Debra Schell
Consultant
Carlisle,PA
Summary
Dynamic Communications Consultant with a proven track record of delivering strategic insights and innovative solutions tailored to client needs. Experienced in leading diverse projects that enhance operational efficiency and drive sustainable business growth. Expertise in problem-solving and cultivating strong client relationships enables effective navigation of complex challenges. Committed to leveraging communication strategies that align with organizational goals and foster long-term success.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Consultant
Find Calm Here LLC
01.2020 - Current
- Created event communications, participant emails, and follow-up systems to increase email conversion rates from 15 to 46 percent open rates.
- Guided the launch and re-engagement of online communities to improve member signups, retention, and participation by 75 percent.
Community Consultant & Business Development Coach
ALX Ventures Accelerator
08.2024 - 10.2024
- Expedited startup leadership development of online platforms to launch within 3 months or less.
- Shifted client from stuck to ready to launch in two months.
Group Facilitator and Coach
The Network Incubator
04.2022 - 10.2024
- Drove engagement within cohorts to boost attendance and encourage inquiry which led to an increase in participation.
- Active listening to new and established business owners to learn their challenges, then advised them on growth strategies that helped them launch in less than 90 days.
Co-Founder & Board Member
Community Consultants Collective (CCC)
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Founded and designed a global community which grew from six to over 150 members within two years.
- Hosted monthly meetings with over 20 members and facilitated conversations which led to client referrals.
Communications Coordinator and Community Consultant
Clocktower Advisors
06.2022 - 06.2023
- Met weekly with partners to strengthen internal community practices for a community of 200+ members to boost engagement by 30 percent.
- Coaching for community manger to increase event participation by implementing new initiatives which grew the organizations membership.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Photojournalism
Point Park University
Pittsburgh, PAAssociate's Degree - Photography
Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PASkills
- Communications
- Writing
- Email and Social Media Marketing
- Weekly Newsletters
- Member Spotlights
- Problem Solving
- Community Management
- Program Coordination
- Relationship Building
- Digital Communications
- Remote Collaboration
- Content Creation
- Video Editing
- Podcasting
- Online Learning Facilitation
- Community engagement
- Workshop facilitation
- Strategic planning
- Event coordination
- Communication strategies
- Leadership development
- Growth strategies
- Team collaboration
- Processes and procedures
- Business planning
Accomplishments
Oversight of organizational policies, procedures, and guidelines which resulted in a streamlined onboarding experience for members and the team.
Collaborated with a team of 6 in the development of bylaws, agreements, and contacts for a non-profit board of advisors.
Documented and resolved membership conversion issues by conducting 10 ideal member interviews to align the content with member interest in sharing their skills which led to member-led events.
Achieved boosted member engagement by designing and executing surveys and colleted data to align with member needs.
Tools And Platforms
- WordPress
- YouTube
- Mighty Networks
- Circle
- Eventbrite
- Zoom
- Google Workspace
- Canva
- Mailchimp
- Slack
Continued Education
- YouMap Coach Certification, 2022, YouMap LLC
- Community Professional Certification of Excellence, 2021, The Community Leaders Institute
- The Community Design Masterclass, 2020, Mighty Networks
- The Community MBA, 2020, CMX acquired by Bevy
Timeline
Community Consultant & Business Development Coach
ALX Ventures Accelerator
08.2024 - 10.2024
Communications Coordinator and Community Consultant
Clocktower Advisors
06.2022 - 06.2023
Group Facilitator and Coach
The Network Incubator
04.2022 - 10.2024
Co-Founder & Board Member
Community Consultants Collective (CCC)
08.2021 - 12.2023
Consultant
Find Calm Here LLC
01.2020 - Current
Associate's Degree - Photography
Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Bachelor's Degree - Photojournalism
Point Park University