
"PR IS PERFORMANCE RECOGNITION."
Douglas Smith
BIO
I am a strategic communicator with more than 15 years of experience problem solving complex communications challenges. I use public relations as an integrator to drive awareness and elevate brands with audiences they care about the most. I've created award-winning campaigns for startup ventures and market-leading organizations.
I share my expertise in PR, business and style to inspire others via the PR Chic Blog. I also have a little fun writing about topics that matter to me, women bosses, pop culture, and the nefarious media blunder.
A true Maverick, I'm a Dallas native and a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington. In my spare time, I love traveling, ice cream and chocolate loves me. Wonder Woman is both a noun and a verb. My superpower is my smile, what's yours?
#PRChic

MY EXPERIENCE
Background & Expertise
COMMUNICATIONS & PR MANAGER, OLDCASTLE BUILDINGENVELOPE
October 2019 - Present
I currently oversee corporate communications, including employee communications for the leading building products company in North America. I support the business' go-to-market strategy through the execution of marketing communications, digital and social media campaigns for new product launches. I also work in concert with the senior leadership team to advance diversity and inclusion initiatives.
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS, THE STARR CONSPIRACY
January 2017 - October 2019
I led and managed the PR team. Counseled C-suite leaders, including CMOs on how PR strategy integrates into their overall marketing plan. I developed and executed general awareness campaigns, product launches and go-to-market strategies for national and international companies – both startup and established brands. I maintained relationships with analysts, as well as traditional and emerging media representatives to secure coverage, placement and briefings. I worked closely with trade publications on contributed article programs to help promote my client's thought leadership positions.
ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR, UTA
August 2013 - December 2016
I was responsible for developing the curriculum for and teaching continuing education courses to students and working professionals in the areas of marketing, media management and business communications.
EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT, CHRISTIAN MADISON
January 2013 - December 2016
I developed short- and long-range public relations plans. I maintained relationships with public and elected officials. I designed and implemented multi-channel communications strategies for organizations, including nonprofit and lifestyle brands. I leveraged my media relationships to garner press coverage in print, online and TV outlets. I managed corporate partnerships and secured sponsorship opportunities. I conducted media training for executives and planned community events.
COMMUNICATIONS LEAD ADVISOR, OCG PR
January 2009 - May 2013
I built the communications business and managed a team of PR professionals. I managed relationships with community and business leaders and elected officials. I planned public meetings and events, formulated crisis responses and plans. I served as a spokesperson for key client accounts. I also developed national and regional multiyear integrated marketing communications programs. I developed and participated in pitches for new business. I created messaging and positioning statements, as well as conducted market research on issues of interest.
EDUCATION
What I’ve Learned
December 2016
CERTIFICATE OF ACCREDITATION IN PR
The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential certifies my drive, professionalism, and principles, setting me apart from your peers and positioning me as a leader and mentor in the competitive public relations field. Building on the foundation of my educational degree, the APR keeps me current on today’s best practices and applications in the ever-evolving communications world.
December 2001
BA UT ARLINGTON
I worked my way through undergrad while maintaining a 3.5 GPA. I earned my way onto the Dean's List and graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. My degree has a concentration on the discipline of public relations.
MY SKILLS
What I Do

PUBLIC RELATIONS STRATEGY
Gain an understanding of business goals and define how earned media and other tactics can be applied to build relationships with specific audiences and communities.

INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS
Ensure the organization's communications is cohesive across PR, marketing, advertising and digital.
CORPORATE MESSAGING
Able to develop the messaging framework and architecture needed to help companies reach target audiences, both internal and external.

MEDIA AND INFLUENCER RELATIONS
Help organizations manage relationships with media representatives (general market and trade outlets) and influencers. Leverages these relationships to garner "newsworthy" coverage and mentions.

"The best way to predict the future is to create it."
Abraham Lincoln
LET’S CONNECT
malyzahj [at} yahoo dot com

