handouts linkedin

Create a Powerful and Distinctive LinkedIn Profile

A Bluesteps Executive Seminar

Presented by

Louise Kursmark, MRW, CPRW, JCTC, CEIP, CCM President • Best Impression Career Services, Inc.

www.yourbestimpression.com

Director • Resume Writing Academy www.resumewritingacademy.com

May 26, 2010

Bluesteps Executive Seminar: Creating LinkedIn Profiles © 2010 Louise Kursmark •

Why Use LinkedIn?

Harness the Power of the Network LINKEDIN MEMBER STATISTICS

Average Age 41 Household Income $109,703 Male: 64% Household Income $100k+ 53.5% Own Smartphone/PDA 34% College Grad/Post Grad 80.1% Business Decision Maker 49% EVP/SVP/VP 6.5% Have a Portfolio Value of $250k+ 24% Job Titles: • C-Level Executives 7.8% • EVP/SVP 6.5% • Senior Management 16.0% • Middle Management 18.0%


Top Tips

1. LinkedIn is the #1 professional networking site.

2. Networking sites are in a constant state of evolution.

3. LinkedIn is not just for job seekers.

4. A LinkedIn Profile is not a resume.

5. LinkedIn Profiles must be rich with keywords.

6. Highlight information beyond the resume.

7. Use the appropriate voice and tone.

8. Use the LinkedIn profile to enhance and extend the power of your Bluesteps profile.


The “Snapshot”


Creating the “Snapshot”

Name Photo Headline Location and Industry Twitter or Facebook Link Activity Groups Current, Past, Education Recommendations Connections Websites Twitter Public Profile


Creating the Profile: Details and Examples

HEADLINE (120-‐character limit): Define “who” you are General Guidelines:

• Highlight the most valuable information about yourself – job titles, industries, product lines, companies, etc.

• Include information that will give yourself a truly competitive advantage. Example 1: Martin Wells (113 characters) Martin’s “title” followed by keywords showcasing industry expertise and high-‐profile experience.

Martin Wells VP – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer Dotcom Ventures • Broadcast & News Media • U.S. Executive Branches Example 2: Sarah Tobin (118 characters) Sarah’s “title” followed by industry keywords and branding statement. Note initials of highly relevant certification after her name.

Sarah Tobin, CNPDP Product Development Leader – Technology & Telecom / CPG / Business Services Gaining competitive edge through innovation


SUMMARY (2000-‐character limit): Create a rich profile that strategically positions you and makes full use of the

2000-‐character limit General Guidelines:

• Write to be read on screen – short paragraphs, concise bullet points, ample white space.

• Tell career stories and/or showcase specific accomplishments, project highlights, honors and awards, and other distinctive and impressive information.

• Start with summary section from the resume and paint a more complete picture.

Example 1: Martin Wells (1730 characters) – written in 1st person/resume style – gives great overview of his career (paragraphs) and highlights his most notable experience (bullets) front and center. Summary COMMUNICATIONS, PUBLIC RELATIONS & INVESTOR RELATIONS EXECUTIVE Nationally prominent Communications Executive who has worked in some of the most powerful places in the world, from venture capital suites to corporate boardrooms to the West Wing of The White House. Most notable positions: -- The White House: Assistant Press Secretary to President George H.W. Bush -- Newsweek: VP/Director of Corporate Communications -- EPAY: SVP & Chief of Corporate Communications -- WebTools (acquired by Yahoo): VP/Director of Corporate Communications -- Simon & Schuster: Global Publicity & Marketing Strategist -- Michael Jordan: Executive Brand Consultant Expert in the creative ideation, development and precise tactical execution of earned media strategies and campaigns throughout the US and international markets. A trusted advisor and confidante to top business, industry and government leaders with equally strong performance in employee development and mentoring. The “go-to” business leader in every organization. Corporate Spokesperson to broadcast and print media outlets worldwide, including television networks and all major news shows (CNN, MSNBC, CSPAN, Fox News). Quoted in every major national newspaper in the US and the nation’s leading news magazines (Time, Newsweek, US News & World Report) and business publications (Fortune, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal). Traveled the globe, conducted business in the Kremlin and #10 Downing Street and worked in 80+ countries on 5 continents. Board of Directors and Advisory Board Member for industry associations and nonprofit foundation. Leveraged communication and leadership skills to elevate awareness and raise millions of dollars for communication scholarships and medical research.


Example 2: Sarah Tobin (1995 characters) – written in 1st person using “I” – gives great overview of career (paragraphs) and highlights most notable accomplishments (bullets) front and center; keywords listed at end; branding statement included in first paragraph

Summary I am a Product Development leader with a passion for delivering “what’s next” and improving “what’s now” for companies that value innovation as a market advantage. In a fast-track career through product development roles in diverse industries, I have had a measurable impact on revenue, market penetration, and product innovation. An overview of my career includes these highlights: * SolutionTech: Built a world-class product development organization for this global business outsourcing provider with clients in 52 countries on 4 continents.

* XYZ Retail Networks: Headed product development teams in repeated launches of new media products for some the world’s largest retailers (Wal-Mart, Target, Costo, Best Buy). * Verizon Broadband Division: Led innovations including orchestrating the development, testing and market launch of the nation’s first residential broadband service and the company’s first multi-ISP Internet product.

Primarily focused on technology innovation, I excel at both the art and the science of product development. Specifically, my expertise includes research and development (R&D), pipeline development, market-validity testing, co-development partnerships, technology transfers, technology joint ventures, customer presentations, and key account relationship management (in partnership with sales, marketing, and business development teams). I am highly experienced in managing product teams and driving adoption of product development best practices that have been recognized as not only the standard within the company, but as the industry standard and model.

I thrive on challenge and am known as an innovator, change driver, and product evangelist. My expertise helps companies deliver on the promise of their ideas, capture new customers, expand into new markets, and outpace/outperform the competition.

* Next-Generation Product Development * Technology Commercialization * Team Leadership * Continuous Process Improvement * Six Sigma * ScrumMaster * CNPDP – PDMA


SPECIALTIES (500-‐character limitation): Highlight keywords and other distinguishing material about yourself, taking full advantage of the 500 characters allowed. Option #1: Pack with keywords Example 1: Martin Wells (497 characters)

Corporate Communications, Business Communications, Strategic Communications, Crisis Communications, Public Relations, Media Relations, Investor Relations, Government Affairs, Global Marketing & Business Development, Venture Capital & Private Equity Road Shows & Presentations, Broadcast Production, Event Management, Media Training, Mergers & Acquisitions, JVs, Partnerships, Executive & Dignitary Protocol, B2B Sales, B2C Sales, Public Speaking, Project Management, Program Management, Leadership

Option #2: Pack with achievements, projects, honors & awards, and additional highlights Example 2: Sarah Tobin (476 characters)

Performance Highlights

* Twice built agile product development organizations from the ground up, keeping companies on the cutting edge.

