Economic Development SpecialistAug 2014 to Current
Economic Development Division － City of Petaluma, Petaluma, CAPlan, implement, and analyze business retention and expansion programs to help Petaluma businesses start,
connect, and grow. Coordinate meetings, special initiatives, and industry
groups to identify challenges to and opportunities for local economic growth.
Serve as key customer service contact to help new and expanding businesses find
commercial real estate and navigate City permit requirements. Connect business
owners and entrepreneurs with business services, programs, and resources
provided by the City and other agencies such as Sonoma County Economic Development Board. Represent the City at
events sponsored by local business groups. Track and report on interactions with
current and prospective businesses. Develop marketing materials and information
sheets for Division website, social media, and quarterly newsletter, overseeing
work of vendors as needed. Prepare monthly and annual reports. Manage financial
and reporting requirements for the Visitor Services Program contract.
Owner/PrincipalJan 2011 to Aug 2014
Strategic Communications － Petaluma, CaliforniaIndependent marketing strategist and freelance writer hired by local businesses and publications to provide marketing and writing services. Met with clients to identify needs and scope out projects. Developed strategic plans for marketing via mail, e-mail, and advertisements. Coordinated sales seminars and other events. Wrote case studies, product brochures, and customer newsletters for businesses. Wrote feature articles for local business and lifestyle publications. Topics included senior wellness, local art exhibits, artisanal beverages, natural products, and technology.
Membership Services CoordinatorJun 2006 to Jan 2011
Domont Properties － Novato, CaliforniaServed as a key customer service representative for upscale fitness clubs. Developed and implemented lead generation programs for corporate membership program. Gave tours and completed sales and administrative activities related to new memberships. Responded to member requests for help solving problems in areas such as billing. Collaborated with other departments to sell services to new and existing members.
Bachelor of Arts, English1992University of California － Berkeley, CaliforniaGraduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa.
Master of Arts, Applied Linguistics1995Teachers College, Columbia University － New York, New York
UC Berkeley Extension － Berkeley, CaliforniaCoursework in Principles of Marketing; Market Research; Editing; and Public Relations.
