Catrell from Washington
Director
WHAT DO YOU DO AT WEBER SHANDWICK?
I manage multicultural PR programs for my clients.
WHY WEBER SHANDWICK?
It’s funny that my career path led me to Weber Shandwick. While in graduate school in London, I was extremely interested in working for Weber Shandwick because of its reputation as an industry leader. After returning to Washington, D.C., I still hadn’t gotten the political bug out of my system and opted for another stint on Capitol Hill. Two years later, I was ready for a new experience and fortunately, found a position at Weber Shandwick’s office in Washington, D.C. I enjoy working for our firm because each day is different and each client faces a unique set of challenges. I love the fact that no two days are ever the same – one day I’m planning a conference and the next day I’m managing sponsorship negotiations for a new partnership.
HOW ARE YOU AN ADVOCATE?
As an advocate, I think strategically about how our team can use public affairs tools to help clients reach their objectives. Keeping in mind my clients’ priorities and resources, I try to continuously present new and innovative ideas to help them reach their goals in the most cost-effective, efficient way. I am at my best when I convince a client to step out of their comfort zone and try a more effective approach to addressing a communications challenge.
WHAT DOES ADVOCACY MEAN TO YOU?
I believe advocacy is a powerful tool. It gives us the power to change public perception, influence behavior and as a result, impact outcomes. When advocacy is effectively used, we can improve the lives of others -- whether that’s providing a public health care option, protecting the environment or empowering people.