Tran Van Kirk
Norfolk,VA
Summary
With over 20 years of experience in multimedia marketing and management, I have successfully utilized social media, web-based applications, photo/video journalism, and digital/print media to drive impactful campaigns. As an executive member of the City of Virginia Beach Inclusion and Diversity Council and the City Managers Advisory Committee, I possess a strong understanding of the Hampton Roads Region's multicultural community and workforce. Additionally, I collaborated with the City of Virginia Beach Departments of Police/Fire/EMS/OEM and the FAA to establish the city's sUAS (drone) program. My FEMA-trained communications background, coupled with event planning/logistics experience, and documentary film making was instrumental during the VDEM/EMAC Deployment for the 2024 Hurricane Helene Event where I served as VDEM Region 4 PIO and Media Content Creator. As a strategic Multimedia Communications Professional, I excel in developing and implementing innovative digital, internal, and external communication strategies as well as story telling through film. My advanced writing skills, strategic planning abilities, and corporate communications expertise make me an invaluable asset committed to supporting your company's initiatives and programs.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Multimedia Communications Specialist II
Communications Department -City of Virginia Beach
02.2018 - Current
- Perform all aspects of video and multimedia production from project conception to successful conclusion with little or no supervision
- Direct multiple camera productions in studio, mobile production truck, and field productions
- Operate all types of video and multimedia equipment and software, to include studio and field cameras, audio mixers, linear and non-liner editing equipment and software, video recorders, lighting instruments, character generators, switchers, vectorscopes, waveform monitors, and related equipment
- Establish project format based on equipment availability, footage acquired, resources, and time limitations
- Select and/or make recommendations on animations, graphics, and music based on enhancing the project and achieving the desired project objectives; during conceptual stage of projects, assist in determining technical and creative viability of an idea and propose alternatives as needed
- Facilitate, train, assist, and direct staff in the completion of assigned duties and equipment usage
- Work with school and City staff and outside agencies to produce the most effective product within time and resources available
- Provide input to the division coordinator on various decision-making processes including programming, equipment selection, and division direction
- Recognize, troubleshoot, and resolve production problems
- Design and light studio and location sets with special attention to appropriate appearance and ease of use
- Unmanned Aerial Systems Pilot in Command for the City of Virginia Beach for city wide departments with a vested interest in UAS technology and its’ applications
- Provide support for the City’s Public Safety Agencies for UAS missions
- Assume 'ALPHA' status (on call 24/7) in case of emergency or inclement weather
- Perform other job duties requiring skills, knowledge and physical requirements as demanded by those duties described or less
- Individual assignments will be determined by the supervisor based on then current workloads and department needs
- Streamlined internal communication processes by implementing effective communication tools and platforms.
- Copyedited, proofread and revised company advertisements, print materials and press releases before dispersal.
- Created persuasive sales collateral that effectively communicated product benefits, resulting in increased lead generation efforts.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create cohesive messaging for promotional materials and events.
- Collaborated with journalism and marketing teams to compile information and align company messaging.
- Took photographs and videos during special events for promotional materials and social media pages.
- Developed ideas and leads for new stories according to industry trends.
- Coordinated with creative and design teams to produce high-quality visuals for marketing materials.
- Designed and executed public relations strategies that positively shifted public perception.
- Advised senior management on communication risks and opportunities, influencing strategic decisions.
- Used various social media platforms for media and blogger outreach.
- Studied objectives, promotional policies or needs of organizations to develop public relations strategies influencing public opinion or promoting ideas.
Multimedia Communications Specialist I-Fire Dpt.
