Work Experience

(More like a career story)

2022 - 2024

Senior IT Change Communications Manager

Optum

Remote

Here's where I led change management communications for large- and small-scale technology transitions (e.g., tech tools and systems, third party staff outsourcing, operations model transition). Additional internal communications were also a focus, as I strategized, planned, implemented and maintained a cohesive communications package, which included SharePoint assets and administration, leadership and tech messaging, newsletters, video production (script, animation, design), and much more. This was performed through collaboration, solicited feedback, and well-balanced comms distribution looped into to the mix to ensure alignment with our corporate brand and a goal to always "lower shoulders" when change happened in this high tech environment.

2019 - 2022

Senior Communications Manager

Parexel

UniFirst Corporation

Takeda

Comcast

This was a very exciting time as I applied my skills to a variety of industries that broadened my change perspective as a content creator and messenger. Involved in very complex technology transitions in very complex business and organizational structures, I created technology change communications using Prosci ADKAR as a key tool. Biopharma regulatory consulting and manufacturing, fleet services, and broadcasting/ telecommunications services were the industries I served during this educational and skill building career experience as a contractor. Time spent in these industries reaffirmed that technology is a critical, connecting spinal component of all organizations.

Remote

2018 - 2019

Senior IT Communications Specialist

General Dynamics Information Technology

This was my first experience working in a Federal and government IT services environment, where I applied my storytelling and graphic design skills to help introduce technology changes and programs. It's where my creativity was challenged as we strived to gain acceptance and trust in technology related programs, some of which were met with great resistance. Using transparency and keeping a close watch on overall company events (e.g., acquisitions, company downsizing, role transitions, etc.), I was able to guide project managers on the what, how and when of communicating effectively. My top achievement in this role was my ability to create an overall considerate and calm change "voice" that genuinely supported our program goals and stakeholders' intentions of maintaining resources.

Remote

2017 - 2017

Senior Communications Specialist

Brammer Bio (now part of Thermo Fisher)

Though short-lived, my time at Brammer was the most interesting work experience as I collaborated and, most importantly, listened to colleagues from all areas of gene therapy manufacturing. It was my first time in the bio pharma industry, but, through listening, I was able to quickly craft internal and external stories, from press releases, to career fair materials, to science forums, website development and new hire communications. I did all of this while playing photographer, designer, and brand store developer. It was great time spent connecting all of Brammer's business areas through genuine, human communications, which was evidence of this very kind and brilliant team.

Cambridge, MA/Remote

2016 - 2017

Senior Communications Officer

Lifespan (now Brown University Health)

For this large health care network, I led internal and external communications for its newly acquired behavioral health agency. It was here I was exposed to an industry shortage of resources and its resulting consequences on patient care. This meant that every word had to be carefully crafted to help strike a balance between brand reputation, care services capacity, and overall employee morale. My website development, overhaul of marketing assets for multiple programs, facility space design, and a commitment to keeping all colleagues informed of critical industry changes (e.g., needle disposal, naloxone ("Narcan") access, crisis communications and emergency care procedures) all played a role in striking that balance while also helping us pass The Joint Commission audits.

Providence, RI

2015 - 2016

Content Developer

MetLife, Inc.

Though meant to be a "let's make ends meet" job, it was a very satisfying one as I was part a team that overhauled customer communications. This was an instant gratification role, knowing we were helping lower customers' stress levels by providing them clear and helpful insurance information they need. My graphic design skills also proved useful as I developed specification templates for a variety of automated systems used by individual MetLife teams to distribute their divisions' customer communications.

Warwick, RI

2001 - 2015

Senior Communications Specialist

Cabot Corporation

Fourteen years at this manufacturing company provided me with great opportunities to apply my skills, discover new ones, and made me a more knowledgeable and appreciative consumer of every day products we use. I crafted content and design for internal and external communications including global recognition programs, vision and values revamps, annual shareholder reports and meetings, sustainability reports, company newsletters and intranet, marketing ads, leadership messaging and much more. It was here I learned the basics of storytelling: Learn before crafting, craft before editing, edit before designing, and always have a review session (preferably with individuals who have no knowledge of the topic, those who are experts on it, and a few key stakeholders), then publish!

Boston, MA

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

University of Masschusetts

Dartmouth, MA

Academic emphasis on writing strategic communication, media studies, and visual design. Developed strong analytical and critical thinking skills, coupled with hands-on experience in multimedia content creation and communication research.