Resume
HI, I’m Ben.
I bring experience in organizational strategy, systems leadership, and operational communication.
I've worn a lot of hats- and each one shaped the work I do today.
I build strategic planning functions, communication systems, and operational frameworks that move complex organizations from vision to measurable action. My career spans senior leadership at Washington State University, 13 years running a creative communications practice, and a decade of university teaching — each building on the last.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Built WSU’s systemwide strategic planning function from scratch. Developed the processes, platforms, dashboards, and implementation cycles, then scaled everything across six campuses and multiple colleges — reporting progress to 100+ leaders including the Board of Regents on a bimonthly cycle.
- Led strategic communications for WSU’s planning office. Three websites, bimonthly leadership updates, stakeholder campaigns, annual reports, and a full suite of print and digital materials.
- Founded and operated Firelight Creative Co. (formerly DesignWire) for 13 years. End-to-end brand and communication systems for small businesses and nonprofits.
- Taught communication and design for nearly a decade. Graphic design, web development, advertising, public relations, and multimedia content creation at three universities.
years in communication and design
years teaching in higher ed
Facilitated implementation plans
Creative projects delivered
There’s a lot here to my story- experience, education, and recognition.
But the real value is better understood in conversation. Let’s chat.