City of Virginia Beach
08.2010 - 02.2018
- Direct the work of the VBFD Multimedia Services Unit personnel, volunteers, and interns, including task assignment, work schedule approval, and job performance evaluation; administer City personnel policies; and confer with employees concerning professional development, assess needs and arrange for appropriate training
- Prepare and manage the VBFD Multimedia Services budget
- Plan and perform all aspects of video and multimedia projects, including concept, design, format, script writing, crew scheduling, field production, and editing; does related work as required
- Maintain and manage the VBFD government website
- Maintain and manage all aspect of VBFD social media
- Unmanned Aerial Systems program developer for the City of Virginia Beach Fire Department and Department of Emergency Management and assist other city departments with a vested interest in UAS technology and its’ applications
Manager of Social and Multimedia Marketing
Soles4Souls, Inc.
01.2008 - 08.2010
- Shooting, producing, and editing video productions for Soles4Souls Documentaries and marketing videos
- Prepare and manage operating budget for the company's multimedia marketing department
- Traveling domestically and internationally to chronicle the mission of Soles4Souls through multi-media channels
- Utilizing Avid Xpress Pro, Final Cut Studio, Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop CS3/Illustrator/Premier, Quark Express, DreamWeaver MX, Vegas Video and Panasonic P2- AVX-200 HD hardware
- Establishing and managing marketing networks through social based websites including Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, and Ammado
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Managed budget allocations to prioritize spending on high-impact projects, optimizing resource utilization.
News Photographer / Chief Video Editor
Sinclair Broadcasting Group – FOX 17 News
04.2005 - 01.2008
- Edited News SOT, VO, Teases, News Packages, series pieces, and VOSOTS for Newscast using the Avid Newscutter XP non-linear video editing program
- Managed a team of 6 news video editors to ensure strict news broadcast editing deadlines were met
- Assisted the Chief Photographer and News Director with preparing and managing an operating budget for live news broadcast production
- Utilized Avid News Cutter and Panasonic DVC Pro
- Assisted Executive News Director, News Anchors, and Senior News Director with the smooth operation of Fox 17 live news broadcast programs in any capacity needed
- Completed video shooting and editing assignments as directed by the News Assignment Desk
- Met video editing package deadlines for the news broadcast
- Worked with News Reporters and News Anchors to produce top quality news stories
Senior Production Assistant
Sinclair Broadcasting Group – FOX 17 News
12.2004 - 04.2005
- Floor directed for live broadcast news
- Supervised a team of Production Assistants and college interns
- Coordinated and distributed news scripts for broadcast news
- Assisted Executive News Director, News Anchors, and Senior News Director with the smooth operation of Fox 17 live news broadcast programs
Guest Services Team Leader (Assistant Manager)
Target Corporation
08.2001 - 12.2004
- Supervise front end cashiers, Guest Services team members, and cash office personnel
- Assist management with meeting sales goals
- Resolve guest service issues as it pertains to sales related discrepancies
- Set performance expectations for the team, monitoring progress towards goals and providing constructive feedback as needed.
- Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
- Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Maintained an inclusive and diverse team culture, promoting respect and understanding among all members.
Police Sergeant/Narcotics Detective
Murfreesboro Police Department
05.1991 - 08.2001
- Assisted in the interview and hiring process of new recruits and internal promotions
- Tracked and maintained computerized statistical data related to law enforcement effectiveness of my assigned shift, the effectiveness of the Narcotics/Vice Unit, and the effectiveness of training
- Investigated and prosecuted criminal investigations pertaining to the enforcement of the drug, gambling, and prostitution laws of the State of Tennessee
- Successfully implemented and developed the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program; assisted in authoring a $2,000,000 federal grant received in establishing the COPS Unit
- Served as mentor and role model to junior officers.
- Supervised and coordinated daily operations of patrol shifts of up to 30 officers.
- Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
- Managed personnel schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for shifts while minimizing overtime expenses.
- Guided officers through difficult situations, backing up teams onsite and advising on strategic decisions.
- Managed daily scheduling of patrol personnel, ensuring adequate coverage during peak hours or special events.
- Conducted regular evaluations of officers'' strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement to enhance overall team performance.
- Participated in ongoing training programs to remain current on law enforcement trends, tactics, and technologies.
