Melissa Holder brings more than ten years of writing experience to the team. Her diverse background has provided the opportunity to work with many different industries and individuals. Most recently Melissa has established her own company, Holder Communications, which provides experienced writing, editing and proofreading services.
EXPERIENCE:
2007-Present ~ Holder Communications
President
- Established communications consulting firm to provide services to businesses, non-profit organizations and elected/political leaders.
- Services include all written communications--from press releases to articles to Internet content--and editing and proofreading. Other services tailored to individual needs, including event assistance, also available.
2003-2006 ~ Fulton County Government
Assistant to Karen C. Handel, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners
- Oversaw development of new website, created and directed distribution of constituent email, wrote articles for regular publication and developed speeches.
- Constituent liaison for Chairman. Included responding to telephone, email and written inquiries; coordinating proclamations and awards; and advising Chairman.
- Interacted with all media outlets, scheduled interviews, developed talking points and distributed press materials
1999-2003 ~ North Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Communications Manager
- Developed monthly newsletter & bi-weekly email communications for members and community leaders. Formed and coordinated communications committee.
- Developed and implemented new marketing strategies and revamped website to enhance business exposure.
- Liaison with media, including writing and distribution of press releases and conducting interviews. Created issues management processes.
- Implemented new retention program and within six months saw 10% increase in retention of members.
1997-1999 ~ DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau
Marketing Coordinator
- Assisted in all aspects of marketing, including advertising, collateral production, and public relations.
- Created Light Up DeKalb program involving more than 25 partners.
1995-1997 ~ Atlanta Sports & Rec
Special Events Coordinator
- Coordinated all aspects of in-store promotions, including design and distribution of information, securing sponsorship and community involvement.
- Acted as public relations representative for store.
- Responsible for budget.
EDUCATION DISTINCTIONS:
University of Illinois Urbana, IL
B.S., Journalism (1994)
- Minor in Sociology
- Kappa Tau Alpha; National Communications Honorary
Leadership North Fulton graduate; Class of 2001
- Nine-month leadership development program. Project team developed four 10-minute videos, one each for the previous four United States wars, and entered tapes into Fulton County School library system.
