Chantal O'Connell, BSc, OLY

Experience

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  RTE

  Jan 2005 - May 2007

  Reporter, Researcher, Sub-Editor - TV Sport

  On-camera reporter for ‘OB Sports’ television show on Ireland's national broadcaster. Wrote short scripts, provided voice overs, conducted research and sub-edited packages. Worked to tight deadlines and developed strong research, writing and reporting skills.

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  Plunkett Communications

  Nov 2006 - Jan 2007

  Junior Account Executive
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  Swim Ireland

  Jun 2008 - Oct 2011

  Communications & Club Development Officer

  Held a dual role for the governing body of swimming in Ireland. I served as the organization’s first-ever communications officer as well as being one of three club development officers who supported the education, growth and governance needs of clubs across Ireland. As communications officer, I served as the website administrator, making daily updates to the site, monitoring traffic and providing fresh and relevant content. I started the organization’s first electronic newsletter which was issued to members on a monthly basis. I facilitated media queries and interviews on behalf of the organization, worked with external printers and designers to produce media programs, brochures and posters, and I held responsibility for managing a multimedia library. I was honored to serve as media liaison for the Irish International swim team at several major competitions, including world and European championships. As part of that role, I conducted media training for athletes, facilitated athlete interviews with media, issued daily press releases and audio clips, and served as media spokesperson. I also organized and hosted photo calls, special launches, and general media briefing events. As club development officer, I organized and conducted regular meetings with club board members, coaches and committee members and worked in partnership with my assigned clubs to best serve their needs and the needs of their athletes. I also processed new club startups and managed funding applications, dispute resolution and child welfare issues. I developed educational materials and managed registrations for swim teaching courses. And I delivered educational seminars throughout the country on the topics of team management best practices, public relations for clubs, and masters swimming. Show less

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  CGPR

  Nov 2011 - Jun 2013

  Worked with nationally known outdoor consumer brands to generate awareness and build brand recognition through media relations. Pitched national consumer and trade media across technology, fashion and outdoor retail industries. Wrote and executed press releases, pitches, memos and status reports on behalf of clients. Clients I represented include adidas Outdoor, Wilson Tennis and Birkis footwear. Managed media outreach and coordinated booth appointments for Outdoor Retailer annual trade shows. Helped develop new business pitches and presentations. Managed two interns and mentored one junior team member. Promoted to SAE after one year. Show less

  • Senior Account Executive

    Dec 2012 - Jun 2013

  • Account Executive

    Nov 2011 - Dec 2012
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  Largemouth Communications, Inc.

  Jun 2013 - Dec 2017

  Senior Account Executive

  Earned recognition as a reliable media relations “go-to” resource through my excellent storytelling skills. Was the media relations team lead for the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America, a high-profile annual charity event that raises money for children with life-threatening illnesses. On behalf of my clients, I secured national media placements in publications such as Delish Magazine, Parade, Time, and USA Today. Frequently pitched local (NC), regional, and national media through writing pitches, blog posts, media advisories, and media briefs, while promptly responding to media queries and requests. Developed editorial calendars for clients to proactively identify and maximize PR opportunities. Displayed leadership skills in overseeing and training account executives, account coordinators, and interns. Show less

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  Periscope

  Jan 2018 - Dec 2018

  Senior Account Manager (contract)

  As account manager, I led a cross-functional agency team in the execution of digital, media, print and social campaigns from concept to completion. Developed and executed BASF's strategic communications plan for their Living Acres biodiversity initiative. I was the ad agency’s sole person onsite at the client’s office (BASF). Provided media relations support to BASF's community relations team, emphasizing the company's STEM education and hunger relief efforts in the Triangle. Managed content development calendar, monitoring and reporting for Linked In, Facebook and Twitter platforms. Supported BASF’s internal communications team with providing content for internal publications, and assisting with logistics for internal employee video campaigns and photo shoots. I successfully navigated the expectations, processes and personalities of two distinct organizations – Periscope and BASF. Show less

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  North Carolina Education Lottery

  Mar 2019 - May 2022

  Advertising Manager

  Part of a dynamic brand management and communications team at the lottery. Strong project manager, responsible for driving internal and external advertising activities, and managing creative agency. Consistently recognized by colleagues for integrity and ability to collaborate. Was highly commended two years in a row for my work with educator and school groups across North Carolina, as part of the lottery's NC School Heroes campaign. Oversee creative and messaging for key sponsorships with draw station partners, ensuring it aligns with brand strategy and guidelines. Provide support to communication team as needed. Enthusiastic, flexible and highly dependable individual. Show less

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  Duke University Health System

  Jun 2022 - now

  Duke Raleigh & Duke Regional Hospitals

  • Senior Communications Manager

    Aug 2023 - now

  • Communications Manager, Duke Raleigh Hospital

    Jun 2022 - Aug 2023