H ARRIET R AMONA C RAYTON 11403 Pepperdine Lane • Houston, TX 77071 cray59hr@ymail.com • 713.729.1115 (h) • 713.298.9306 (c) http://jonesinternational.confidentialresume.com/hr_crayton COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONAL Public Relations / Public Affairs / Liaison Officer Highly motivated, forward-thinking Communications professional with a track record for developing and implementing successful communications that deliver measurable results across the organization. Special flair for relating with a wide range of people, organizations, and businesses. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Articulate speaker, presenter, and writer with demonstrated analytical and interpersonal skills; talented at developing and disseminating information at audience-intended level. Proven capabilities in managing programs, projects, and staff. Hold Secret Security Clearance. Core Strengths: Communication Planning & Execution Public & Media Relations People, Product & Service Representation Program & Project Management Budget Administration Marketing & Sales Team Leadership & Coaching Meeting Management & Event Planning Relationship Management Conflict Mediation & Resolution PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE KELLOGG BROWN AND ROOT – Iraq, 12/2007 to 8/2010 Operations Coordinator (6/2009 to 8/2010); Liaison Officer (9/2008 to 6/2009); Administrative Specialist (12/2007 to 9/2008) Supported war efforts of US Army and coalition forces in Iraq by providing strategic operational support, open communication, and administrative services related to Theatre Transportation Management. Established and maintained solid working relationships with clients and other company personnel / units. Coordinated daily operations of asset key control and inventory systems, including effective communications with transportation leadership to ensure successful completion of missions. Supervised up to 50 employees. Facilitated communications between client and contractor’s management / operations, providing timely interchange of information. Selected Contributions: ♦ Collaborated with project teams to develop and implement common work processes and procedures. ♦ Played an instrumental role in helping identify client needs and formulating workable solutions. ♦ Acted as Team Leader for Plans, Policies, and Procedures; implemented training and monitored employee performance. ♦ Established and communicated production standards, monitored compliance, and recommended operational improvements as needed. ♦ Resolved conflicts between client and contractor to ensure smooth, seamless operations. …continued… H. RAMONA CRAYTON Page 2 GREATER HOUSTON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU – Houston, TX, 6/2001 to 11/2007 Convention Services Manager Participated in planning, evaluating, organizing, and directing sales / marketing activities and provided topnotch administrative support for Convention Services Department on behalf of the City of Houston and surrounding areas. Supervised staff planners in coordinating final details for conventions and meetings by anticipating needs, forecasting results, and analyzing / arranging work processes for customers while ensuring world-class service. Fielded customer inquiries and complaints in a professional, diplomatic, and timely manner to ensure guest satisfaction. Negotiated contract terms with potential clients and vendors. Organized entertainment and volunteer resources. Communicated on a regular basis with all media channels to effectively market the City of Houston and promote specific hosted events and groups. Selected Contributions: ♦ Represented Bureau in planning and executing press / media conferences. ♦ Provided input in strategic planning of visual content and images for company brochures, Web site, and diverse promotional / collateral materials. ♦ Reviewed and advised on development of city’s monthly official visitors’ guide. ♦ Conducted “Welcome to Houston” and “See you in Houston” presentations, city tours, site visits, and familiarization trips to meeting planners. ♦ Worked closely with organizers and meeting planners within assigned groups to develop effective communication plans and strategies for hosted groups. ♦ Developed and implemented organization’s Crisis Management Plan. AMERICAN GENERAL LIFE COMPANIES – Houston, TX, 9/1998 to 8/2000 Financial Services Manager Directed the day-to-day operations of the Annuity Administration Department’s Call Center for a leading insurance company, including supervision of 25 financial services representatives. . EDUCATION & CREDENTIAL JONES INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY – Centennial, CO MA in Business Communications with emphasis on Leadership and Influence (2010); GPA: 4.0 UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON – Houston, TX BS in Interdisciplinary Studies; Minor in General Business Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)