G-VGH88926KD
ALEX MCKINLEY  ABOUT ME  LINKEDIN


Alex McKinley

 Take one to go:   DOWNLOAD  We should talk:  CONTACT
SummaryEmerging Creative Strategist with 3 years of experience in agency settings. Proven ability to uncover insights, propose business solutions, and develop campaigns. Pursuing an M.S. in Business Branding at VCU Brandcenter, recognized for award-winning work and leadership in brand strategy.

Experience
Creative Strategy InternJune 2024 - August 2024
On Board Experiential, San Francisco, CA
  • Identified and presented key insights from post-event surveys, foot traffic, and sales data for Chase Sapphire stakeholder events, recommending strategies to enhance future event success
  • Conducted in-depth social listening in Sprout to analyze influencer effectiveness and user-generated content for Dick's Sporting Goods and Nike events
  • Revamped agency capabilities presentation, highlighting production and creative technology departments to win new business and drive agency growth
  • Analyzed trends in experiential marketing at sporting events with an emphasis on the Paris Olympics, forecasting trends in upcoming global events hosted in the US
Student Director 
August 2022 – May 2023
Second Story Media, Boone, NC
  • Led cross-functional team of 20 students to develop and deliver brand-aligned marketing campaigns across video, print, social media, and web platforms for non-profits and local businesses
  • Strategized comprehensive brand platforms for multiple departments within Appalachian State University, elevating brand presence and image
  • Oversaw all aspects of internal and external communications, ensuring clear and effective strategies, efficient project execution, and high client satisfaction

Marketing/Brand Coordination Intern
May 2022 - August 2022
WCP Consulting & Communications, Winston-Salem, NC
  • Directed strategic updates to modernize the WCP Speakers’ Bureau website and enhance user experience, driving increased bookings, speaker social media engagement, and event coordinator satisfaction
  • Developed strategic social media and promotional content, ensuring alignment with client brand messaging and driving engagement through targeted campaigns
  • Led client meetings, gathering feedback that resulted in enhanced operational efficiency and improved client satisfaction
EducationMaster of Science in Business Branding
Expected Graduation May 2025
VCU Brandcenter, Richmond VA
  • Best in Show, Richmond Ad Club
  • Developed expertise in brand strategy, creating impactful campaigns that resonate with target audiences
  • Led the ideation and execution of brand activations, ensuring they align with and amplify brand messaging to drive engagement and connection
  • Lab Monitor – Brandcenter IT

Bachelor of Science in Advertising
May 2023
Appalachian State University, Boone NC
  • Magna Cum Laude
  • Dean’s List: Fall 2020- Spring 2023
  • Scholarships: Chick-Fil-A 55 Leadership, North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (2x), Autobell Car Wash Employee
  • Men’s Club Lacrosse Executive Officer, Treasurer, Social Media Manager