Experience

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  City of Summit, NJ

  • Summit, NJ

  • Chief Communications Officer

    • Sep 2013 - Present
    • Summit, NJ

    As the first Chief Communications Officer (CCO) and Chief of Staff for the City of Summit, New Jersey, I spearheaded the establishment of the city's Communications Office, setting a strategic direction and laying the foundation for a sophisticated communications infrastructure. In this executive role, I demonstrate visionary leadership and strategic oversight in facilitating and enhancing dynamic two-way, general, and emergency communications channels between the city administration and its constituents. My responsibilities encompass the creation and management of content that is not only disseminated through traditional media outlets but also strategically deployed across the city's official website, various social media platforms, and through other innovative informational and promotional channels. My role is pivotal in ensuring that the city's communications strategies are both effective and aligned with the broader objectives of the City of Summit, thereby enhancing civic engagement, transparency, and public trust.

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  Amy Cairns LLC

  • Summit, NJ and Greater NY Metro Area

  • Independent Communications & Marketing Consultant

    • Jul 2004 - Sep 2013
    • Summit, NJ and Greater NY Metro Area

    Leveraged deep insights into client business requirements, this role involved conducting thorough evaluations to identify and implement the most impactful research methodologies that underpin and enhance strategic marketing, communications, and public relations initiatives. With a profound understanding of interactive media, user experience strategies, and solutions, this consulting role demanded a high level of expertise in crafting and guiding the execution of strategic plans that drive engagement and achieve measurable outcomes for clients.Generated innovative and compelling marketing and press materials, along with the strategic oversight of public relations and marketing campaigns. It involved the creation and curation of content for social media, ensuring a cohesive and powerful brand narrative across all digital platforms. Additionally, in this role I advised on the effective distribution of marketing press materials to optimize reach and visibility across diverse channels with the goal of maximizing impact and driving forward the organizational objectives.

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  Frank N. Magid Associates

  • Greater New York City Area

  • Director of Interactive Media

    • Jul 1999 - Jul 2004
    • Greater New York City Area

    Established, scaled, and led the Interactive Media Strategy group, embodying visionary leadership in guiding clients to seamlessly align their offerings with consumer needs while crafting viable online business strategies. This role encompassed the development of innovative strategies aimed at amplifying customer engagement and driving revenue growth, ensuring initiatives were directly aligned with overarching business goals.As a key advisor and member of the leadership team, I delivered insightful feedback and strategic recommendations to shape the direction and decision-making processes for a global base. The role was pivotal in formulating and implementing comprehensive strategic plans, demonstrating a commitment to achieving long-term business objectives.Beyond strategic oversight, this executive capacity is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence among team members through active mentorship. This includes enhancing their ability to meet critical deadlines, refining their skills, and nurturing valuable media relationships, thereby strengthening the organization's market position and brand reputation.Actively mentors staff and guides ability to meet deadlines, enhance skills and cultivate media relationships.

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  Amy Cairns LLC

  • Greater New York City Area

  • User Experience Consultant

    • May 1995 - Aug 1999
    • Greater New York City Area

    Partnered with key stakeholders across business units to clearly understand business needs, customer insights, competitive landscape and define online solutions and user experience design to achieve business objectives. Worked with and supported management in the annual planning and goal-setting processes to continue the evolution and innovation of online capabilities. Recommended analysis and reporting requirements to include new site features and functionalities and identify areas for process improvements.

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  KRC Research

  • New York, NY

  • Vice President

    • Sep 1992 - May 1995
    • New York, NY

    Utilized quantitative and qualitative market research solutions to help inform strategic decisions, and optimize business, marketing and communications strategies. My work fueled thought leadership, and was implemented to effectively drive strategic communications efforts for a global client base.

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  NBC Sports

  • Greater New York City Area; Barcelona Spain

  • Olympics Research

    • Sep 1991 - Sep 1992
    • Greater New York City Area; Barcelona Spain

    Conducted interviews to develop a comprehensive database of athlete information to inform "Local Hero" program as part of NBC 1992 Olympics Broadcast from Barcelona, Spain.

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  Children's Crisis Treatment Center

  • Greater Philadelphia Area

  • Director of Community Relations

    • Jun 1988 - Aug 1991
    • Greater Philadelphia Area

    Managed all community development initiatives throughout the non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Planned, developed and implemented programs to promote community awareness and action. Established media protocols and build relationship with local and national media outlets. Coordinates fundraising initiatives.