🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-r-cole/

Professional Summary
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Marketing and communications professional with 10+ years driving digital engagement, brand development, and media relations across global organizations, agencies, and mission-driven nonprofits. Expert at translating technical complexity into compelling narratives that build stakeholder trust and deliver measurable results. Proven track record securing national media coverage in top-tier publications, increasing web engagement, and improving client acquisition.

Professional Experience
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Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG) — Web Developer & Outreach Coordinator
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Peoria, IL | August 2023 – Present

Overhauled ICPG’s digital presence and statewide outreach strategy, increasing event attendance 30% and earning consistent recognition from healthcare partners across Illinois.
Led complete organizational rebrand including full website rebuild and promotional materials suite, resulting in National Council on Problem Gambling Affiliate Website Award nomination.
Attended 25+ professional conferences annually, conducting direct outreach to 1,000+ mental health professionals, probation officers, and educators across Illinois to increase awareness of gambling addiction resources and drive participation in ICPG training programs.
Designed and built custom WordPress event calendar system to promote ICPG’s training programs, resulting in a 45% increase in professional attendance at webinars and educational sessions; system received recognition from Illinois Department of Human Services and was subsequently adopted for statewide use.

MoneyStack / GamFin — Marketing & Design Specialist (Contract)
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Peoria, IL | December 2024 – April 2025

Implemented data-driven marketing analytics strategy with audience segmentation, improving client acquisition by 20%.
Produced marketing collateral including infographics, digital advertisements, and promotional materials during a high-growth phase.
Designed wireframe mockups and provided strategic recommendations for state partnership program pages, supporting contracted services expansion.
Interviewed financial advisors to create professional bios for client acquisition portal.

3Q/Digital — Public Relations Manager
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Chicago, IL | October 2021 – February 2023

Directed proactive and reactive media relations, securing coverage in Business Insider, Adweek, AdAge, Digiday, and MarketingDive.
Conducted weekly media outreach and maintained relationships with key industry reporters.
Created an internal engagement program that increased subject matter expert participation in communications initiatives.
Improved employer-brand visibility through strategic awards submissions and workplace recognition programs.

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) — Communications Specialist
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Washington, D.C. | July 2019 – May 2021

Served as organizational spokesperson for North American media and trade publications.
Generated millions of impressions through print, digital, and video coverage.
Functioned as executive ghostwriter for the CEO, Board Chair, and senior leadership.
Developed crisis communications plans covering 150+ technical topics and served as lead crisis communications strategist.
Moderated large-scale hybrid community engagement events with 1,000–2,500 participants.
Traveled internationally to support global communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives.

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) — Senior Communications Coordinator
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Washington, D.C. | July 2016 – June 2019

Created and maintained a repository of official messaging covering hundreds of technical topics.
Led North American media relations for the generic top-level domain program, producing executive messaging, video content, and strategic media outreach.

Skills
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Creative Tools Adobe Illustrator | Adobe InDesign | Adobe Photoshop | Canva | Final Cut Pro

Education
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American University, Washington D.C.
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Bachelor of Arts, Public Communications
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September 2009 – June 2013

Professional Summary #

Professional Experience #

Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG) — Web Developer & Outreach Coordinator #

MoneyStack / GamFin — Marketing & Design Specialist (Contract) #

3Q/Digital — Public Relations Manager #

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) — Communications Specialist #

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) — Senior Communications Coordinator #

Skills #

Education #

American University, Washington D.C. #

Bachelor of Arts, Public Communications #