John Russo-Zirkel
Summary
Experienced audio production and communications professional with a diverse background in live sound, broadcast television, public relations, and event management. Demonstrated leadership skills in team management, project coordination, and consistently delivering top-notch results in both creative and technical fields. Skilled in executing strategic campaigns, boosting brand exposure, and fostering effective partnerships within dynamic work settings.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Audio Engineer
Freelance
10.2019 - Current
- Operated recording equipment to capture high-quality audio for various projects.
- Collaborated with artists to refine sound and achieve desired artistic vision.
- Edited and mixed audio tracks using industry-standard software tools for optimal clarity.
- Maintained organized session files, ensuring efficiency during post-production processes.
- Assisted in troubleshooting technical issues related to recording hardware and software.
- Engineer live and studio productions for a variety of artists including The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Frank Iero, and more.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of audio technologies to improve production efficiency.
AVL Technician
Calvary Community Church
08.2024 - 07.2025
- Operated audio and visual equipment for worship services and special events.
- Collaborated with team to set up and troubleshoot technical systems.
- Managed inventory of AV equipment, ensuring availability for scheduled services.
- Assisted in maintaining sound quality during live performances.
- Implemented efficient setup procedures to streamline event transitions.
Public Relations Agent
High Road Publicity
11.2022 - 07.2025
- Coordinate with artists and management, draft press releases, and execute full PR campaigns.
- Secured placements on top music playlists, boosting artist visibility and engagement.
- Develop strategic communication plans, achieving notable increases in media coverage.
- Enhance public image of artists through targeted media outreach and relationship building.
- Analyze campaign performance, adjusting strategies to maximize media exposure and impact.
Audio Department Lead
Higher Vision Church
01.2022 - 08.2024
- Operated audio and visual equipment for worship services and special events.
- Developed training materials for staff, fostering skill development and teamwork.
- Coordinated volunteer efforts, ensuring alignment with church mission and values.
- Oversaw budget management, optimizing resource allocation for various church activities.
- Managed inventory of AV equipment, ensuring availability for scheduled services.
Series Creator
Sounds of the Underground
04.2019 - 11.2022
- Developed and executed four seasons of the alternative rock TV series "Sounds of the Underground".
- Facilitated network relations (CBS, Amazon) and cultivated brand partnerships, boosting series' market presence.
- Supervised production team, ensuring seamless operations and timely project completion.
- Managed social media platforms, driving community engagement through timely and relevant posts.
- Analyzed audience feedback to refine content strategies and improve user experience.
- Designed sets, mixed live and broadcast audio, and edited post-production for high-quality content delivery.
Events and Filming Coordinator
Saddlerock Ranch
10.2019 - 03.2020
- Coordinated event logistics, ensuring seamless execution of weddings and corporate functions.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by responding promptly to inquiries and addressing concerns professionally.
- Collaborated with department heads to develop strategic plans aligning with overall company objectives, fostering a unified approach toward shared goals.
Co-Founder
Reverse The Trend 501c.3
09.2012 - 04.2019
- Led the organization and execution of 500+ anti-bullying concert events, reaching numerous schools and colleges.
- Collaborated with educational institutions to tailor impactful programs, enhancing community support.
- Analyzed event outcomes to refine strategies, ensuring continuous improvement and measurable success.
- Developed strategic initiatives to enhance community engagement and outreach programs.
- Oversaw program implementation, ensuring alignment with mission and goals of organization.
- Touring manager, spokesperson, and audio engineer.
Tour Guide
Malibu Wine Safari
12.2016 - 10.2019
- Led engaging tours for diverse groups through a private ranch featuring exotic animals, including giraffes and zebras, ensuring memorable and educational experiences.
- Conducted curated wine tastings, articulating flavor profiles, origins, and production methods to enhance guests' appreciation of fine wines.
- Trained and mentored new guides in storytelling, hospitality best practices, and safety protocols, elevating overall tour quality and consistency.
- Partnered with social media influencers to increase brand visibility and attract new clientele through targeted exposure.
Production Coordinator
Circle 8 Productions
01.2019 - 04.2019
- Managed and negotiated production and advertising contracts, ensuring compliance, favorable terms, and timely execution.
- Sourced and secured new program segments, expanding content offerings and contributing to audience growth.
- Streamlined production scheduling across teams to optimize efficiency, reduce downtime, and meet tight broadcast deadlines.
Marketing Intern
S-Curve Records
01.2012 - 04.2012
- Worked alongside the marketing and radio promotions departments for high profile artists such as Andy Grammer and We The Kings.
- Prepared reports detailing project updates, performance information and ongoing trends.
- Collaborated with team members to execute strategies effectively.
Radio DJ
Monmouth University
11.2011 - 05.2012
- Curated diverse playlists tailored to audience preferences and event themes.
- Utilized advanced sound equipment to ensure high-quality audio during live performances.
- Adapted music selection in real-time based on crowd reactions and atmosphere changes.
Education
BA - Marketing Communications
Berkeley College
01.2016
Monmouth University
Long Branch, NJ01.2012
Dante A/V Certified - undefined
Audinate
Skills
- Project Management
- Strategic Planning
- Communication & Public Relations
- Team Building & Leadership
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Event & Budget Management
- Content Creation & Social Media
- Marketing & Brand Development
- Sales & Customer Service
- Networking & Collaboration
- Data Analysis
- Audio Engineering
- Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
AVL Technician
Calvary Community Church
08.2024 - 07.2025
Public Relations Agent
High Road Publicity
11.2022 - 07.2025
Audio Department Lead
Higher Vision Church
01.2022 - 08.2024
Audio Engineer
Freelance
10.2019 - Current
Events and Filming Coordinator
Saddlerock Ranch
10.2019 - 03.2020
Series Creator
Sounds of the Underground
04.2019 - 11.2022
Production Coordinator
Circle 8 Productions
01.2019 - 04.2019
Tour Guide
Malibu Wine Safari
12.2016 - 10.2019
Co-Founder
Reverse The Trend 501c.3
09.2012 - 04.2019
Marketing Intern
S-Curve Records
01.2012 - 04.2012
Radio DJ
Monmouth University
11.2011 - 05.2012
Dante A/V Certified - undefined
Audinate
BA - Marketing Communications
Berkeley College
Monmouth University
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