* Thwarted competitive threat at XYZ Retail Networks by launching rapid-development process that speeded time-to-market by 60%.

* Delivered on high-stakes public promise made by Verizon CEO, creating multi-access Internet product in 9 months.

* Built the world’s first residential broadband service from zero to $6M annual revenue in 18 months.


EXPERIENCE (1988-‐character limit for EACH position): Write keyword-‐rich, accomplishment-‐focused job descriptions that clearly communicate roles, responsibilities, and successes. General guidelines:

• Include ALL/MOST positions and companies – these are what recruiters look for, but be careful about the “age factor” just as you when writing your resume.

• You can consolidate some of the older positions into one job block as you might do on a resume (as shown in example #1 that follows).

• Write in paragraphs and/or bullet points – paragraphs to tell stories mostly; bullets to highlight projects, assignments, or individual achievements.

• Automatic bullet formatting is not available, so use asterisks, periods, dashes or whatever symbol you prefer.

• Consider including a short company description to help recruiters and prospective employers understand the scope of your client’s experience.

• Include key accomplishments and activities.

• Fill job descriptions with substantive content, achievements, project highlights, and more, and include quantifiable results whenever possible as numbers always capture attention.

• Don’t bother using html or hyperlinks as they will NOT work in the text of LinkedIn profiles.

Example 1: Martin Wells (largest block below has 1643 characters)

Experience SVP – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Moneydata, Inc. (NASDAQ: MDAT) #1 Internet aggregator of financial rate data July 2004 – Present (5 years 11 months) Key player in the successful turnaround, revitalization and return to profitability of .com venture, resulting in nearly 5X revenue growth and more than 6X increase in share price. Provide expert leadership for the entire corporate communications function and organization supporting company operations, an aggressive acquisition program, organic growth, market positioning and customer outreach. Lead a team of 35 in PR, marketing, IR, HR, market research/analysis, product development, competitive intelligence, facilities and corporate administration. Represent CEO at major corporate events worldwide including 2010 Chinese market launch. -- Contributed to unprecedented growth from $39.2M to $166.9M in revenues and 3.5M to 8.7M unique monthly visitors. -- Built impressive IR function. Expanded coverage from 2 to 25 analysts as share price grew from $8 to peak price of $49. -- Crafted and executed corporate communications for successful secondary offering of 2.3M shares in 2006 that raised $113M. -- Secured 1500+ media interviews, 10,800 media mentions and expert quotes in 4200+ stories in 2009 with no external PR agency. Stories appeared on CNN, Fox News, AP, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, Boston Herald, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Money, Fortune and hundreds of other media outlets. -- Guided messaging and positioning for company’s profitable $580M sale to VC firm in 2009.


7 visible recommendations for this position

Executive PR, Media & Communications Consultant at Wells PR & Communications Public Relations and Communications industry 2002 – 2004 (2 years) Senior Advisor to President Bush, Michael Jordan and top executives at Newsweek, Simon & Schuster, Penguin Publishing and Eli Broad Foundation on complex and sensitive communications, PR, IR and media relations affairs. Concurrently, provided expert business and communications leadership, media training, investor relations training and PR guidance to founders and principals of start-up and early-stage technology ventures. -- Directed PR, advance work and rapid-response media teams for Presidential appearances and events (Memorial Service for Space Shuttle Astronauts, September 11th Tour & Memorial Service, UN General Assembly, National Economic Forum, Memorial Day Ceremonies at Normandy, Summit Meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin). -- Coordinated complex logistics, advance work and on-site Presidential media events with up to 500 interviews. Planned and facilitated live Presidential addresses in the US, France, El Salvador, China and Slovenia. -- Appointed Media Director for the G8 Summit of Industrial Nations, managing an 80-person staff and thousands of media. -- Scheduled segments, selected and interviewed subject-matter experts, and produced 6 hour-long public affairs features for US News & World Report that aired in prime time on CNBC. -- Advised Michael Jordan on the use of his name/image/brand in nationwide communications and advertising campaigns. -- Led inventor of speech-to-text engine technology in raising $12M in VC funding to launch new enterprise. 9 visible recommendations for this position

SVP – Chief of Corporate Communications at EPay Solutions (NASDAQ: EPAY) Privately Held; Online Media industry 1999 – 2002 (3 years) Aggressively recruited to build and direct the entire communications platform for early-stage company experiencing triple-digit growth following IPO. Planned and executed all business and corporate communications, investor relations, PR, marcom, branding, multimedia advertising, legislative and consumer affairs, and strategic partnering that supported expansion from 415 to 1050 clients. Conceived new corporate image, crafted brand identity and created value proposition. -- Orchestrated $5M annual ad campaign that captured significant media coverage: 4 front-page features in The Wall Street Journal and stories in The New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times, Chicago Tribune and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. In total, 64 newspaper and magazine articles, 164 TV features, 53 radio broadcast stories and 140 website mentions. -- Authored corporate message and led investor and analyst presentations that raised $86M for IPO. -- Partnered with company’s largest client (IRS) to co-brand marketing materials and achieve IRS transaction goals. -- Collaborated with AMEX and MasterCard to design and execute consumer incentive programs. -- Leveraged knowledge of legislative processes to position OPAY as top-of-mind on issues related to e-commerce security. 11 visible recommendations for this position

VP – Director of Corporate Communications at WebTools.com (NASDAQ: WEBT) Internet industry 1998 – 1999 (1 year) Member of 8-person executive team that led company following successful IPO and record-setting $4.7B acquisition by Yahoo. Leadership responsibility included corporate communications, media affairs, government relations, IR, executive-level contributions to strategic planning and business development, and a diversity of administrative and facilities management functions.


