James A. Penna
Johnstown,PA
Summary
Strategic-thinking individual with strong interpersonal and public speaking skills. Proven track record in identifying and achieving goals of 13th largest Fortune 500 company both as a team leader and team member. Experience in handling a wide range of subject matter challenges with ability to adapt quickly, understand changing landscapes and implement measures in a fast-paced environment.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Pennsylvania State Director Government Affairs
Eos Energy Systems
10.2023 - Current
- Spearheaded critical projects including PA Department of Community and Economic Development negotiations and presentations to fund $55 million expansion.
- Represented Eos at conferences, meetings, and other events to establish relationships with external partners instrumental in furthering legislative agenda.
Director of External and Legislative Affairs
AT&T
04.2013 - 09.2023
- Managed local, state, and federal relationships that benefit the programs and policies of AT&T in 29 Pennsylvania Counties.
- Enabled effective policy change and implementation through creation of third party and grassroots support.
- Increased recognition and reputation of company brand through both direct dialogue with stakeholders and large-scale public speaking engagements.
- Coordinated media communications and events in partnership with public affairs.
- Led crisis communications and media relations activities in response to challenging situations.
- Collaborated with over one hundred organizations dedicated to closing digital divide, early childhood education, public safety and social justice initiatives while delivering over $800,000 of foundation grants in support of those efforts.
District Director for Congressman Mark S. Critz
United States House Of Representatives
05.2010 - 01.2013
- Established strategies, plans and activities in district for Member.
- Filled primary leadership role within district in handling staff while addressing wide ranging constituent services.
- Developed and implemented policy objectives in Congressman's district while directing all office staff serving over 760,000 constituents.
- Built consensus among local and state office holders for economic development priorities.
- Presented on behalf of Member in public, private and media settings.
- Credited in part for surprise primary victory following redistricting that titled 2 to 1 in favor of incumbent opponent, winning 52% of vote.
News Director/News Anchor
ABC/FOX , Peak Media
01.1999 - 11.2009
- Assigned stories, delegated work and edited pieces.
- Assisted team members with researching stories, finding guests and conducting interviews.
- Wrote and delivered up to 20 daily pieces in deadline-driven environment.
- Oversaw development of as many as 200 stories each week.
- As senior anchor presented developments in stories during live broadcasts and pre-recorded programming.
- Specialized in political reporting, investigative news and long form multi segment feature presentations.
- Credited by United Steel Workers of America for saving pensions of 800 members through investigative efforts.
- Was first news shop in country to refuse to air O.J. Simpson murder denial special, replacing with and creating documentary on domestic violence.
Relevant Experience
Boards, Awards And Volunteerism
07.2007 - Current
- Director of Communications Office of Mayor, City of Harrisburg.
- Board Member Ken Lantzy All Star Football Classic.
- Past Board member Conemaugh Creighton Rehabilitation Inpatient Unit. Improved patient safety and facility rating..
- Board Member Outstanding Young Woman Scholarship Pageant awarding $250,000 in scholarship funding.
- President Richland Football Boosters Organization. Increased efficiency and organizational productivity by promoting operational best practices.
- Broadcast Award winner Radio and Television.
- Author and playwright
Education
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, PA08.1986
Skills
- Strong public speaker
- Can quickly grasp complicated issues with ability to explain those issues in clear, concise and simplified form
- Consensus builder
- Anticipate issues and outcomes of proposed strategies
- Crisis management and crisis communications skills
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Adept at building grassroots and third-party support
Timeline
Pennsylvania State Director Government Affairs
Eos Energy Systems
10.2023 - Current
Director of External and Legislative Affairs
AT&T
04.2013 - 09.2023
District Director for Congressman Mark S. Critz
United States House Of Representatives
05.2010 - 01.2013
Relevant Experience
Boards, Awards And Volunteerism
07.2007 - Current
News Director/News Anchor
ABC/FOX , Peak Media
01.1999 - 11.2009
Bachelor of Science - Communications
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
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