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Marisa DiSarno

@marisadisarno

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Strategic internal communications leader with 10+ years of experience.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that values strategic communication and fosters employee engagement.

I am a seasoned internal communications leader with over a decade of experience in guiding change and enhancing employee engagement within complex organizations. My expertise lies in building robust communications programs that not only strengthen company culture but also drive significant business outcomes. As a trusted advisor to executives, I have successfully influenced decision-making processes and aligned leadership messaging to foster a cohesive work environment.

Throughout my career, I have led internal communications departments from the ground up, notably at Kirkland & Ellis and CA Student Living. My strategic initiatives have resulted in remarkable improvements in employee engagement and sentiment, including a 5.3x increase in engagement at Kirkland & Ellis. I have directed communication during critical transitions and crises, ensuring business continuity and preserving trust among stakeholders.

My collaborative approach has allowed me to work effectively across various departments, streamlining workflows and enhancing internal communication. I am passionate about creating impactful internal campaigns that resonate with employees and drive engagement, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the organization.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Senior Manager, Internal Communications

Current

Kirkland & Ellis

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 6 months)

Led global internal communications for a $9B business, supporting 250+ business professionals and 4,000 attorneys. Increased engagement by 5.3x and impressions by 7.2% with a revamped social strategy.

Global Communications Social Media Strategy Employee Engagement Content Development

Senior Manager, Internal Communications

Smithbucklin

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 6 months)

Developed multi-channel strategies to connect distributed teams, guide leaders through evolving workplace policies, and support post-pandemic transitions. Created executive communications and digital content that supported clarity and alignment.

Executive Communication Stakeholder Engagement

Senior Manager, Internal Communications

CA Student Living

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 6 months)

Directed internal communications through an ownership transition, real estate development crises, and a corporate HQ relocation. Advised president and C-suite on messaging strategy for investors, board members, and employees.

Crisis Communications Internal Communications

Senior Communications & Change Management Consultant

JLL

Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 6 months)

Advised Fortune 500 clients on internal and change communication strategies supporting digital transformation, space redesign, and organizational restructuring. Delivered $2M in annual savings by driving employee adoption of new workplace and digital tools.

Change Management Digital Transformation

Communications Manager

Digital Authority Partners

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 6 months)

Built foundational internal and external communications systems supporting rapid scale, employee onboarding, and brand development. Created company-wide messaging strategy and employee communications standards.

Internal Communications Brand Development Messaging Strategy

Graduate Program Administrator

Boston University

Jan 2015 - Present (10 years 6 months)

Managed administrative tasks and supported the operations of a graduate program. Assisted students and faculty with program-related inquiries and logistics.

Administration Administrative Support Event Coordination Data Management

Program Coordinator

Harvard Medical School

Jan 2013 - Present (12 years 6 months)

Coordinated various program activities and provided support to faculty and staff. Assisted with scheduling, communications, and record-keeping for departmental initiatives.

Scheduling Record keeping

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Boston University

Master of Science, Public Relations

Completed a Master of Science degree with a focus on Public Relations. Gained advanced knowledge in strategic communication, media relations, and public affairs.

Drexel University

Bachelor of Science, Design and Merchandising

Obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Design and Merchandising. Developed skills in design principles, merchandising strategies, and market analysis.