Michele Cole
Lacey,WA
Summary
Results-driven communications professional with over 20 years of experience in strategic media and public relations, stakeholder engagement, and crisis communications. Proven track record of developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies to advance organizational objectives. Skilled in crafting compelling messaging, coordinating media interactions, and providing strategic guidance to executive leadership. Committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Dept. of Ecology Communications Consultant
Washington State
06.2022 - Current
- Developed and implemented communication plans and strategies for diverse audiences, including public-facing website content, social media campaigns, and news releases.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to design and implement communications plans, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Produced visually compelling fact sheets, brochures, graphics, story maps, and presentations to convey key messages effectively.
- Collaborated with stakeholders and partner agencies to develop collaborative communications efforts.
- Strengthened relationships with key stakeholders by maintaining open lines of communication throughout projects from initiation to completion stages.
- Improved employee engagement through development of effective internal communication strategies and initiatives.
- Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
Nonprofit Executive Director & Consultant
Self Employed Services
01.2009 - 01.2023
- Developed and maintained partnerships with diverse community organizations, focusing on environmental preservation and restoration initiatives
- Managed administrative duties including budgeting, volunteer coordination, and board communication
- Provided strategic guidance to support the organization's mission and goals, including crisis communication planning.
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Monitored compliance with laws and regulations to protect organization from legal liabilities and penalties.
- Established and maintained strong relationships with customers, vendors and strategic partners.
Business & Communications Manager
Whole Foods Market And Independent Broker
01.2002 - 01.2022
- Created and implemented budgets, business plans, and marketing strategies to drive organizational growth
- Evaluated existing communication strategies and made data-driven recommendations for improvement, resulting in increased overall effectiveness.
- Oversaw social media presence and aligned posts to include branding and trending ideas.
- Fostered positive relationships with key business journalists in national and trade publications.
- Coordinated corporate giving and social media campaigns to enhance brand visibility and community engagement
- Advised executive leadership on strategic communication decisions and provided guidance during crisis situations.
Community Outreach & Event Coordinator
Whole Foods Market
01.2002 - 01.2017
- Consulted with stakeholders to develop and implement community outreach and event strategies, ensuring compliance and coordination of logistics.
- Handled crisis management situations promptly, minimizing negative impact on event outcomes and client satisfaction.
- Cultivated strong partnerships with local businesses, securing in-kind donations or sponsorships for various occasions.
- Administered fundraising activities and sponsorships, fostering strategic partnerships to support organizational objectives.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless event execution and positive outcomes.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
Southern New Hampshire University
On Line03.2024
Skills
- Strategic Media and Public Relations
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Crisis Communication
- Message Crafting
- Event Coordination
- Budgeting and Financial Management
- Partnership Development
- Community Outreach
Dnr Core Competencies
- Personal Accountability
- Value Others
- Compassionate Communication
- Inspire Others
- Commitment to Excellence
Training
- Accessibility
- Plain Talk
- Project Management
- Government to Government
- Media Training
- Public Participation
- Adobe Creative Suite
Affiliations
- Sustainability Committee, DEIR Committee, Environmental Justice Committee
Timeline
Dept. of Ecology Communications Consultant
Washington State
06.2022 - Current
Nonprofit Executive Director & Consultant
Self Employed Services
01.2009 - 01.2023
Business & Communications Manager
Whole Foods Market And Independent Broker
01.2002 - 01.2022
Community Outreach & Event Coordinator
Whole Foods Market
01.2002 - 01.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Communications
Southern New Hampshire University
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