Strategic Communications & Public Affairs Professional
Send a job offer directly to this candidate
Strategic Communications and Public Affairs professional with experience supporting executive leadership, developing internal and external communications, managing media relations, producing digital content, and executing public engagement strategies for municipal government organizations. Skilled in writing press releases, newsletters, speeches, social media content, and executive communications while collaborating with leadership, community stakeholders, and media representatives. Experienced in crisis communications, event coordination, employee engagement, and multi-channel communications.
Internal Communications Specialist - City of Newport News - Newport News, VA
(2026-01)
Lead the development and implementation of the City of Newport News' internal communications strategy, building a comprehensive communications program to support more than 2,000 employees by expanding internal communication channels beyond existing newsletters and Microsoft Teams announcements. Develop executive messaging, employee newsletters, intranet content, organizational announcements, and strategic communication plans that promote employee engagement, organizational culture, and citywide initiatives. Partner with executive leadership and departmental stakeholders to ensure timely, consistent, and transparent communications, while evaluating communication effectiveness and identifying opportunities to strengthen employee awareness and engagement.
Public Relations & Engagement Specialist - City of Virginia Beach - Virginia Beach, VA
(2025-05 - 2026-06)
Served as the primary communications liaison for Parks and Recreation, developing strategic communication campaigns that promoted programs, services, and community events. Captured photographs during community events for use in digital communications, newsletters, websites, and social media. Managed departmental social media, increasing audience engagement by 68% within six months, and produced the department's highest-performing organic video, generating more than 208,000 views without paid advertising or influencer support.
Wrote media advisories, website content, and social media communications, while proofreading and editing public-facing materials, including brochures, signage, and promotional publications, to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with organizational messaging. Authored five feature stories published in Virginia Beach community magazines, including Coastal Virginia Magazine, Red Mill, and Back Bay Living, highlighting Parks and Recreation initiatives. Maintained relationships with local media and community partners and represented the department as a member of the Hampton Roads Media Council.
Executive Assistant II – Communications Division - City of Virginia Beach - Virginia Beach, VA
(2023-07 - 2025-05)
Supported the Communications Director and leadership team by coordinating strategic communication initiatives, managing schedules, and assisting with media relations efforts. Drafted communications materials, maintained media contacts, coordinated event promotion activities, and supported crisis communication responses. Served as a key point of contact for resident inquiries and helped ensure accurate and timely dissemination of public information.
Site Coordinator - Communities in Schools of Hampton Roads - Suffolk, VA
(2021-08 - 2023-06)
Managed school-based programs and community engagement initiatives designed to support student success and family involvement. Coordinated outreach efforts, developed communication materials, managed social media content, and partnered with community organizations to provide resources and support services. Created and implemented the Ladies in Training (L.I.T.) mentoring program to promote leadership development and personal growth among young women.
Administrative Assistant - Elizabeth City State University - Elizabeth City, NC
(2019-08 - 2021-06)
Provided administrative and project support to executive leadership within the Chancellor's Office. Coordinated meetings, managed schedules, organized special events, and assisted with university communications initiatives. Supported student engagement efforts through social media management and represented the university at recruitment events, campus tours, and community outreach activities.
Master of Arts - Strategic Communication - Regent University
Bachelor of Arts - Communications - Elizabeth City State University
