You Need to Meet: Kelly Vance

by: Trevor Dickerson

What is the name of your company, project, or hobby?    

VANCE.

Describe more in depth what you work on while at 804RVA.    

I'm the head honcho and lead communications strategist at VANCE, a local PR outfit. 

PR isn't just about getting ink. We marry the art of storytelling with the science of digital strategy, helping brands delight and captivate their audiences, wherever they happen to be. 

I've been in the business for 15 years and haven't had a dull moment yet. 

How did you find out about 804RVA, or who introduced you?    

Trevor Dickerson.

What challenges you most about your industry or craft?

Albert Einstein said it best: "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." 

PR people must become fluent in the industries they represent. Even if it's not rocket science, every practitioner faces a learning curve when trying to understand the jargon and dynamics of a given industry. 

I spend a lot of time researching and asking questions, not only in the beginning phase of a project, but throughout the client relationship. It also means I get a lot of "behind-the-scenes" experience, from nuclear power plant tours to backstage antics. 

While research is among the most challenging aspects of my job, it's what I love most about it.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wolfpack?    

The camaraderie and creativity. After two years at 804RVA, I still get a friendly invitation to Tea Time every morning. I meet some of the smartest, most interesting people here. There is always a discussion about how to improve our city and I love being part of that.

Plus, they make good coffee.

What's one interesting, funny or weird fact no one knows about you?   
 
I'm a good travel companion. I can make small talk and get directions in 6 languages.

Learn more about Kelly's work >>

---