-- Contributed to company’s rapid equity growth, from $18 to $117/share over 1-year period, through successes in acquiring analyst coverage, developing IR messages and linking IR activities to corporate communications goals. -- Halted plummeting stock values related to complex Internet privacy issues and crafted rapid response to FTC inquiries. -- Drove a remarkably dynamic and creative communications effort to support explosive post-IPO growth. Prioritized and strategically timed release of messages of new products, technologies and partnerships to optimize market response. 6 visible recommendations for this position

VP – Director of Corporate Communications at Newsweek Magazine Online Media industry 1994 – 1998 (4 years) Promoted from key regional position as Director of Corporate Communications for one year to top-ranking executive position as VP – Director of Corporate Communications leading corporate communications, PR and media affairs for world-class publishing organization, publisher and owner. Conceived and directed national PR campaigns, media tours, product launches and other initiatives to promote editorial content across all major media distribution channels. Led 15-person in-house team, multimillion-dollar budget and 3rd party ad agency network. -- Restored collaboration between corporate communications, marketing, advertising, PR and special media to maximize visibility, customer reach and sales of all publishing assets. Contributed to double-digit sales growth over 4 years. -- Orchestrated PR launch of Fast Company, honored as “Magazine Launch of the Year” by Advertising Age and Ad Week. Expanded brand to include additional print and online assets and a series of cross-branding initiatives. -- Innovated and led projects to expand market reach and visibility, capture new subscribers, penetrate new revenue channels and transition to an engaged corporate culture and workplace. Linked with wire services, booked editors on major network shows (60 Minutes, Nightline, 20/20, Today, GMA) and created and sold co-productions. No recommendations for this position

Corporate VP – CEO of DC Business Unit at Prescient Communications Public Relations and Communications industry 1991 – 1993 (2 years) Built new office from $750K to $1.7+ million in revenues in just 2 years. Given full strategic planning and development, creative, marketing, sales, CRM, administrative, HR and P&L responsibility for launching, staffing and directing new DC venture. -- Positioned new enterprise as #1 revenue producer in the company. Recruited, mentored and led dynamic business team. -- Targeted, pitched and closed $1M+ in new contracts with major pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, health-care associations and media outlets (American Cancer Society, AstraZeneca, US News & World Report). -- Directed key PR and legislative affairs for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, consortium of 15 organizations. Won Tele Award for 20-minute documentary aired on 150 cable stations and syndicated on national TV affiliates. -- Created concept of extended broadcast format – still in use today – for media spots sponsored by the Advertising Council. 8 visible recommendations for this position

Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives at The White House – West Wing Non-Profit Industry 1987 – 1991 (4 years)


Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives (1990 to 1991) Assistant Press Secretary to the President (1988 to 1991) Traveling Press Secretary to the Vice President (1987 to 1989) NOTE: 3 jobs combined within 1 job description Promoted through increasingly responsible positions in the West Wing of The White House. Partnered with Press Secretary to develop and execute critical PR strategies and campaigns for the President and Vice President. Coordinated daily press affairs with White House Press Corps for briefings, photos, Rose Garden events and Cabinet and Oval Office meetings. -- Collaborated with high-level personnel in the US State Department, Justice Department, Defense Department and National Security Council to craft consistent messages for complex, sensitive and crisis communications. -- Coordinated PR, media and events for President’s Thousand Points of Life Office and Council on Physical Fitness. -- Coordinated logistics, advance and pre- and post-event messaging for President’s visit to US troops in Saudi Arabia. -- Built television studio providing live satellite feeds to broadcast Presidential messages, videos and PSAs. No recommendations for this position

Personal Aide to Attorney General John Doe at US Department of Justice Government Administration industry 1986 – 1987 (1 year) Represented Attorney General Doe at high-profile events and traveled with him in the US and abroad. Worked collaboratively with local and national press, the US Secret Service, dignitaries and the general public. No recommendations for this position

Confidential Assistant to Secretary Jane Smith at US Department of Commerce Government Administration industry 1985 – 1986 (1 year) Directed advance work, pre-event briefings and appearances. Accompanied Secretary on 4 special trade commissions to foster development in key technology and industrial markets. No recommendations for this position

Lead Advance Representative at Office of the Vice President of the United States Public Relations and Communications industry 1981 – 1985 (4 years) Transitioned part-time volunteer effort into full-time professional position in the Office of the Vice President. Coordinated political and logistical advance work with the Secret Service and managed local PR/media. Re-recruited to assist with affairs for Vice President George W. Bush’s Presidential Campaign. Traveled on Air Force II. No recommendations for this position


Example 2: Sarah Tobin Director, Next-Generation Product Development at SolutionTech Global business outsourcing provider of business-support solutions May 2009 – Present (1 year) Brought on board to create a world-class product development organization. Hit the ground running in entirely new industry and quickly ramped up product innovation while establishing the structure, processes, and metrics essential for a top-quality product-development function. Won Internet Telephony 2009 “Product of the Year” award. 4 recommendations for this position

Director, Product Development at XYZ Retail Networks World’s leading retail media company March 2006 – May 2009 (3 years 2 months) Strengthened product-development capability, melding creativity with process/structure to harness innovation and ensure sustainable success. Recruited to company that was on the leading edge of a new advertising space (captive retail networks) but needed discipline, structure, and repeatability in its product development department. Provided expert leadership to build the idea pipeline, justify development, and quickly bring ideas from concept to customer. Delivered multiple new products ahead of schedule and under budget and instilled innovation and process excellence as a way of life. Earned XYZ’s “Outstanding Achievement Award.” 5 recommendations for this position

Manager, New Product Development, Advanced Broadband Services at Verizon Leading American broadband and telecommunications company March 2002 – March 2006 (3 years) Designed and executed strategic roadmap for next-generation products. Improved and accelerated product-development process; boosted productivity 30%; initiated and managed relationships with co-development partners. Developed product strategy and business plans for entry into digital music, online gaming, and e-health. 2 recommendations for this position

Manager, Product Development, Open Access Project at Verizon June 2001 – March 2002 (9 months) Delivered on “impossible” commitment made by Verizon CEO to deploy a multiple-ISP Internet product by year-end—reversing the company’s longstanding policy of single-provider access. Appointed to the challenge following public announcement, rapidly assembled a cross-functional team, recruited new team, and led vigorous initiative that delivered results 2 months ahead of schedule. 2 recommendations for this position

Product Manager, Verizon@Home at Verizon September 1999 – June 2001 (1 year 9 months) Launched the nation’s first broadband residential service, Verizon@Home, and grew to 150,000 subscribers and $6M annual revenue within 18 months. Spearheaded aggressive development, introducing25 new product features in 18 months. Cut $5M from development costs by rationalizing features to meet customer expectations. Achieved 90+% customer satisfaction rating for 7 consecutive quarters.


No recommendations for this position

Teleconferencing Manager at AP Media Services June 1997 – September 1999 Managed high-volume, high-profile calls involving some of the world’s leading business, financial, and political leaders. Became recognized for innovative problem-solving skills and was subsequently recruited by a key client (Verizon) to lead a groundbreaking product initiative. No recommendations for this position

EDUCATION: Include all educational credentials, degrees, training programs, seminars, academic honors and awards, activities, and other education-‐related qualifications and accomplishments. Example 1: Martin Wells American University, Washington, DC B.A. – Communications

Example 2: Sarah Tobin California State University BS Finance 1995–1999 ScrumMaster Certification 2009 Villanova University Six Sigma Green Belt 2008 Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) Certified New Product Development Professional 2005


GROUPS AND ASSOCIATIONS: Demonstrate professional, industry, and personal involvement, visibility, and contribution. Example 1: Martin Wells

Director – American Marketing Association Director – Advisory Board – Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication at Franklin Pierce College Director – Magical Music for Life Pediatric Foundation Member – Public Relations Society of America Member – International Association of Business Communicators Member – National Press Club of Washington DC

• White House Advance Associates is visible on your profile.

