Communications Specialist Social Media

Lon Tegels

*********@*****.*** • 419-***-**** • El Dorado, Arkansas • linkedin.com/in/tegels

QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

PUBLIC RELATIONS, COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIST AND CONTENT PRODUCTION

Experienced communications specialist skilled at simplifying complex ideas, problem-solving, and content production. A critical thinker and efficient under pressure, delivering clear, impactful messages on tight deadlines.

Content Creation: Experienced content creator skilled in writing, video composition, and camera operation. Expert at crafting engaging, brand-driven content. Proficient in Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, and AP Style. Known for accurate, on-the-fly presentation and thorough research, consistently delivering persuasive and polished content across various platforms.

Media Relations- I have experience in media relations with a vast U.S. network, collaborating on short- and long-term projects, including crisis communication. Skilled in working with industry professionals and cross-functional teams and partnered with the Dean and faculty to develop a strategic college branding plan.

Marketing & Brand Management: Experienced content creator with video production, writing, and brand design expertise. Skilled in Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, and Canva. Known for successful marketing campaigns that build viewership and promote on-screen personalities. Proficient in identifying key audiences and using diverse strategies to drive engagement and growth. Developed Your News Now, Hometown Stations, Your Local Choice.

Logistics & Organization: Skilled in strategic planning and process improvement, balancing multiple priorities. Coordinated the Heaven's Gate tragedy. Developed logistics for major events and natural disaster responses, including hurricanes, wildfires, and elections, ensuring smooth execution and effective communication.

Key Strengths: Accomplished leader in strategic communications, skilled in event coordination, messaging, editing, writing, and videography. Expert in camera operation, team management, and deadline-driven work. Proficient in budgeting, copywriting, non-linear editing, and web/broadcast copyediting, delivering high-quality results under pressure.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

SOUTH ARKANSAS REGIONAL HOSPITAL- El Dorado, AR

Communication Director-Marketing, Internal Communications and Social Media 2/2024 to present.

As Communications Director, I write news releases, created graphics for the UpShow system, and produced video and still photo content for the hospital. I managed social media programs across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. I recruited participants for events like the MayHaw Festival, Mad Movie Monday, Outdoor Expo, and MusicFest. I coordinated event promotion, built community partnerships, and ensured consistent messaging to enhance the hospital's visibility. Additionally, I represented the hospital at health fairs and events, engaging directly with the community.

The UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS at MONTICELLO- Monticello, AR

Communications Director- College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources (5/2019 to 2/2024)

At UAM, home to Arkansas' only Forestry College, I led strategic planning and branding efforts, its research, and curriculum. I built the communications department, managed media equipment purchases, and responded to media requests. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, I created social media content, was the primary videographer for forestry and agriculture stories, and produced weekly videos. I researched and wrote news releases and planned 2events like, Tomato at the Trotter and Weevil Stampede. In a split appointment with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, I'm also a licensed FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (Drone).

KJNB-TV – FOX/CBS, Jonesboro, AR & WNBJ-TV – NBC/CW, Jackson, TN

News Director (6/2017 – 6/2019)

Managed two entire news teams for two stations in two locations, from staff development to coaching and mentorship. Fulfilled the role of managing editor in content selection and story assignments. Choose subject matter carefully to ensure brand integrity, viewer interest, and value. We constructed news operations for two stations in multiple locations from the ground up. I hired entire staff for each site. Responsible for the maintenance of digital content on both websites. Built stations' teams and brands to compete with leading competitors in the market in only six months. Introduced and facilitated community news format, stressing genuine community interest rather than relying on shock value.

WVNS-TV – CBS/FOX, Beckley, WV

News Director (10/2015 – 2/2017)

Planned and produced news programming to maintain high editorial and creative standards, driving long-term audience growth. Directed content selection for viewer relevance, managed budgets and sold new projects to leadership. Led a team of thirty-two team members in local news operations, recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, and goal setting.

WBRZ-TV – ABC, Baton Rouge, LA

Assistant News Director (10/2014 – 7/2015)

Provided mentorship and coaching to the news team, collaborating on long-term goals. Coordinated schedules, editorial meetings, and sweep plans. Supervised 70 staff across administration, reporters, producers, and photographers.

WXXV-TV – FOX/NBC Duopoly, Gulfport and Biloxi, MS

News Director (6/2013 – 10/2014)

Built the news department from the ground up—securing equipment, recruiting staff, and establishing a distinct brand. Oversaw every detail, from office setup to content strategy, surpassing rating goals and launching a news website successfully. Provided ongoing feedback to a 15-member team to drive excellence and engagement.

Directed all aspects of news operations, including daily broadcasts, team management, online content, and breaking news coverage. Leveraged cross-platform promotion to boost market share, emphasizing unique linear channel coverage. Ensured quality assurance by prioritizing accurate reporting, compelling storytelling, and timely, fair coverage while championing a "face on a story" approach.

WLIO-TV – NBC/FOX, WOHL-TV – ABC/CBS, Lima, OH

News Director (3/2003 – 5/2013)

Pioneered a national initiative by merging four stations under one roof, creating and executing marketing and branding strategies. Led broadcast and digital news operations, overseeing staff recruitment, training, and performance. Managed newsgathering, special reports, and community event coverage. Developed and maintained a social media presence, including a new website, in collaboration with marketing. Ensured brand integrity and prominence

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism

Iowa State University, Ames, IA

Awards: Outstanding News Operation of the Virginias (AP) – 2016 • Outstanding New Operation (Ohio AP) – 2008 •Best Spot Coverage, Tuttle Construction Gas Explosion – 2008 • Best Cont. Coverage, Bluffton Baseball Tragedy – 2007 •Outstanding Overall Weather Operation (Ohio AP) – 2007 • Outstanding News Operation (Ohio AP) – 2006

Contact this candidate