After a rigorous nationwide recruitment, the city of Carlsbad has selected Kristina Ray as its new communications manager.
Ray assumed the duties of communications manager Nov. 17. She was selected following the resignation of the previous manager, Denise Vedder, last May.
As communications manager, Ray's primary responsibilities include overseeing the city's comprehensive communications program. This includes developing enhanced Web-based communication tools, creating opportunities for the public to work in partnership with the city and furthering the city's role as a source of timely information for the public and the media.
Her duties also include managing the city's informational publications, special events and employee communication programs. Ray has nearly 20 years of experience in designing and implementing communication programs at the local, state and national level.
“Kristina's expertise in strategic communications and community outreach make her an ideal candidate,” said City Manager Lisa Hildabrand. “We look forward to her overseeing the city's dynamic communications efforts.”
Ray most recently held the position of vice president at Katz & Associates, a San Diego-based communication firm specializing in public outreach and involvement for government agencies. Ray was responsible for working with public agencies to develop effective communication strategies for a wide range of issues, including land use planning, environmental, utility rates, facilities sitting and social marketing.
Experienced in media relations, Ray began her career working for two former White House press secretaries. While in Washington, she worked with Fortune 500 companies handling issues before Congress and the administration.
She recently served as a community columnist for the North County Times and has worked as a public relations instructor at San Diego State University.
“I am looking forward to working with the Carlsbad community in my new role,” Ray said. “It is a great opportunity to further the city's strong commitment to community involvement, partnership and communication.”
Ray, who has resided in Carlsbad for 25 years, has a master's degree in communication from San Diego State University and a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of San Diego.
Ray assumed the duties of communications manager Nov. 17. She was selected following the resignation of the previous manager, Denise Vedder, last May.
As communications manager, Ray's primary responsibilities include overseeing the city's comprehensive communications program. This includes developing enhanced Web-based communication tools, creating opportunities for the public to work in partnership with the city and furthering the city's role as a source of timely information for the public and the media.
Her duties also include managing the city's informational publications, special events and employee communication programs. Ray has nearly 20 years of experience in designing and implementing communication programs at the local, state and national level.
“Kristina's expertise in strategic communications and community outreach make her an ideal candidate,” said City Manager Lisa Hildabrand. “We look forward to her overseeing the city's dynamic communications efforts.”
Ray most recently held the position of vice president at Katz & Associates, a San Diego-based communication firm specializing in public outreach and involvement for government agencies. Ray was responsible for working with public agencies to develop effective communication strategies for a wide range of issues, including land use planning, environmental, utility rates, facilities sitting and social marketing.
Experienced in media relations, Ray began her career working for two former White House press secretaries. While in Washington, she worked with Fortune 500 companies handling issues before Congress and the administration.
She recently served as a community columnist for the North County Times and has worked as a public relations instructor at San Diego State University.
“I am looking forward to working with the Carlsbad community in my new role,” Ray said. “It is a great opportunity to further the city's strong commitment to community involvement, partnership and communication.”
Ray, who has resided in Carlsbad for 25 years, has a master's degree in communication from San Diego State University and a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of San Diego.