• White House Press Office Alumni is visible on your profile.

• President George H.W. Bush Administration Appointees and Volunteers is visible on your profile.

Example 2: Sarah Tobin Member – Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) Member – Bay Area Bicycle Club

HONORS AND AWARDS: Spotlight distinguishing recognition. Example 1: Martin Wells Corporate Spokesperson to broadcast and print media outlets worldwide, including television networks and all major news shows (CNN, MSNBC, CSPAN, Fox News). Quoted in every major national newspaper in the US. Example 2: Sarah Tobin “Product of the Year” – Internet Telephony, 2009 “Outstanding Achievement Award” – XYZ Retail Networks, 2006

INTERESTS


Recommended Resources

Books and DVDs

• BOOK: “I’m On LinkedIn: Now What?” by Jason Alba http://imonlinkedinnowwhat.com/

• DVD: “LinkedIn for Job Seekers” by Jason Alba www.linkedinforjobseekers.com

• BOOK: “The Twitter Job Search Guide: Find a Job and Advance Your Career in Just 15 Minutes A Day” by Susan Britton Whitcomb, Chandlee Bryan & Deb Dib www.amazon.com

Interesting Statistics

• Collection of Social Network Stats for 2010 http://www.web-‐strategist.com/blog/2010/01/19/a-‐collection-‐of-‐social-‐network-‐stats-‐for-‐2010/

• LinkedIn Blog http://blog.linkedin.com/2009/10/14/linkedin-‐50-‐million-‐professionals-‐worldwide/

• LinkedIn Member Stats http://www.linkedstrategies.com/blog/linkedin-‐stats-‐why-‐you-‐must-‐master-‐linkedin.htm


MARTIN S. WELLS 908-247-1110 [email protected] 283 West Elm Circle, Far Hills, NJ 09731

HIGH-PROFILE COMMUNICATIONS, PUBLIC RELATIONS & INVESTOR RELATIONS EXECUTIVE

Dotcom Ventures • News Media & Broadcast Companies • United States Executive Branches

Nationally prominent Communications Executive who has worked in some of the most powerful places in the world, from venture capital suites to corporate boardrooms to the West Wing of The White House. Most notable positions:

The White House: Assistant Press Secretary to President George H.W. Bush Newsweek: VP/Director of Corporate Communications EPAY: SVP & Chief of Corporate Communications WebTools (acquired by Yahoo): VP/Director of Corporate Communications Michael Jordan: Executive Brand Consultant

Expert in the creative ideation, development and precise tactical execution of earned media strategies and campaigns throughout the US and international markets. A trusted advisor and confidante to top business, industry and government leaders with equally strong performance in employee development and mentoring. The “go-to” business leader in every organization.

Corporate Spokesperson to broadcast and print media outlets worldwide, including television networks and all major news shows. Quoted in every major national newspaper in the US.

Strategic & Crisis Communications

Corporate & Business Communications

Global Marketing & Business Development

Road Show, VC & Private Equity Presentations

Broadcast Production & Event Management

Media Training: Corporate & Government

Mergers, Acquisitions, JVs & Partnerships

Executive & Dignitary Protocol

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

MONEYDATA, INC. (NASDAQ: MDAT), New York, NY 2004 to Present #1 Internet aggregator of financial rate data with 9 major financial websites and 80+ online distribution partners in co-branded sites

Senior Vice President – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

Key player in the successful turnaround, revitalization and return to profitability of .com venture, resulting in substantial increase in share price. Provide expert leadership for the entire corporate communications function and organization supporting company operations, an aggressive acquisition program, organic growth, market positioning and customer outreach. Lead a team of 35 in PR, marketing, IR, HR, market research/analysis, product development, competitive intelligence, facilities and corporate administration. Represent CEO at major corporate events.

Contributed to unprecedented growth from $39.2M to $166.9M in revenues. Built impressive IR function. Expanded coverage from 2 to 25 analysts as share price grew from $8 to peak price of $49. Crafted and executed corporate communications for secondary offering of 2.3M shares in 2006 that raised $113M. Secured 1500 interviews, 10,800 media mentions and expert quotes in 4200+ stories in 2009 with no external PR agency. Guided messaging and positioning for company’s profitable $580M sale to VC firm in 2009.

EXECUTIVE PR, MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT 2002 to 2004

Senior Advisor to President Bush, Michael Jordan and top executives at Newsweek and Simon & Schuster on complex and sensitive communications, PR, IR and media relations affairs. Also provided expert communications leadership, media training, investor relations training and PR guidance to start-up and early-stage technology ventures.

Directed PR, advance work and rapid-response media teams for Presidential appearances and events. Coordinated complex logistics, advance work and on-site Presidential media events with up to 500 interviews. Produced 6 hour-long public affairs features for Newsweek that aired in prime time on CNN. Advised Michael Jordan on the use of his name/image/brand in nationwide communications and advertising campaigns.

EPAY SOLUTIONS (NASDAQ: EPAY), Newark, NJ 1999 to 2002 Leading provider of e-payment solutions for 1000+ government entities in all 50 states & IRS; annual volume of 1M+ transactions totaling $1.2B

Senior Vice President – Chief of Corporate Communications

Aggressively recruited to build and direct entire communications platform for early-stage company experiencing triple-digit growth following IPO. Directed all business and corporate communications, investor relations, PR, marcom, branding, multimedia advertising, and legislative and consumer affairs that supported expansion from 415 to 1050 clients.

Led investor and analyst presentations that raised $86M for IPO. Orchestrated $5M annual ad campaign that captured front-page features in The Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Leveraged knowledge of legislative processes to position EPAY as top-of-mind on issues related to e-commerce security.


MARTIN S. WELLS 908-247-1110 [email protected]

WEBTOOLS.COM (NASDAQ: WEBT), New York, NY 1998 to 1999 World’s largest Internet community and definitive market leader in personal website publishing tools for websites

Vice President – Director of Corporate Communications

Member of 8-person executive team that led company following successful IPO and $4.7B acquisition by Yahoo. Leadership responsibility included corporate communications, media affairs, government relations, IR and executive-level contributions to strategic planning and business development.

Contributed to company’s rapid equity growth, from $18 to $117/share over 1-year period, through successes in acquiring analyst coverage, developing IR messages and linking IR activities to corporate communications goals.

Drove a remarkably dynamic and creative communications effort to support explosive post-IPO growth.