- Led successful investigations, resulting in the apprehension of suspects and resolution of criminal cases.
- Led teams by example, consistently demonstrating correct behaviors and enforcing policies and procedures.
- Conveyed important information at start of each shift such as areas of focus and persons of interest in local areas.
- Developed comprehensive reports on patrol activities to provide transparency and inform future decision-making processes.
- Inspected officers and vehicles to identify and correct any unprofessional appearances.
- Responded to call-outs during periods of low coverage or high demand to serve public in Rutherford County, TN.
- Reduced crime rates within the community by implementing proactive policing strategies and fostering positive relationships with residents.
- Served as a liaison between the police department and other community organizations to foster positive relationships and facilitate collaborative efforts on crime prevention initiatives.
- Established a strong rapport with citizens by attending community meetings regularly to address concerns or answer questions about public safety issues.
- Assisted in developing departmental policies that supported fair treatment and equal opportunity for all employees.
- Mentored junior officers, providing guidance on department policies, procedures, and best practices for effective law enforcement.
- Increased officer accountability and performance through consistent evaluation, feedback, and training opportunities.
- Deescalated potentially dangerous situations using crisis intervention techniques that protected both officers and civilians from harm.
- Collaborated with local organizations to create crime prevention initiatives that addressed specific community concerns.
- Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.
- Conducted investigations to identify suspicious activities, violations of policies and regulations and potential threats.
Police Officer
Middle Tennessee State University
08.1990 - 05.1991
- Basic patrol duties
- Assisted Field Training Officers with training of new recruits
- Investigated on campus crimes against persons and property
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Photojournalism, Computer Graphics Design
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, Tennessee12.2005
Associate of Arts - Photography, Computer Graphics Design
Nossi College of Art
Madison, Tennessee05.2005
Skills
- Internal Communications
- Event Coordination
- Social Media Management
- Marketing
- Documentary Film Making
- Cinematography
- Adobe Creative Suite Expert
Certification
FAA Part 107 Certified sUAS Pilot, 01/01/17, Present
Accomplishments
- 2022, Cannes World Film Festival, Winner – Best Inspirational Feature Film
- 2022, Cannes World Film Festival, Nominated- Best Director- Documentary Feature Film
- 2022, Cannes World Film Festival, Finalist – Best Documentary Feature
- 2023, Docs Without Borders International Film Festival, Official Selection
- 2023, Docs Without Borders World Film Festival, Excellence- for Documentary Feature Film
- 2023, 44th Annual Telly Awards, Silver Telly for Long Format Documentary
- 2023, The Viet International Film Fest, Official Selection
Community Service
- Executive Board Member of the East Ocean View Civic League, 12/01/18, 12/01/22
- Race Director for the Annual Ocean View Storm the Bay Race Series, 09/01/21, Present
- President and Co-Founder of the SEAcoast2Coast Foundation, 12/01/21, Present
- Executive Board Member for the Amerasian Coalition, 08/01/20, Present
Timeline
Multimedia Communications Specialist II
Communications Department -City of Virginia Beach
02.2018 - Current
Multimedia Communications Specialist I-Fire Dpt.
City of Virginia Beach
08.2010 - 02.2018
Manager of Social and Multimedia Marketing
Soles4Souls, Inc.
01.2008 - 08.2010
News Photographer / Chief Video Editor
Sinclair Broadcasting Group – FOX 17 News
04.2005 - 01.2008
Senior Production Assistant
Sinclair Broadcasting Group – FOX 17 News
12.2004 - 04.2005
Guest Services Team Leader (Assistant Manager)
Target Corporation
08.2001 - 12.2004
Police Sergeant/Narcotics Detective
Murfreesboro Police Department
05.1991 - 08.2001
Police Officer
Middle Tennessee State University
08.1990 - 05.1991
Associate of Arts - Photography, Computer Graphics Design
Nossi College of Art
Bachelor of Arts - Photojournalism, Computer Graphics Design
Austin Peay State University