Open to opportunities

Karen Kolnb

@karenkolnb

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Award-winning communications professional specializing in media relations and writing.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a dynamic role that values creativity and strategic communication, fostering growth and collaboration.

I am a versatile writer and editor with a strong background in communications, marketing, and event management. With over two decades of experience, I have successfully managed programs and events at Yale University, where I developed marketing strategies and executed logistics for numerous educational seminars. My role as Program Administrator has honed my skills in strategic planning and community relations, allowing me to expand the reach of our initiatives effectively.

In addition to my work at Yale, I have served as the Marketing Communications Director at Burzenski & Company, where I implemented integrated marketing strategies and supervised a team to enhance our brand presence. My previous experience as Communications Manager at BL Companies, Inc. equipped me with the expertise to direct communications initiatives across multiple states, ensuring consistent messaging and branding. I am passionate about creating impactful content and fostering relationships that drive organizational success.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Marketing Communications Director

Burzenski & Company

Jan 2012 - Present (13 years 6 months)

Developed and implemented internal and external marketing efforts, including content creation and creative process management for new firm websites. Managed integrated marketing, SEO, and social media strategies.

Marketing Strategy Content Writing SEO Social Media Strategy Advertising Brand Development Staff Supervision

Program Administrator

Yale University

Jan 2011 - Present (14 years 6 months)

Managed program and event development, marketing, and communications for Biomedical Ethics and Humanities in Medicine programs. Executed logistics for over 60 educational seminars and symposia annually, expanding program scope and reach.

Event Management Marketing Communication Content Management Systems Social Media Management Logistics Coordination Program Development

Communications Specialist

Qualidigm

Jan 1999 - Present (26 years 6 months)

Directed public relations and media plans for national collaborations under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Managed annual reports, contract deliverables, and website redesign.

Public Relations Media Planning Project Management Branding Content Management Partnership Development

Public Information Officer

Rideworks

Jan 1994 - Present (31 years 6 months)

Implemented regional public information efforts for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, promoting statewide ridesharing and public transit. Led public information for Shoreline East commuter rail service.

Public Information Public Relations Sponsorship Management Fundraising Newsletter Production Transit Promotion Event Direction

Freelance Writer

Freelance

Wrote articles, marketing materials, and brochures for various clients across healthcare and publishing sectors. Served as a long-term freelance feature arts and entertainment writer for regional newspapers.

Content Writing Copywriting Feature Writing Marketing Communications Editing Proofreading Journalism Creative Direction

Communications Manager

BL Companies, Inc.

Jan 2006 - Present (19 years 6 months)

Directed internal and external communications initiatives and branding across seven offices in four states. Provided communications counsel and speechwriting for senior leadership, managing creative staff and multi-state events.

Communications Strategy Branding Public Relations Media Relations Event Management Business Development Intranet Management

Community Relations Manager

Maricopa County Department of Transportation

Jan 1997 - Present (28 years 6 months)

Secured feature coverage for the AZTech project on CBS Evening News and managed a team of professionals and interns. Directed a multi-million-dollar communications budget and developed innovative outreach strategies.

Public Relations Media Relations Team Management Budget Management Communications Strategy Event Management Newsletter Production

Communications Specialist

St. Mary’s Hospital

Jan 1992 - Present (33 years 6 months)

Wrote all communications materials and managed media inquiries for the hospital. Produced quarterly regional community magazines and monthly employee newsletters.

Communication Media Relations Content Writing Newsletter Production Public Relations Editing