Kelly Gardner
Senior Brand Strategy + Communications Manager
Aliso Viejo, California USAAbout
Bringing 7+ years of experience including my current role as Senior Brand Strategy + Communications Manager. I specialize in crafting effective social media strategies and facilitating growth-focused collaborations. I am a dedicated and motivated individual with experience in sports operations and social media.
Experience
Senior Brand Strategy + Communications Manager
Apr 2022 - Present
Drive brand strategy, communications, and social media to align with company goals. Craft compelling narratives, ensure cross-channel consistency, and elevate visibility. Manage media relations, executive positioning, and partnerships while mentoring teams to deliver engagement, growth, and measurable impact.
Digital Media Coordinator
Jul 2020 - Apr 2022
Oversaw 21 district social media accounts and 7 websites, driving community engagement and communication. Led paid media campaigns, live-streamed major events, and developed virtual school showcase campaigns, while ensuring daily content optimization, audience growth, and measurable impact through metric tracking.
Social Media & Gameday Operations Coordinator
Aug 2017 - Mar 2020
Directed live game coverage with real-time tweeting, player GIFs, and Instagram growth. Led gameday operations volunteers, managing ticketing and community outreach. Collaborated with coaches to streamline programs and drive student fan engagement, expanding visibility and strengthening team-community connections.
Education
Sports Management
- Bachelors
Aug 2017 - Apr 2020
Graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management with a minor in Marketing in 3 years.