NEWSWEEK – Division of The Washington Post, Washington, DC & New York, NY 1994 to 1998 Second-largest weekly news magazine; 4 English-language editions and 12 global editions

Vice President – Director of Corporate Communications (1995 to 1998) Director – Corporate Communications (1994 to 1995)

Promoted from key regional position to top-ranking executive leading corporate communications, PR and media affairs for world-class publishing organization. Conceived and directed national PR campaigns, media tours, product launches and other initiatives to promote editorial content across all major media distribution channels. Led 15-person in-house team, multimillion-dollar budget and 3rd party ad agency network.

Restored collaboration between corporate communications, marketing, advertising, PR and special media to maximize visibility, customer reach and sales of all publishing assets. Contributed to double-digit sales growth over 4 years.

Orchestrated PR launch of Internet News, honored as “Magazine Launch of the Year” by Advertising Age and Ad Week.

PRESCIENT COMMUNICATIONS, New York, NY 1991 to 1993 Boutique PR firm headquartered in Chicago

Corporate Vice President – CEO of New York Business Unit

Built new office from $750K to $1.7+ million in revenues in just 2 years. Given full strategic planning and development, creative, marketing, sales, CRM, administrative, HR and P&L responsibility for launching, staffing and directing new NYC venture.

Positioned new enterprise as #1 revenue producer in the company. Recruited, mentored and led dynamic business team. Targeted, pitched and closed $1M+ in new contracts. Created concept of extended broadcast format – still in use today – for media spots sponsored by the Advertising Council.

THE WHITE HOUSE, Washington, DC 1987 to 1991

Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives (1990 to 1991) Assistant Press Secretary to the President (1988 to 1991) Traveling Press Secretary to the Vice President (1987 to 1989)

Promoted through increasingly responsible positions in the West Wing of The White House. Partnered with Press Secretary to develop and execute critical PR strategies and campaigns for the President and Vice President.

PRIOR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 1986 to 1987

Personal Aide to Attorney General John Doe, US Department of Justice Confidential Assistant to Secretary Jane Smith, US Department of Commerce Lead Advance Representative, Office of the Vice President

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES, AFFILIATIONS & EDUCATION

Director American Marketing Association Director Advisory Board – Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication – Franklin Pierce College Director March of Dimes Foundation Member Public Relations Society of America Member International Association of Business Communicators Member National Press Club of Washington DC B.A. Communications American University, Washington, DC


Martin Wells’ Complete LinkedIn Profile Martin Wells VP – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer Dotcom Ventures • Broadcast & News Media • U.S. Executive Branches New York City Area • Online Media Industry Current • Senor Vice President – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at

Moneydata, Inc. Past • Executive PR, Media & Communications Consultant at Wells PR &

Communications • Senior Vice President – Chief of Corporate Communications at EPAY

Solutions • Vice President – Director of Corporate Communications at WebTools.com • Vice President – Director of Corporate Communications at Newsweek • Corporate Vice President – CEO of New York Business Unit at Prescient

Communications • Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives at The White House • Personal Aide to Attorney General John Doe at US Department of Justice * Personal Aide to Secretary Jane Smith at US Department of Commerce • Legal Advance Representative at Office of the Vice President of the United

States Education American University, Washington, DC B.A. – Communications Recommendations 41 people have recommended Martin Connections 500+ connections Websites • Moneydata.com • American Marketing Association Board of Directors • Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication, Franklin Pierce College Twitter • MartinWells Public Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/martinwells Summary COMMUNICATIONS, PUBLIC RELATIONS & INVESTOR RELATIONS EXECUTIVE Nationally prominent Communications Executive who has worked in some of the most powerful places in the world, from venture capital suites to corporate boardrooms to the West Wing of The White House. Most notable positions:


-- The White House: Assistant Press Secretary to President George H.W. Bush -- Newsweek: VP/Director of Corporate Communications -- EPAY: SVP & Chief of Corporate Communications -- WebTools (acquired by Yahoo): VP/Director of Corporate Communications -- Simon & Schuster: Global Publicity & Marketing Strategist -- Michael Jordan: Executive Brand Consultant Expert in the creative ideation, development and precise tactical execution of earned media strategies and campaigns throughout the US and international markets. A trusted advisor and confidante to top business, industry and government leaders with equally strong performance in employee development and mentoring. The “go-to” business leader in every organization. Corporate Spokesperson to broadcast and print media outlets worldwide, including television networks and all major news shows (CNN, MSNBC, CSPAN, Fox News). Quoted in every major national newspaper in the US and the nation’s leading news magazines (Time, Newsweek, US News & World Report) and business publications (Fortune, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal). Traveled the globe, conducted business in the Kremlin and #10 Downing Street and worked in 80+ countries on 5 continents. Board of Directors and Advisory Board Member for industry associations and nonprofit foundation. Leveraged communication and leadership skills to elevate awareness and raise millions of dollars for communication scholarships and medical research. Specialties Corporate Communications, Business Communications, Strategic Communications, Crisis Communications, Public Relations, Media Relations, Investor Relations, Government Affairs, Global Marketing & Business Development, Venture Capital & Private Equity Road Shows & Presentations, Broadcast Production, Event Management, Media Training, Mergers & Acquisitions, JVs, Partnerships, Executive & Dignitary Protocol, B2B Sales, B2C Sales, Public Speaking, Project Management, Program Management, Leadership Experience SVP – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Moneydata, Inc. (NASDAQ: MDAT) #1 Internet aggregator of financial rate data July 2004 – Present (5 years 11 months) Key player in the successful turnaround, revitalization and return to profitability of .com venture, resulting in nearly 5X revenue growth and more than 6X increase in share price. Provide expert leadership for the entire corporate communications function and organization supporting company operations, an aggressive acquisition program, organic growth, market positioning and customer outreach. Lead a team of 35 in PR, marketing, IR, HR, market research/analysis, product development, competitive intelligence, facilities and corporate administration. Represent CEO at major corporate events worldwide including 2010 Chinese market launch. -- Contributed to unprecedented growth from $39.2M to $166.9M in revenues and 3.5M to 8.7M unique monthly visitors. -- Built impressive IR function. Expanded coverage from 2 to 25 analysts as share price grew from $8 to peak price of $49. -- Crafted and executed corporate communications for successful secondary offering of 2.3M shares in 2006 that raised $113M. -- Secured 1500+ media interviews, 10,800 media mentions and expert quotes in 4200+ stories in 2009 with no external PR agency. Stories appeared on CNN, Fox News, AP, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, Boston Herald, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Money, Fortune and hundreds of other media outlets. -- Guided messaging and positioning for company’s profitable $580M sale to VC firm in 2009. 7 visible recommendations for this position

Executive PR, Media & Communications Consultant at Wells PR & Communications Public Relations and Communications industry 2002 – 2004 (2 years)


