
Web Communications Manager, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Greater New York City Area

Web Communications Manager, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Greater New York City Area
With a long track record of verifiable media relations experience, hands-on web expertise and a over a decade of successful communications initiatives, Cortland is well-suited for handling the public relations challenges of today's organizations and achieving winning results.
Cortland has appeared on CNN-FN, NPR, local TV affiliates for NBC and CBS and has been quoted in numerous print publications including Wired magazine, The Phoenix Business Journal and The Arizona Republic among many others. Cortland was recently featured on NJ101.5, the largest radio station in New Jersey.
Cortland plays well with others, enjoys long runs outside and loves spending time with his wife and 3-year old son.
Media Relations, Community Relations and Outreach, Public Affairs, Internet Strategy, External Communications, Internal Communications, Writing
(Government Agency; 1001-5000 employees; Public Relations and Communications industry)
July 2007 — Present (1 year 1 month)
* Produced and published cross-agency interactive content highlighting agency priorities, initiatives and news.
* Created marketing, outreach and educational materials to raise awareness of important environmental issues in New Jersey.
* Wrote speeches, talking points and background briefing papers for agency leadership’s participation at public events.
(Government Agency; 501-1000 employees; Public Relations and Communications industry)
March 2004 — June 2007 (3 years 4 months)
* Coordinated entire scope of internal and external communications for cabinet-level state regulatory agency.
* Managed communications office including all staff members, projects, deliverables and budget.
* Created and implemented annual communications plan encompassing all media relations, advertising, marketing and outreach initiatives.
(Government Agency; 501-1000 employees; Environmental Services industry)
September 2003 — March 2004 (7 months)
* Initiated aggressive community outreach plan to address resident concerns regarding industrial facilities located near neighborhoods.
* Organized outreach activities and facilitated educational meetings with community members and agency staff.
* Trained staff members on effective practices for conducting community relations and neighborhood outreach.
(Partnership; 1-10 employees; Internet industry)
April 2001 — September 2003 (2 years 6 months)
* Founded Web site development and online marketing company in Scottsdale, Arizona.
* Specialized in marketing message development, delivery and campaign measurement.
* Developed marketing and public relations strategies for businesses, elected officials and nonprofit organizations.
(Non-Profit; 11-50 employees; Public Relations and Communications industry)
January 2000 — April 2001 (1 year 4 months)
* Implemented the world’s first binding, Web-based public election during the 2000 Arizona Democratic Presidential Primary.
* Oversaw web site redesign project that culminated in award as “Best Democratic Party Web Site in the Country” by Campaigns & Elections magazine.
* Executed marketing strategies to enhance profile of nonprofit organization, establish awareness of relevant issues and increase the organization’s membership.
(Non-Profit; 11-50 employees; Political Organization industry)
September 1997 — January 2000 (2 years 5 months)
* Wrote and distributed press releases, managed media relations and scheduled press availabilities for elected officials.
* Designed, developed and edited monthly newsletter distributed to 20,000+ member organization.
* Supervised design, production and distribution of direct marketing materials for issue advocacy and fund-raising purposes.
BS, Political Science, 1994 — 1997
AA, Psychology, 1992 — 1994
HS Diploma, 1986 — 1990
Web technologies, fine cigars, beach days, trout fishing, time with the family
Toastmasters, St. Peter's, Twitter,
Silver Star Award - "Exemplary Service and Extraordinary Contributions," Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, 2007
Constellation Team Award - "Climate Change Team," Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, 2006
Constellation Team Award - "Children's Health Forum," Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, 2004
Best Democratic Party Web Site - "Campaigns and Elections" Magazine, 1999