Goal-oriented and tactful public administration professional who is well-rounded and proficient at building effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to influence, inspire, and perform in high-pressure environments. Experienced in directing transformative community engagement initiatives, in addition to effectively leading communication strategies for small to large-scale organizations.
Fostering Innovation.
Led efforts to drive data-informed decision-making after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, resulting in the rapid launch of neighborhood resource hubs and targeted outreach that connected impacted residents with critical relief funding and resources.
Spearheaded the "Bridges to Business" initiative, revolutionizing Tampa's approach to engaging small businesses on contract opportunities and accessibility to government procurement decision-makers, fostering relationships with over 1,400 small and diverse-owned firms.
Supported City services during the pandemic by developing virtual engagement opportunities for small businesses, vulnerable populations, and students, in addition to co-leading numerous neighborhood and faith-based vaccination clinics.
Optimizing Influence.
Implemented and served as the primary liaison for the 30-member Mayor's Community Task Force on Policing while collaborating with local professional sports teams to launch nationally recognized campaigns and initiatives, including serving on the Super Bowl LV Social Justice sub-committee.
Credited as a policy contributor to the Community-Centered Engagement Plan for Law Enforcement published by Nextdoor.
Developed and delivered statewide training on media relations and social media best practices to more than 1,200 law enforcement professionals.
Managing Change.
Directed all aspects of establishing the City's Community Engagement and Partnerships Department.
Oversaw an 11-member department through a reorganization amidst numerous controversial issues and multiple high-profile events, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Boat Parade, Wrestlemania, and Stanley Cup Semifinals.
Designed an online system to streamline, track, and measure public requests for department outreach programs and services.
Directs the operation of the City's Community Engagement & Partnerships Department, which is responsible for managing external relationships with neighborhood-based organizations and serving as a liaison between community members and City Hall. Develops strategic partnerships with non-profit and private sector stakeholders to carryout the objectives of the organization. Serves as a member of the Mayor's Executive team.
Provide law enforcement officers and other interested parties instruction on media relations and social media through a longstanding contractual relationship with the State of Florida Office of the Attorney General.
Responsible for the development, coordination, and evaluation of new and existing initiatives that support the Mayor's vision for uplifting neighborhoods and improving the delivery of City services to constituents. Directs City staff's involvement in outreach activities within the business and residential communities, as well as internal initiatives. Serves as the Mayor's adviser on community issues, and coordinates between neighborhoods and affected City departments to achieve timely and effective resolutions. Manages the day-to-day operation of the Community Partnerships Division, which includes oversight of the Tampa Police Department's Neighborhood Affairs Liaison program.
Collaborated with upper-level management, to include the City of Tampa Mayor's Office, and external organizations to coordinate media responses on sensitive issues and joint initiatives. Leveraged community relationships to successfully increase public support and mitigate adverse situations. Supervised employees responsible for daily community outreach activities. Crafted communications materials, to include talking points, press releases, media advisories and social media content for breaking news and planned events. Fostered and maintained relationships with corporate partners to generate monetary and in-kind donations, in addition to managing the budget for the Media Relations Office.