Career Summary
I segued 12 years as a researcher at a senior-level executive search firm into an award-winning journalism career. Skills: advanced computer strengths, excellent oral and written communications, detail and deadline driven.
The Santa Rosa Press Democrat Staff Writer July 2000 to Aug. 2009
The Press Democrat is a New York Times regional daily.
Community Reporter (2003 to 2009) covering philanthropy/ volunteering and contributing to special projects including “Green Living,” Santa Rosa Magazine,” and the holiday “Helping Hand” campaign. Created and launched “Good Deeds,” a top ten blog. Recognized in 2007 by The Peninsula Press Club’s annual Professional Journalism Awards for a series, “Roseland Journal.”
- Ability to collect, compile and interpret data from numerous sources
- Excellent listening, oral and written communication skills
- Highly developed research expertise including non-traditional sources
- Protecting confidential sources of information using common sense to limit liability
- Without supervision, managed multi-faceted projects while meeting fluid deadlines
- Proficient computer skills including: Microsoft Suite and social networking platforms
Business Reporter (2000 to 2003) covering personal finance, stock markets, venture capital and leadership profiles. The Press Democrat’s business and technology team was named one of the best business sections in the nation by the Society of Business Editors and Writers (SABEW) for 2001, 2002 and 2003.
Leon A. Farley Associates Director of Research Aug. 1988 to July 2000
Based in San Francisco, this search firm was part of Penrhyn International a global search consortium.
Reporting directly to founder, identified initial slate of candidates for Fortune 500-level retained search assignments. Also personal assistant to Mr. Farley whose non-profit board activities included A.C.T., Marin County Shakespeare Festival and Summer Search.
- Ability to listen, communicate and commit to completing tasks in the most efficient sequence possible
- Confidential social secretary to active community leader including diplomatic gate keeping, travel scheduling, conference and entertainment planning
San Francisco Chronicle & Examiner Columnist 1998 to 2000
Wrote weekly column entitled “What Works,” which offered career and interviewing advice. Also published in the Sunday Seattle Times, Santa Rosa Press Democrat and California Business Journal.
- Taught creative writing at Book Passage (Corte Madera)
- Experienced public speaker including reading my own short stories on National Public Radio (NPR) broadcasts
- Self-syndicated “What Works” to multiple markets
COMMUNITY SERVICE/VOLUNTEERING
Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chaplain Service 2007 to Present
Chaplains are entrusted with the responsibility of making death notifications and supporting families in the first few hours of grief. They act as liaison with officers, coroners and funeral homes. Eight months (88 hours) of training included in-depth segments on police culture, gang culture, mandatory reporting, officer-involved shootings, and post-traumatic stress debriefing.
Sonoma County Sheriff Dept. Citizens Academy #22 Graduate - May 2008
Seventeen week training (Feb. to May 2008) focused on organization and goals of county law enforcement and intersection with city agencies and the courts.
Judge – Animal Planet’s World’s Ugliest Dog Contest 2007 & 2008
FREELANCE SYNOPSIS:
Online contributor: Office.com, CBS on-line magazine (2000 to 2001). Contributing Author: New York Times (2001) bestseller Chicken Soup for the Gardeners Soul. Guest Editor: San Francisco monthly, Noe Valley Voice (1997 to 2000) and Satire Magazine (1997 to 1999). Speaker/Trainer: 2004 IRE Conference/SF. Editorial contributor to Glamour Magazine, the Miami Herald, Mervyn’s “View” (a Sunset Magazine publication), S.F. Examiner and Chronicle, BARK, Seattle Times Sunday, Magazine, Satire, Benefit Magazine and California Job Journal.
I bring good humor and high standards to every challenge.
References available on request.