Senior Advisor to President Bush, Michael Jordan and top executives at Newsweek, Simon & Schuster, Penguin Publishing and Eli Broad Foundation on complex and sensitive communications, PR, IR and media relations affairs. Concurrently, provided expert business and communications leadership, media training, investor relations training and PR guidance to founders and principals of start-up and early-stage technology ventures. -- Directed PR, advance work and rapid-response media teams for Presidential appearances and events (Memorial Service for Space Shuttle Astronauts, September 11th Tour & Memorial Service, UN General Assembly, National Economic Forum, Memorial Day Ceremonies at Normandy, Summit Meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin). -- Coordinated complex logistics, advance work and on-site Presidential media events with up to 500 interviews. Planned and facilitated live Presidential addresses in the US, France, El Salvador, China and Slovenia. -- Appointed Media Director for the G8 Summit of Industrial Nations, managing an 80-person staff and thousands of media. -- Scheduled segments, selected and interviewed subject-matter experts, and produced 6 hour-long public affairs features for US News & World Report that aired in prime time on CNBC. -- Advised Michael Jordan on the use of his name/image/brand in nationwide communications and advertising campaigns. -- Led inventor of speech-to-text engine technology in raising $12M in VC funding to launch new enterprise. 9 visible recommendations for this position

SVP – Chief of Corporate Communications at EPay Solutions (NASDAQ: EPAY) Privately Held; Online Media industry 1999 – 2002 (3 years) Aggressively recruited to build and direct the entire communications platform for early-stage company experiencing triple-digit growth following IPO. Planned and executed all business and corporate communications, investor relations, PR, marcom, branding, multimedia advertising, legislative and consumer affairs, and strategic partnering that supported expansion from 415 to 1050 clients. Conceived new corporate image, crafted brand identity and created value proposition. -- Orchestrated $5M annual ad campaign that captured significant media coverage: 4 front-page features in The Wall Street Journal and stories in The New York Times, Washington Post, LA Times, Chicago Tribune and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. In total, 64 newspaper and magazine articles, 164 TV features, 53 radio broadcast stories and 140 website mentions. -- Authored corporate message and led investor and analyst presentations that raised $86M for IPO. -- Partnered with company’s largest client (IRS) to co-brand marketing materials and achieve IRS transaction goals. -- Collaborated with AMEX and MasterCard to design and execute consumer incentive programs. -- Leveraged knowledge of legislative processes to position OPAY as top-of-mind on issues related to e-commerce security. 11 visible recommendations for this position

VP – Director of Corporate Communications at WebTools.com (NASDAQ: WEBT) Internet industry 1998 – 1999 (1 year) Member of 8-person executive team that led company following successful IPO and record-setting $4.7B acquisition by Yahoo. Leadership responsibility included corporate communications, media affairs, government relations, IR, executive-level contributions to strategic planning and business development, and a diversity of administrative and facilities management functions. -- Contributed to company’s rapid equity growth, from $18 to $117/share over 1-year period, through successes in acquiring analyst coverage, developing IR messages and linking IR activities to corporate communications goals. -- Halted plummeting stock values related to complex Internet privacy issues and crafted rapid response to FTC inquiries. -- Drove a remarkably dynamic and creative communications effort to support explosive post-IPO growth. Prioritized and strategically timed release of messages of new products, technologies and partnerships to optimize market response.


6 visible recommendations for this position

VP – Director of Corporate Communications at Newsweek Magazine Online Media industry 1994 – 1998 (4 years) Promoted from key regional position as Director of Corporate Communications for one year to top-ranking executive position as VP – Director of Corporate Communications leading corporate communications, PR and media affairs for world-class publishing organization, publisher and owner. Conceived and directed national PR campaigns, media tours, product launches and other initiatives to promote editorial content across all major media distribution channels. Led 15-person in-house team, multimillion-dollar budget and 3rd party ad agency network. -- Restored collaboration between corporate communications, marketing, advertising, PR and special media to maximize visibility, customer reach and sales of all publishing assets. Contributed to double-digit sales growth over 4 years. -- Orchestrated PR launch of Fast Company, honored as “Magazine Launch of the Year” by Advertising Age and Ad Week. Expanded brand to include additional print and online assets and a series of cross-branding initiatives. -- Innovated and led projects to expand market reach and visibility, capture new subscribers, penetrate new revenue channels and transition to an engaged corporate culture and workplace. Linked with wire services, booked editors on major network shows (60 Minutes, Nightline, 20/20, Today, GMA) and created and sold co-productions. No recommendations for this position

Corporate VP – CEO of DC Business Unit at Prescient Communications Public Relations and Communications industry 1991 – 1993 (2 years) Built new office from $750K to $1.7+ million in revenues in just 2 years. Given full strategic planning and development, creative, marketing, sales, CRM, administrative, HR and P&L responsibility for launching, staffing and directing new DC venture. -- Positioned new enterprise as #1 revenue producer in the company. Recruited, mentored and led dynamic business team. -- Targeted, pitched and closed $1M+ in new contracts with major pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, health-care associations and media outlets (American Cancer Society, AstraZeneca, US News & World Report). -- Directed key PR and legislative affairs for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, consortium of 15 organizations. Won Tele Award for 20-minute documentary aired on 150 cable stations and syndicated on national TV affiliates. -- Created concept of extended broadcast format – still in use today – for media spots sponsored by the Advertising Council. 8 visible recommendations for this position

Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives at The White House – West Wing Non-Profit Industry 1987 – 1991 (4 years) Director – Office of Public Events & Initiatives (1990 to 1991) Assistant Press Secretary to the President (1988 to 1991) Traveling Press Secretary to the Vice President (1987 to 1989) Promoted through increasingly responsible positions in the West Wing of The White House. Partnered with Press Secretary to develop and execute critical PR strategies and campaigns for the President and Vice President. Coordinated daily press affairs with White House Press Corps for briefings, photos, Rose Garden events and Cabinet and Oval Office meetings.


