Jillian aykens

Professional Profile

  • Strategic communications leader, adept in using data and experience (science and art) to develop and execute comprehensive, strategic communications and marketing plans that build and maintain brand integrity and achieve results

  • Relationship builder who understands the importance of listening; well-versed in the art of conflict resolution

  • Efficient, organized manager of priorities and publisher across diverse mediums, with illustrious history of maintaining professionalism, patience, humility, and sense of humor in high-pressure, deadline-heavy environments

  • Passionate creative expert with keen business acumen prepared to make an immediate impact while simultaneously helping others learn and thrive

Skills and Expertise

  • B2B, B2C and K-12 Education Strategic Communications

  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Integrated Marketing

  • Storytelling, Writing, Editing, and Proofreading

  • Creative Digital Imagery (Photography, Design)

  • Social Media Marketing: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

  • Email Marketing: Constant Contact, Mailchimp

  • Ghost Writing and Speech Writing

  • Adobe Creative Software Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, and Canva

  • Content Management Software

  • Google Analytics

  • Video Production: iMovie; Final Cut; Premiere Pro;

Work experience

Communications Coordinator/Director
CESA 6/Kaukauna Area School District (2014-2022)

  • Provided strategic leadership, direction and execution for a comprehensive communication and community engagement plan aligned with the District’s vision

  • Revitalized KASD brand through storytelling and relationship-building initiatives, increasing brand perception by nearly 30%, 4K enrollment by 236% and social media engagement by 212%

  • Led crisis communication team for COVID-19 closings and return to school process, operational protocol document and microsite creation, and family communications

  • Supported $32.9 million referendum process with implementation of strategic integrated marketing plan

  • Collaborated with neighboring school Districts to create a public school promotion and advocacy campaign

Freelance Creative Professional
Self-Employed/AykensInk (2006-2022)

  • Developed engaging marketing collateral, website content, and sustainable communications plans

  • Built lasting relationships with six long-term clients, and additionally served several single-project and limited-term customers

Marketing Communications Specialist
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. (2003-2009)

  • Managed B2B advertising program: coordinated media purchases; collaborated with marketing team to strategically place products and develop creative direction; served as creative editor for more than 350 ads annually

  • Assisted in tactical public relations execution: created and edited forty news releases/articles for eight national trade publications annually; built and maintained relationships with trade publication editors and publishers; planned and actualized corporate events

education

Bachelor of Science | Engligh
University of Wisconsin - Madison

Certificate | Business Management
University of Wisconsin Business Consortium
Eau Claire, Wisconsin

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