Communications Director, Editor

COREY L. BLACKMAN

**** ***** ***. • Pennsauken, N.J. • 08109

856-***-**** | **************@*****.***

News media professional with vast experience in reporting stories for print and the Web; constantly generating and developing new story ideas on a regular basis; A very talented and effective Communications Manager with exceptional writing, editing, speaking and promotional skills

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

• Outstanding track-record in problem-solving, analytical and creative thinking skills in a complex environment

• Documented ability to effectively communicate internally, externally, and build strong relationships

• Creative presenter, teacher, instructor, trainer and coach.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and communicate efficiently with executive management

• Attention to detail and ability to make decisions independently and collaboratively

• Unique ability to analyze large volumes of information

• Well-organized, self-motivated individual with ability to learn quickly

• Experience interviewing subjects and authoring articles for publication

• Proven record of working well under constant deadline pressure

• Extensive experience in multicultural environments

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Christian Armory, Long Beach, N.Y. Feb. 2010-

Communications Manager

• Responsible for all internal and external communication, marketing, public relations and advertising for a nonprofit organization.

• Write dynamic, well-received speeches for the Executive Director and other top executives for various audiences.

• Prepare Executive Director about issues prior to media interviews and public presentations.

• Educated members of the New York City Council about the importance of reducing childhood obesity by introducing a public affairs campaign that promoted the organization.

• Launch several successful direct-mail advertisement campaigns to inform target area.

• Develop and implement comprehensive advertisement plan to launch the clinic.

• Organize and direct special events, seasonal campaigns and fundraisers to promote the clinic and its services.

• Senior writer and editor for high-profile projects including Web site, executive-level presentations, newsletter programs, etc.

• Develop and write position papers, articles, conference presentations, press releases and other forms of corporate communication.

• Generate significant savings for clinic by utilizing graphic design and photography skills in print advertisement.

• Plan the production and distribution of the clinic’s internal and external publications.

• Execute pre-screening and/ or final face-to-face interviews for mid-level and executive positions and support all parties concerned with assessment.

• Hire an effective Corporate Communications team.

• Manage, monitor and motivate teams assigned to projects.

• Established excellent relationships with print, television and radio media.

Associated Press, New York, N.Y. May 2006 – Nov. 2009

Editor

• Edited graphics and stories for clarity, content and AP style from writers and artists in New York, Washington, Chicago and Japan.

• Ensured editorial accuracy and attention to technical detail for all assignments.

• Wrote headlines, subheads, complete copy and photo captions for international, national, business, sports feature print and Web graphics.

• Signed off on completed print and Web graphics prior to publication.

• Lead copy editor for 40th anniversary of moon landing, Michael Jackson’s death, national Stress Index, World Cup tournament and other major news events.

• Served as supervisor for vacation and sick relief.

• Acted as liaison between news desks to ensure consistency in department’s editorial goals.

• Researched stories and events for details on historical and current events.

• Produced and wrote copy for Associated Press’ daily, sports and weekly photo galleries.

• Acquired essential skills in Photoshop, Illustrator and FreeHand.

Associated Press, New York, N.Y. June 1994 – May 2006

Editorial Assistant

• Write text for graphics and full pages

• Proofread print and Web graphics before publication.

• Identified newsworthy stories for graphics.

• Researched historical and current event stories.

• Provided technical support for more than 800 member clients.

• Collaborated with IT to maintain, improve and troubleshoot transmission and reception issues.

Final Call News, Chicago, Ill. March 1998 – May 2006

Writer & Photographer

• From New York City office writing under the name of Corey Muhammad, delivered national and local news for print and online audiences for a media outlet that has received numerous awards for national and international news reporting.

• Reported high profile stories including the deadly shooting of unarmed West African male Amadou Diallo, the dismissal of a lawsuit against the Nation of Islam by police officers after storming the New York City mosque and the nationwide Taking Responsibility initiative and tour led by comedian and activist Dr. Bill Cosby.

• One of only two reporters invited to witness and report on the historic truce between rival Bloods and Crips street gangs.

• Worked closely with Editor and Managing Editor to develop and determine story angles and editorial content.

EDUCATION

Indiana Institute of Technology (Ft. Wayne, Ind)/N.Y. Institute of Technology (N.Y., N.Y.)

Completed 89 credits of a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering.

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