1. Ann Dennis
anndennis118@gmail.com
118 Hetherington Crescent, Thornhill, Ontario L4J 2M2 (416) 985-1516
Highly creative, energetic and idea-oriented Communications and Public Relations
professional recognized for increasing brand awareness, excellent negotiating ability
and superior written, communication and interpersonal skills. Extensive issues
management, staff management and media relations experience.
Professional Experience
BDO Canada Limited
Manager, Public Relations & Business Development July 2013 – April 2015
Reported to Managing Partner
Managed the internal and external communications, and public relations function for the firm’s
Financial Recovery Services practice.
Responsibilities:
Created and managed public relations strategy
Developed and managed internal and external communications, including but not limited to
trade shows, media training, blog writing and social media
Created and managed blogging strategy
Managed third party vendors
Built relationships, through continuous networking, with non-traditional media and
industries to create brand awareness and build business
Developed consumer-friendly marketing materials for trade shows and educational purposes
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada, Inc.
Communications & Public Relations Manager August 2010 – July 2012
Reported to Executive Director
Managed the external communications and public relations functions for the company.
Responsibilities:
Created and managed the company's public relations strategy
Developed press releases, surveys, and current news items affecting the credit counselling
industry
Developed client communication materials
Established social media presence (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn)
Identified speaking opportunities
Enhanced branding efforts to position the company as the leader in their industry
Consultant January 2008 – August 2010
Provided Event Management and Public Relations services to small and mid-sized organizations.
STAPLES (contract) August 2005 – August 2007
Conference, Events & Public Relations Manager
Reported to Vice President of Marketing
Managed the day-to-day conferences, events and public relations activities on a national basis to
engage associates by providing easy-to-read communications, add value and create a positive public
image for the company.
Responsibilities
2. Managed all aspects of National Conference including internal communications, budget,
RFP’s, venue selection, creative elements, registration, staff management, logistics, décor,
A/V, production of video presentations, sourcing guest speakers, presentation formats and
negotiating preferred suppliers.
Managed events and communication plans for new product launches
Redesigned and managed annual ‘Give a Dollar. Share a Dream’ program supporting Special
Olympics Canada. 2006 results $530,000 2005 results $485,000
Redesigned and managed all aspects of 2006 Back to School campaign including: internal
and external communication plans, media strategy, press releases, events, Back to School
Supply Drive raising more than $400,000 in product and cash donations and resulting in
more than 21million impressions.
Priszm/KIT Ltd. May 2004 – May 2005
Events and Program Manager (Contract)
Reported to Director, Corporate & Legal Affairs
Managed communications, events and public relations opportunities on a national basis to add value
and create a positive public image for KFC/Priszm.
Responsibilities:
Managed all aspects meeting and events
Developed/implemented events and communication plan for Mothers Against Drunk
Driving fundraising program. Results raised more than $220,000
Negotiated contract with Mothers Against Drunk Driving to include ‘bounce back’ to the
restaurants through the development of a 16-month calendar.
Wrote communication materials for all Restaurant Support Centre and store staff regarding
key events in the organization.
CONSULTANT October 2001 – October 2003
Provide Event Planning and Public Relations services to small and mid-sized organizations.
SHOPPERS DRUG MART, Toronto April 1978 – October 2001
Manager, Public Relations April 1999 – October 2001
Reported to the Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs
Directed day to day internal and external communications for all brands.
Responsibilities:
Developed and implemented communications plans for major fundraising campaigns.
Wrote communication materials for all internal and external stakeholders regarding the sale
of the company.
Developed and implemented Charitable Giving Policy
Negotiated contracts and monitored budget ($300K+) of 3 external public relations
resources.
Developed and implemented communications plans for the launch of ‘Shoppers Optimum’
Loyalty Program and Quo cosmetics.
Managed internal conferences and meetings for Head Office staff and Pharmacists/Owners
including speech writing and presentation format for senior leaders, budget, creative
elements, production of video presentations, sourcing guest speakers, presentation formats
and negotiating preferred suppliers.
Acted as media spokesperson.
COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS
Canadian Mesothelioma Foundation – Events and Fundraising Manager
3. Multiple Myelomia – Moving Together for a Cure Walk – Recruitment Co-ordinator