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Robert D. Allen
2016 Mount Vernon Drive
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: 870.802.3992 • Cellular: 870.926.4013
E-mail: boballen@suddenlink.net
Objective:
To be allowed to utilize my experiences in corporate communications, external affairs, public affairs, public and/or
employee relations along with demonstrated communication, management, and leadership skills to:
Enhance profitability by directing external affairs activities to achieve
strategic objectives; maximize growth by effectively managing projects and
relationships with key external constituencies; and achieve organizational
development objectives by using proactive corporate communications program and
guiding distribution efforts to internal and external audiences for maximum
positive impact.
Qualifications:
Extensive experience as a media spokesman. More than 25 years experience in the
communications arena, which include department management and development for
large organizations; budgetary responsibility; exceptional media
accomplishments; strong writing and photography skills; product launches;
successful public relations and promotions campaigns; media and government
relations skills; proven program planning and implementation actions; ability
to interact with a variety of audiences. Developed strategic plans and
communication vehicles to achieve organizational development objectives,
particularly change management. Created public relations strategies that
improved public image ratings of employers. Significant experience and skills
in these areas:
• Media Relations • Governmental Affairs • Public Relations
• Internal Communications • Strategic Planning • Organizational Development
• Public Spokesperson • Public, Private & Non-Profit • Crisis Management
• Marketing Communications • Political Campaign Strategy • Media Background
Experience:
Director of Marketing (2001-2007)
Crowley’s Ridge Development Council, Inc., Jonesboro, AR
Managing Editor (2000-2001)
The Trumann Democrat, Trumann, AR
Director of Communications (1996-1999)
Life Plus International, Batesville, AR
Administrator/Executive Director (1994-1995)
Trumann Industrial Development, Trumann, AR
Director of Communications (1981-1986; 1991-1993)
Fairfield Bay, Inc., Fairfield Bay, AR
District Office Manager (1989-1990)
Bureau of the Census, Jonesboro, AR
Director of Communications (1986-1988)
Red Apple Club, Heber Springs, AR
Director of Corporate Communications (1981)
Fairfield Communities, Inc., Knoxville, TN
Education:
BS, Journalism, Arkansas State University
Achievements:
Conceptualized, Implemented and Maintained marketing and communications department for community action agency, working
closely with executive officer and management team.
Result: Realized enhanced media coverage of agency activities and events, and
established strong sense of pride among staff, board and management.
Designed, Implemented and Managed a total communications system for the company, opening the way for a richer flow
of information between the company and its clientele. Communications with the 250,000 plus members of a nutritional supplement company
was in need of extensive redesign.
Result: Membership grew to 500,000 over a three-year period and sales increased by over
150%.
Collaborated with Management and Persuaded entry into contractual agreement to use new technology in the publishing
industry to produce the community newsletter with minimal startup expense.
Result: Substantial cost savings of some 30% was realized, along with target audiences’ approval of modernized appearance, increased content and overall enhancements.
Planned and Implemented Public Relations and Communications Department for new resort. Worked closely with sales personnel to launch the new vacation
property ownership concept and promoted it in a three-state area. Worked with individual sales force to design and publish sales materials,
brochures and cold call letters for their efforts.
Result: Successful publicity campaign and continued promotional efforts aided in
producing some $500,000 in sales during six-month startup period.
Directed 6-Month Crisis Communication Campaign following natural disaster at major resort site and ensuing hardships created by
lack of water utility service. Conducted interviews with media, permanent residents and out-of-state property
owners. Concerns over property value losses and potential long-term impact on community
addressed.
Result: Economic impact to area was minimized and visitation levels maintained during
crisis period. Utilizing aggressive news slant with local, state and national press, positive
coverage was achieved and community enjoyed increased short- and long-term
economic boon.
Provided the Resort Sales Force with many and varied publications aimed at boosting resort property sales.
Result: Sales volume increases ranged from 15% to 25% in various departments, the
response of the sales group was to name me the recipient of the 1984 Sales
Award.
Conceptualized, Planned and Administrated the launch of a new promotional and publication effort for large
resort/retirement community.
Result: Cost savings of 25% for the company and a full time communications position with
the company.
Conceptualized and Organized the Corporate-wide Communications Department for a major resort/retirement community developer. Established a cohesive plan that brought the communities in sync in efforts to
publicize and promote the many sites under the corporate umbrella.
Result: A marked increase in corporate recognition nationwide was recorded, thereby
enhancing sales and marketing efforts.
Computer Skills:
PC & Macintosh platforms; proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, QuarkXPress; adept in use of
PhotoShop, Illustrator, SuperPaint, DrawIII, Acrobat and several minor programs
utilized in graphics production; SoundEdit16 and ProTools digital audio software; experienced with a wide variety
of Web browsers and e-mail software packages; Web savvy, designed, produced and
published agency Web site using Adobe GoLive software, QuarkXPress, and other
programs.