-- Collaborated with high-level personnel in the US State Department, Justice Department, Defense Department and National Security Council to craft consistent messages for complex, sensitive and crisis communications. -- Coordinated PR, media and events for President’s Thousand Points of Life Office and Council on Physical Fitness. -- Coordinated logistics, advance and pre- and post-event messaging for President’s visit to US troops in Saudi Arabia. -- Built television studio providing live satellite feeds to broadcast Presidential messages, videos and PSAs. No recommendations for this position

Personal Aide to Attorney General John Doe at US Department of Justice Government Administration industry 1986 – 1987 (1 year) Represented Attorney General Doe at high-profile events and traveled with him in the US and abroad. Worked collaboratively with local and national press, the US Secret Service, dignitaries and the general public. No recommendations for this position

Confidential Assistant to Secretary Jane Smith at US Department of Commerce Government Administration industry 1985 – 1986 (1 year) Directed advance work, pre-event briefings and appearances. Accompanied Secretary on 4 special trade commissions to foster development in key technology and industrial markets. No recommendations for this position

Lead Advance Representative at Office of the Vice President of the United States Public Relations and Communications industry 1981 – 1985 (4 years) Transitioned part-time volunteer effort into full-time professional position in the Office of the Vice President. Coordinated political and logistical advance work with the Secret Service and managed local PR/media. Re-recruited to assist with affairs for Vice President George W. Bush’s Presidential Campaign. Traveled on Air Force II. No recommendations for this position Additional Information Groups and Director - American Marketing Association Associations Director - Advisory Board - Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication at Franklin

Pierce College Director - Magical Music for Life Pediatric Foundation Member - Public Relations Society of America Member - International Association of Business Communicators Member - National Press Club of Washington DC

White House Press Office Alumni

President George H.W. Bush Administration Appointees and Volunteers

White House Advance Associates


Honors and Awards Corporate Spokesperson to broadcast and print media outlets worldwide, including

television networks and all major news shows (CNN, MSNBC, CSPAN, Fox News). Quoted in every major national newspaper in the US.

Personal Information Phone 555-293-1111 Contact Settings Always interested in high-profile opportunities, programs, projects, networks, brainstorming groups and more as they relate to corporate communications, public relations, investor relations and more. Interested In • career opportunities • consulting offers • new ventures • job inquiries • expertise requests • business deals • reference requests • getting back in touch


SARAH TOBIN 415-‐229-‐7109 2133 Leavenworth Street #3B, San Francisco, CA 94133 [email protected]

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT LEADER Technology & Telecommunications / Consumer Goods / Business Services

Delivering “what’s next” and improving “what’s now” for companies that value innovation as a market advantage.

Expert at driving all phases of the product development lifecycle in diverse industries. Combine vision, strategy, process expertise, and business/financial acumen with a passion for innovation and the drive and discipline to bring the most viable products to market at the lowest development cost.

Highly effective at building strong teams and generating support for new ideas across large, dispersed organizations. Creative in involving partners, vendors, and internal champions and challengers. Energized by tough challenges.

Performance Highlights Twice built agile product development organizations from the ground up, keeping companies on the cutting edge. Thwarted competitive threat at XYZ by launching rapid-‐development process that speeded time-‐to-‐market by 60%. Delivered on high-‐stakes public promise made by Verizon CEO, creating multi-‐access Internet product in 9 months. Introduced world’s first residential broadband service and built to $6M annual revenue in 18 months.

EXPERIENCE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS SolutionTech San Jose, CA, 2009–Present Global business outsourcing provider of pioneering solutions for critical business support processes.

DIRECTOR, Next-‐Generation Product Development

Brought on board to create a world-‐class product development organization. Hit the ground running in entirely new industry and quickly ramped up product innovation while establishing the structure, processes, and metrics essential for a top-‐quality product-‐development function.

Midstream, assumed control of pilot project and led to 2009 Internet Telephony “Product of the Year” award. Created concept for new product line, the next generation of staffing outsourcing. Developed to pre-‐production in

8 months and under $275K budget. Commercialized/productized customer analytics technology, creating $2M annual revenue source for SolutionTech

and delivering new source for voice-‐of-‐the-‐customer metrics to our clients. Built firm foundation for innovation and execution within the product development organization:

Defined and implemented time-‐to-‐market process including Stage-‐Gate steps. Built internal team of both “product champions” and “product challengers.” Established and evangelized methodology to stimulate pipeline concepts from all areas of the company;

2 ideas introduced by sales successfully transformed into products. XYZ Retail Networks San Francisco, CA, 2006–2009 World’s leading retail media company; clients include Wal-‐Mart, Target, Sears, Costco, Best Buy.

DIRECTOR, Product Development

Strengthened product-‐development capability, melding creativity with process/structure to harness innovation and ensure sustainable success. Recruited to company that was on the leading edge of a new advertising space (captive retail networks) but needed discipline, structure, and repeatability in its product development department. Provided expert leadership to build the idea pipeline, justify development, and quickly bring ideas from concept to customer.

Retained company’s #1 line of business (+50% of revenue) by designing, developing, and installing next-‐generation retail broadcast systems ahead of inflexible deadline and under $29M budget.

Managed simultaneous release of multiple new products—consistently on schedule, on budget, exceeding performance targets, and delivering measurable benefits to clients. E.g., increased client’s category sales 52% within 3 months of installation; cut retailer’s capital cost 50% while maintaining viewership above 40%.


415-‐229-‐7109 Sarah Tobin [email protected]

XYZ Retail Networks, continued Drove continuous improvement and innovation in the product-‐development process and instilled both process and

innovation as a way of life. Key elements and results: Innovation instigation. Modified process to drive creativity and build R&D pipeline. Rapid-‐development process. Reduced time-‐to-‐market by 60%. Product-‐line rationalization. Improved existing products and boosted revenue metric by 19%. Concept-‐development process. Accelerated time-‐to-‐profit for new products without squelching creativity. Rapid prototyping and co-‐development strategies. Boosted number of concurrent projects by 40%. Quality audit process. Reduced installation errors by 27% in first 6 months.

Earned XYZ’S “Outstanding Achievement Award” within 6 months of hire. Verizon New York, NY, 1999–2005 A leading American broadband and telecommunications company

MANAGER, New Product Development, Advanced Broadband Services (2002–2005)

Designed and executed strategic roadmap for next-‐generation products. Improved and accelerated product-‐development process; boosted productivity 30%; initiated and managed relationships with co-‐development partners.

Developed product strategy and business plans for entry into digital music, online gaming, and e-‐health. Conceived revenue-‐optimization strategy that boosted sales opportunity 25% for Broadcast Interactive TV. Cut development costs in half by designing a prototype “fast-‐track” product development process.

MANAGER, Product Development, Internet Open Access Project (2001–2002)

Delivered on “impossible” commitment made by Verizon CEO to deploy a multiple-‐ISP Internet product by year-‐end—reversing the company’s longstanding policy of single-‐provider access. Appointed to the challenge following public announcement, rapidly assembled a cross-‐functional team, recruited new team, and led vigorous initiative that delivered results 2 months ahead of schedule.

Gained senior-‐management and regulatory approval for open access product roadmap and $7M budget. Negotiated agreements with 7 Internet Service Providers. Rolled out successful 300-‐customer trial ahead of schedule and under budget.

PRODUCT MANAGER, Verizon@Home (1999–2001)

Launched the nation’s first broadband residential service, Verizon@Home, and grew to 150,000 subscribers and $6M annual revenue within 18 months. Spearheaded aggressive development—introduced 25 new product features in 18 months and beat competitors (DSL providers) in product quality, functionality, and time-‐to-‐market.

