CARY CARR COX

323 East Lane Street

Raleigh, NC 27601

C (704) 907-3735

cary@carycarrcox.com
www.linkedin.com/in/caryccox

H (919) 803-1110

MARKETING, PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS EXPERT

An award-winning, strategic marketing and public relations expert who weaves together PR, advertising, events, direct
mail and social media to reach and motivate targeted audiences. At heart, I am a storyteller and have a passion for
discovering what makes each project and partner unique, playing up their strengths and contrasting them to competitors to
attract attention in a crowded and chaotic marketplace.

EXPERIENCE
NC Depart. of Natural and Cultural Resources
Raleigh, NC
2013 Present
Assistant Secretary for Marketing and Communications
Spokesperson of state-owned natural and cultural resources, programs and initiatives in NC. Successfully manage the
planning and implementation of communication, social media, digital, fund raising and marketing strategies across all
areas of department to highlight customer service, increase visitation and heighten awareness at historic sites, parks,
museums and artistic venues. Steer internal and external communications, issues management and all areas of
communications. Results increased across all channels, including a 400% increase in media stories. Launched DNCR TV,
a livestream web program. Developed and implemented successful statewide advocacy campaign strategy that generated
over 1,800 news stories and new legislation. Manage team of fourteen.
Cox Marketing Group
Charlotte, NC / Concord, NC
1996 2013
President
Effectively marketed multiple clients products/services to external targeted audiences utilizing an integrated planned
strategy of brand development, advertising, public relations, direct mail, events and new media. Developed and
strengthened internal communications of companies, motivating and inspiring employees to reach business goals and
promote complementary communication strategies. Produced logos, collateral materials, media stories, print / digital ads,
direct mail, radio spots, events and websites. Discovered and utilized keywords to enhance Search Engine Optimization.
In survey of large client base, 99% of our clients rated their experience with us as very good to excellent. In
addition, 66% of our clients recommended us to other companies looking for marketing services.
Charlotte Association of Realtors
Charlotte, NC
1989 1996
Public Affairs and Communications Director
Successfully managed all public relations and governmental affairs for the real estate trade association. Created and
implemented comprehensive and effective communications and marketing programs. Registered lobbyist.
Congressman Alex McMillan Campaign
Charlotte, NC
1987 1988
Campaign Manager
Developed and implemented successful campaign business plan. Exceeded fund raising and election returns expectations.
Republican National Committee
Washington, DC / Mid-Atlantic States
1981 1987
Local Programs Director
Successfully strategized and directed local and statewide candidates on strategic communications planning. Faculty
member of national political campaign school. Experienced with White House and Vice-Presidential events.

PROFESSIONAL AWARDS
International Public Relations Award, Mortons The Steakhouse
W3 National Silver Award, Beya Jewelry Website

Cary Carr Cox

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PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Public Relations Society of America
Raleigh Public Relations Society

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
REPRESENTATIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
NC Depart. of Natural and Cultural Resources: Reinstated historic tax credits through a planned advocacy
strategy implemented statewide through 73-stop tour across the state over nine month period. Targeted key legislative
districts, aligned messaging with jobs and economic development, organized site events, developed fact sheet, generated
over 1,800 news stories that all resulted in successful legislation. Development of historic buildings returned and
investments increased while state experienced return on tax dollars.
As department grew over last year, laid communications foundation to smoothly welcome transferred employees as well
as their communication professionals, personalized expanded marketing plans, established training and best practices to
combine all into one, new department that now includes two science museums, three aquariums and Jennette's Pier, 39
state parks and recreation areas, the N.C. Zoo, along with the Division of Land and Water Stewardship. Launched updated
mobile websites, expanded media outreach, grew internal newsletter and established successful cross-marketing efforts.
Mortons The Steakhouse: Established local steakhouse top-of-mind for Charlotte-area consumers through use of
innovative public relations tactics with little to no paid media foundation. PR efforts had restaurant consistently in print
and on radio and TV airways. Resulted in Mortons being named #1 Steak in daily newspaper and city magazine and top
producer for overall brand. My efforts were recognized by being named Mortons International Excellence in Print
Coverage PR award winner.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Taught surgeons effective marketing strategies to grow their practices as
a presenter at the AAOS national convention during a three-year program. Supplemented and supported this effort by
publishing marketing articles in Bulletin, the AAOS national magazine.
The Morehead Inn / The VanLandingham Estate: Used full spectrum of media channels to establish historic bed and
breakfast inns as premier regional power for weddings, holiday gatherings and top destinations for corporate meetings and
lodging that attracted a fabulous Southern Living review. The scope of the work included branding, brochures, event
promotions, advertising design and placement, media relations and community partnering. Executing our marketing plan
resulted in increased event bookings, media stories and lodging stays.
Beya Jewelry: Redefined brand for this high-end, non-traditional jewelry store to attract exclusive clientele through ad
design, magazine placement and public relations tactics. Saw 100% increase in positive media stories, including features
in areas top lifestyle magazines, and increased store traffic and community buzz. Designed and developed content for
national award-winning website.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
Includes healthcare, real estate, political, hotel/motel, nonprofit, hospitality, restaurant, retail, services, commercial,
industrial, construction, education, chemical, financial, merchant services, wedding, recycling, sports, law, military.

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts College of William & Mary Williamsburg, VA