Open to opportunities

Sumaya Gasimova Aretz

@sumayagasimovaaretz

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Dynamic communications specialist with expertise in climate advocacy.

Azerbaijan

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that values innovation and collaboration, where I can drive impactful communication strategies and contribute to meaningful projects.

I am a dynamic and impact-driven communications specialist with over a decade of experience leading global communication strategies across government, climate diplomacy, and corporate sectors. My proven track record in remote collaboration, digital storytelling, and stakeholder engagement has allowed me to thrive in diverse cultures and time zones. I specialize in climate advocacy, public relations, and strategic media campaigns, adept at managing global teams and crafting narratives that drive visibility, influence, and results.

Currently, I serve as a Communications Advisor to the UN High-Level Climate Champion for COP29, where I manage global media relations and oversee digital teams to deliver coordinated campaign outputs. My previous roles include Internal Communications Specialist at bp Azerbaijan, where I spearheaded strategies supporting the company's net-zero vision, and Brand Loyalty & Communication Lead at Pasha Holding, where I developed innovative loyalty programs that enhanced customer engagement. I am passionate about leveraging my skills to create impactful communication strategies that resonate across various sectors.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Communications Advisor

Current

UN High-Level Climate Champion for COP29

Mar 2024 - Present (1 year 5 months)

Managed global media relations, leading the strategic visibility of HLC positions across international platforms. Oversaw digital teams, designers, and writers to deliver coordinated campaign outputs.

Media Relations Press Release Writing Climate Diplomacy

Internal Communications Specialist

BP Azerbaijan

Oct 2021 - Present (3 years 10 months)

Spearheaded internal communication strategies supporting bp’s net-zero vision. Conducted cost-efficiency audits on digital media spending, reducing communication expenses by 20%.

Internal Communications Net Zero Vision Employee Engagement

Brand Loyalty & Communication Lead

Pasha Holding

Jul 2020 - Present (5 years 1 month)

Developed innovative loyalty programs enhancing customer engagement and retention. Led B2B communication strategies and analyzed campaign performance using digital tools.

Loyalty Programs Customer Engagement Customer Retention B2B Marketing Strategy

Strategic Communications Coordinator

Baku Energy Week

Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 7 months)

Managed the full communications cycle of the region’s largest energy conference. Increased delegate satisfaction and media visibility by 30% through revamped PR strategy.

Energy Conference Communications Delegate Satisfaction Media Visibility PR Strategy Stakeholder Engagement

E-commerce & Social Media Specialist

Global Architectural Development (GAD)

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 7 months)

Launched and managed social media campaigns for GAD’s international design portfolio. Improved brand visibility and engagement across digital platforms.

Campaigns Engagement Content Creation Digital Marketing

Marketing Manager

Silk Way Travel

Aug 2012 - Present (13 years)

Designed and executed integrated marketing campaigns promoting travel packages. Negotiated with media partners to enhance exposure with minimal budget.

Integrated Marketing Budget Management Marketing Strategy Advertising

PR & Communications Manager

Baku Nobel Heritage Fund

Apr 2008 - Present (17 years 4 months)

Led media relations and served as spokesperson in the absence of the marketing director. Secured national and international media coverage through compelling storytelling and event strategy.

Media Relations Spokesperson National Media Coverage International Media Coverage Storytelling Event Strategy Public Relations

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Duke University

Certificate, Project Management

2023 - 2033

Obtained a Project Management Certificate from Duke University, enhancing skills in project planning, execution, and oversight. This certification is valid for a decade, demonstrating a commitment to professional development.

Azerbaijan University of Languages

Bachelor of International Law & Relations, International Law & Relations

2006 - 2010

Grade: Honors

Completed a comprehensive program in International Law & Relations, earning honors upon graduation. Gained a strong foundation in global legal frameworks and international relations dynamics.