Hello, I’m karen

strategic

communicator

& leader

who i am

I am a values-driven leader with a passion for designing, launching, and executing initiatives that improve communities. I work at the intersection of tech, innovation, and storytelling.

Officially, I’m a communications expert with award-winning experience managing national and global campaigns that change behavior. I’m also a serial entrepreneur who has helped more than 800 women business owners around the world to accelerate their companies.

But really? I am inspired by what the future could be and possess the executive strengths to turn visions into realities.

top skills

g

Strategic Planning & Execution

Innovative ideas that ignite enthusiasm and the tenacity to execute flawlessly

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Visionary & Ethical Leadership

Commitment to a better future and ability to inspire others to join the effort

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Entrepreneurial Mindset

Identify and make the most of opportunities while overcoming challenges

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Team Building

Collaborative work style that empowers, develops, and celebrates others

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Design Thinking

Creative problem solving and program design with end users in mind

l

Learning & Development

Design and execute adult learning programs, including curriculum and engagement strategy

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Visual Communications

Beautiful and compelling marketing and press materials that move mindsets

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Content Creation

Persuasive copywriting, blog articles, newsletters, presentations, grant writing, and more

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Stakeholder Development

Identify and win over partners and supporters to create mutual victories

Work Samples

INDUSTRIES

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TECHNOLOGY

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STARTUP

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NONPROFIT

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GOVERNMENT

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HEALTHCARE

Experience

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Co-Founder & Managing Director

African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative

2017-2022

Created, funded, and led a tech-driven business accelerator serving 800+ women business owners from 53 African countries. Oversaw strategy, fundraising, programming, communications, marketing, recruitment, stakeholders, and alumni. Built AWEC into a trusted entrepreneurial support organization while leading a team of 13 staff members on three continents.

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Director, Strategic Partnerships

The Center for Global Enterprise

2014-2017

Led advancement for nonprofit research institute, raising $2-3 million annually. Co-developed and piloted a new blended learning model designed to bring leading-edge technologies and collaborative learning to individuals in emerging economies.

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Founder & Principal

Mix Communications

2010-2014

Founded boutique strategic communications consultancy serving startup and nonprofit clients to translate their passions into effective messages, strategies, and actions.

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Director, Marketing & Communications

Personal, Inc.

2011-2012

Managed integrated marketing campaign to brand and launch a consumer data privacy startup that raised over $30 million in venture capital. Led media relations, thought leadership, and major events, including company presence at SXSW.

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Vice President, Public Affairs

Porter Novelli

2007-2009

Designed and led multi-year, multimillion dollar public education campaigns for federal government agencies and healthcare clients, including messaging, media relations, multimedia marketing materials, events, and reputation management.

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Practice Director

Merritt Group

2006-2007

Led a team of five high-performing PR professionals and managed a multimillion dollar portfolio of technology and government clients, including media relations, branding, messaging, and thought leadership.

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Senior Associate

Burson-Marsteller

2003-2006

Designed and executed an award-winning campaign to restore the reputation of a critical aviation security technology. Core member of team managing a $32 million, award-winning global campaign to launch the redesigned U.S. paper currency, including management responsibility of extensive stakeholder outreach and partnership development.

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Account Manager

Corporate Executive Board

2002-2003

Managed a $3 million client portfolio consisting of Fortune 500 Chief Marketing Officers and their teams. Stewarded relationships and routinely exceeded quarterly financial and client satisfaction goals.