hands-on experience in high-level EU communications by participating in Strasbourg's plenary session.

MA in Political and Media Communication – City, University of London (2009-09 – 2010-06)

BA in Political Science and Public Administration – National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2003-09 – 2008-06)