As newsrooms shrink and the communications landscape evolves, PR is a quickly growing profession, especially among women. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 report, 61% of PR jobs are held by women. Yet, the statistics also show men still hold the majority of C-suite and management positions in the workforce. Learn from local PR leaders and communications professionals how they’ve made a seat for themselves at the table.
Our Panelists:
- Sarah Maio serves as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Wisconsin Center, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena and Miller High Life Theatre. Since joining the Wisconsin Center District (WCD) in 2016, Maio has developed the organization’s marketing and communications department including redesigning the venues’ websites for an enhanced customer experience, developing long-term strategic communications plans and expanding WCD’s visibility locally and nationally.
With more than 15 years of marketing experience, Maio is a results-driven leader with proven expertise in eCommerce, integrated communications and fundraising. A member of WCD’s leadership team, Maio works across multiple communication spectrums to develop strategies that drive WCD forward and achieve business goals.
- Tammy Belton-Davis has a background spanning two decades in government, education and public relations, Tammy Belton-Davis merged her love of politics and community with communications by launching Athena Communications nearly 10 years ago. She is the founder and principal of Athena Communications, a firm delivering strategic and impactful communications to its corporate and government affairs partners. We have a demonstrated track record in helping clients with a variety of public engagement efforts. Tammy is an award-winning public relations professional having been inducted in Alverno College’s Vanguard Society, the highest honor bestowed upon a alumnus for their professional achievement and community service in 2017. She was honored later in 2017 as Center of Change for her work and commitment to work as a change agent in Milwaukee. In March, 2018 her firm was recognized with a Diversity in Business Award by the Milwaukee Business Journal.
Prior to launching Athena, Tammy held senior level positions in city government and community-based organizations, and served as staff assistant with the Milwaukee County Board and Milwaukee Common Council. The consummate professional, she brings a fresh perspective and excellence to every project. Tammy’s charismatic style in facilitating branding sessions or delivering a customized communications session make her a sought after presenter and leader. She specializes in brand management, strategic communications and government affairs.
- Jodie Tabak is the communications director for the City of Milwaukee. Mayor Barrett appointed Jodie Tabak as special assistant upon taking office in April of 2004. He subsequently tapped her to be communications director in 2009. In her current capacity, she oversees all of the Administration’s external and internal communications, directs strategic communications outreach on policy matters and manages the City’s crisis communications and message development. Jodie also serves as project lead on several high profile Barrett Administration initiatives, including the Democratic National Convention. Prior to joining the administration, Jodie was in the marketing and communications department at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Her career began with the Muscular Dystrophy Association where she held various positions. Jodie graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in journalism. She is an active volunteer with numerous organizations.
- Kim Schultz joined HPGM as Program Manager in 2013. In 2015, she completed the Future Milwaukee Leadership Program through Marquette University. That same year, she was promoted to Associate Director of Corporate Events at HPGM. In 2016, she completed the Nonprofit Board Prep Program through YLINK in Kenosha.
In 2017, Kim was again promoted, to Director of Strategic Partnerships & Events, taking on a larger role in developing and maintaining corporate and community partnerships. She worked with the President & CEO and Board of Directors to create HPGM programs, plan events, collaborate with members, explore funding opportunities, and reach strategic goals.
In August of 2019, Kim was named Interim Executive Director of HPGM.
