Hello, I'm Nancy Bistritz-Balkan.

I thrive on the challenge of transforming complex business scenarios into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences and inspire action. My journey through the world of strategic marketing and communications has been driven by a genuine passion for storytelling, a craft I’ve honed over years of experience across various industries. Whether it’s creating the first corporate communications function at Purchasing Power or establishing the first cybersecurity communications function at McKesson, I find joy in turning intricate concepts into clear strategies that drive change. One of my proudest moments was founding the first consumer education program at Equifax. This initiative not only enhanced consumer advocacy but also allowed me to serve as the spokesperson in the U.S., communicating vital information during a pivotal time for the organization. I’ve led teams through crises with effective messaging while ensuring brand consistency across all platforms, from internal communications to public relations strategies. Throughout my career, I’ve developed integrated marketing strategies that have significantly elevated brand visibility and market positioning. For instance, while at CHEP USA, I co-led a rebranding effort that shifted perceptions from a supply chain company to a supply change innovator, an experience that taught me the power of narrative in shaping organizational identity. Beyond my professional endeavors, I actively engage with storytelling communities and enjoy volunteering for local literacy programs. These experiences not only enrich my personal life but also reinforce my belief in the transformative power of stories, whether they’re shared through words or actions.

Details

Professional CategoryBrand, Marketing & Communications
Location
Years of Relevant Experience15-20 years
Seniority LevelExecutive
Consulting Rate (Hourly)350

Headline

Chief Communications Officer

Experience

VP, BtoB Marketing & Corporate Communications

Purchasing PowerJanuary 2022 - CurrentKey accomplishments include: * Founded the BtoB Marketing and Corporate Communications function, that increase thought leadership by 40% within the first year through targeted public relations initiatives. * Drove lead generation efforts that resulted in a 30% increase in marketing qualified leads year-over-year by implementing innovative marketing strategies and enhancing market positioning. * Managed a diverse team of integrated marketing professionals, fostering collaboration that improved project delivery timelines by 25% and enhanced overall team performance metrics. * Oversaw governance of corporate communications practices that safeguarded the company’s reputation during critical periods, effectively mitigating potential risks through proactive messaging strategies.

Director, Cybersecurity Communications

Relevant/Notable employerMcKesson August 2019 - January 2022Key accomplishments included: * Established the cybersecurity communications function at McKesson, ensuring a structured approach to incident management that improved organizational awareness and responsiveness to cybersecurity threats. * Developed the first-ever Cybersecurity Incident Notification & Escalation Playbook for the Board of Directors, enhancing clarity in communication during critical incidents and fostering trust among stakeholders. * Facilitated a comprehensive cybersecurity metrics program that communicated results monthly to all stakeholders within the organization, driving informed decision-making and strategic improvements. * Managed a dedicated core team of cybersecurity professionals focused on training and project management, increasing team efficiency by 30% through streamlined processes and effective communication strategies.

VP, Communications and Consumer Education

Relevant/Notable employerEquifax July 2014 - August 2019Key accomplishments included: * Founded the consumer education program at Equifax, establishing a global vision that enhanced brand reputation and consumer trust across multiple markets within the first year of implementation. * Collaborated with leadership and external stakeholders to develop advocacy initiatives that increased consumer engagement by 30%, driving a significant rise in brand sentiment. * Served as the primary spokesperson for consumer education in the U.S., effectively communicating key messages to diverse audiences through various channels, resulting in a 25% increase in audience reach. * Managed a high-performing team of content creators and PR professionals, streamlining communication processes that improved project delivery timelines by 40% while maintaining quality standards. * Founded the Content Strategy function at Equifax, establishing a cohesive internal communications framework that increased employee engagement by 30% within the first year of implementation. * Spearheaded the external public relations strategy, resulting in a 40% increase in positive media coverage and a 25% growth in brand visibility across digital platforms over 18 months. * Developed and delivered actionable internal communications that streamlined messaging across departments, enhancing clarity and reducing misunderstandings by 20%, contributing to a more aligned workforce. * Oversaw the creation of compelling consumer-facing website content that improved user engagement metrics by 50%, driving higher traffic volumes and increasing conversion rates on direct-to-consumer initiatives.

Manager, Communications & Content

Relevant/Notable employerCHEP, A Brambles CompanyApril 2012 - July 2014Key accomplishments included: * Developed and executed a comprehensive content strategy for CHEP North America and IFCO PMS that elevated brand visibility by over 30% within eight months of implementation. * Conducted extensive research and audits that informed the creation of engaging marketing materials which resulted in a 25% increase in audience engagement metrics across multiple channels. * Authored persuasive white papers and thought leadership articles that effectively communicated the value proposition of products, leading to a 15% increase in lead generation initiatives. * Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align messaging across platforms, ensuring consistent brand communication that resonated with target audiences. * Co-led the successful rebranding of CHEP North America from a supply chain company to a supply change company, significantly enhancing market perception and brand identity across multiple channels. * Developed and executed comprehensive strategic communications plans in collaboration with key decision-makers, resulting in improved alignment of messaging and increased stakeholder engagement by 30%. * Led crisis communications efforts during critical situations, ensuring timely and effective messaging that mitigated potential reputational damage and maintained public trust in the organization. * Oversaw public relations initiatives that elevated CHEP USA's brand visibility, including securing a groundbreaking 17-minute segment on NPR's Planet Money, marking a first for the company. Skills: Strategic Communications, Crisis Management, Public Relations

Senior Director

Nurun October 2005 - October 2012Key accomplishments included: * Spearheaded public relations initiatives that enhanced brand visibility by 30%, significantly increasing media coverage across key industry publications including Mashable. * Developed comprehensive internal and external communication strategies that improved employee engagement scores by 25%, fostering a more informed workforce. * Authored compelling content for the Nurun blog and other platforms, driving a 40% increase in audience engagement through strategic storytelling techniques. * Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align business development goals with communication efforts, resulting in a 20% increase in client acquisition within two years. * Developed a comprehensive marketing communications strategy that significantly improved brand visibility for the Atlanta office of Nurun, leading to a 30% increase in media mentions within one year. * Compiled a strategic public relations plan that included editorial outreach and executive visibility opportunities, resulting in the successful submission of 15 awards over four years, enhancing company reputation. * Executed targeted bylined articles and industry analyst outreach programs that effectively positioned executives as thought leaders in the market, contributing to a 25% increase in inbound inquiries from potential clients. * Fostered strong internal and external communication efforts that streamlined messaging across departments, reducing response time to media inquiries by 40%, thus improving overall communication efficiency.

Industry

Administrative and Support Services
Financial Services
Professional Services
Technology, Information and Media

Specific Jurisdictions That I'm Qualified In or Can Cover

United States: Georgia

Language(s)

English

Education

Auburn University

DegreeJournalism -

I am interested in

Career Opportunities