Cut $5M from development costs by rationalizing features to meet customer expectations. Achieved 90+% customer satisfaction rating for 7 consecutive quarters. Generated $4M in in-‐kind marketing from major media companies. Defined Verizon@Home product positioning strategy to increase potential market size by 28%.

Prior Experience

TELECONFERENCING MANAGER, AP Media Services, 1997–1999. Managed high-‐volume, high-‐profile calls involving some of the world’s leading business, financial, and political leaders. Became recognized for innovative problem-‐solving skills and was subsequently recruited by a key client (Verizon) to lead a groundbreaking product initiative.

EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION BS Finance, 1997 • California State University

ScrumMaster Certification, 2009 Six Sigma Green Belt, 2008 • Villanova University

Certified New Product Development Professional, 2005 • PDMA


Sarah Tobin’s Complete LinkedIn Profile Sarah Tobin, CNPDP Product Development Leader – Technology & Telecom / CPG / Business Services Gaining competitive edge through innovation San Francisco Bay Area • Information Technology and Services Current • Director Next Generation Product Development at SolutionTech Past • Director Product Development at XYZ Retail Networks • Manager New Product Development – Advanced Broadband Services at

Verizon • Manager Product Development – Internet Open access Project at Verizon • Product Manager – Verizon@Home at Verizon • Teleconferencing Manager at AP Media Services Education California State University BS Finance 1995–1999 ScrumMaster Certification 2009 Villanova University Six Sigma Green Belt 2008 Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) Certified New Product Development Professional 2005 Recommendations 13 people have recommended Sarah Connections 276 connections Websites • Solutiontech.com • Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) Twitter • ProductDeveloper Public Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahtobin


Summary I am a Product Development leader with a passion for delivering “what’s next” and improving “what’s now” for companies that value innovation as a market advantage. In a fast-track career through product development roles in diverse industries, I have had a measurable impact on revenue, market penetration, and product innovation. An overview of my career includes these highlights: * SolutionTech: Built a world-class product development organization for this global business outsourcing provider with clients in 52 countries on 4 continents.

* XYZ Retail Networks: Headed product development teams in repeated launches of new media products for some the world’s largest retailers (Wal-Mart, Target, Costo, Best Buy). * Verizon Broadband Division: Led innovations including orchestrating the development, testing and market launch of the nation’s first residential broadband service and the company’s first multi-ISP Internet product.

Primarily focused on technology innovation, I excel at both the art and the science of product development. Specifically, my expertise includes research and development (R&D), pipeline development, market-validity testing, co-development partnerships, technology transfers, technology joint ventures, customer presentations, and key account relationship management (in partnership with sales, marketing, and business development teams). I am highly experienced in managing product teams and driving adoption of product development best practices that have been recognized as not only the standard within the company, but as the industry standard and model.

I thrive on challenge and am known as an innovator, change driver, and product evangelist. My expertise helps companies deliver on the promise of their ideas, capture new customers, expand into new markets, and outpace/outperform the competition.

* Next-Generation Product Development * Technology Commercialization * Team Leadership * Continuous Process Improvement * Six Sigma * ScrumMaster * CNPDP – PDMA Specialties Performance Highlights

* Twice built agile product development organizations from the ground up, keeping companies on the cutting edge.

* Thwarted competitive threat at XYZ Retail Networks by launching rapid-development process that speeded time-to-market by 60%.

* Delivered on high-stakes public promise made by Verizon CEO, creating multi-access Internet product in 9 months.

* Built the world’s first residential broadband service from zero to $6M annual revenue in 18 months. Experience Director, Next-Generation Product Development at SolutionTech Global business outsourcing provider of business-support solutions May 2009 – Present (1 year) Brought on board to create a world-class product development organization. Hit the ground running in entirely new industry and quickly ramped up product innovation while establishing the structure, processes, and metrics essential for a top-quality product-development function. Won Internet Telephony 2009 “Product of the Year” award.


4 recommendations for this position

Director, Product Development at XYZ Retail Networks World’s leading retail media company March 2006 – May 2009 (3 years 2 months) Strengthened product-development capability, melding creativity with process/structure to harness innovation and ensure sustainable success. Recruited to company that was on the leading edge of a new advertising space (captive retail networks) but needed discipline, structure, and repeatability in its product development department. Provided expert leadership to build the idea pipeline, justify development, and quickly bring ideas from concept to customer. Delivered multiple new products ahead of schedule and under budget and instilled innovation and process excellence as a way of life. Earned XYZ’s “Outstanding Achievement Award.” 5 recommendations for this position

Manager, New Product Development, Advanced Broadband Services at Verizon Leading American broadband and telecommunications company March 2002 – March 2006 (3 years) Designed and executed strategic roadmap for next-generation products. Improved and accelerated product-development process; boosted productivity 30%; initiated and managed relationships with co-development partners. Developed product strategy and business plans for entry into digital music, online gaming, and e-health. 2 recommendations for this position

Manager, Product Development, Open Access Project at Verizon June 2001 – March 2002 (9 months) Delivered on “impossible” commitment made by Verizon CEO to deploy a multiple-ISP Internet product by year-end—reversing the company’s longstanding policy of single-provider access. Appointed to the challenge following public announcement, rapidly assembled a cross-functional team, recruited new team, and led vigorous initiative that delivered results 2 months ahead of schedule. 2 recommendations for this position

Product Manager, Verizon@Home at Verizon September 1999 – June 2001 (1 year 9 months) Launched the nation’s first broadband residential service, Verizon@Home, and grew to 150,000 subscribers and $6M annual revenue within 18 months. Spearheaded aggressive development, introducing25 new product features in 18 months. Cut $5M from development costs by rationalizing features to meet customer expectations. Achieved 90+% customer satisfaction rating for 7 consecutive quarters. No recommendations for this position

Teleconferencing Manager at AP Media Services June 1997 – September 1999 Managed high-volume, high-profile calls involving some of the world’s leading business, financial, and political leaders. Became recognized for innovative problem-solving skills and was subsequently recruited by a key client (Verizon) to lead a groundbreaking product initiative. No recommendations for this position


No recommendations for this position Additional Information Interests Bike touring, traveling, California history and geography Groups and Product Development and Management Association Associations Honors and Awards “Product of the Year” – Internet Telephony, 2009

“Outstanding Achievement Award” – XYZ Retail Networks, 2006 Personal Information Phone 555-999-3828 Contact Settings I love to share product development ideas, success stories, and best practices. Always happy to advise if I can be of help. Interested In • career opportunities • consulting offers • new ventures • job inquiries • expertise requests • business deals • reference requests • getting back in touch

handouts linkedin

Documents

linkedin profiles

use linkedin

distinctive linkedin

bluesteps profile

louise kursmark page

rich profile

executive branches example

industry keywords