Chase Barnes

About Chase Barnes

I am a strategic communications leader who builds trusted narratives, aligns stakeholders, and drives measurable public impact.With more than eight years of experience across government, nonprofit, international, and regulated industries, I lead integrated communications strategies that strengthen institutions and advance mission-driven outcomes. My work sits at the intersection of public affairs, brand strategy, digital engagement, and executive positioning.As Communications Strategist at MediaDesk, I lead communications initiatives for state agencies and nonprofit organizations, overseeing campaign strategy, messaging frameworks, multimedia production, stakeholder engagement, and performance measurement. I guide cross-functional teams from strategy through execution, translating complex public-interest issues into clear narratives that build trust and accountability.Previously, as Director of Public Relations at Agenda Global, I led communications strategy for federal, international, and private-sector stakeholders, managing budgets, KPIs, and multidisciplinary teams. Earlier experience in Germany strengthened my cross-cultural communications expertise.My leadership foundation was shaped by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and The Walt Disney Company, where I developed a performance-driven approach to team development and audience engagement.I was honored as 2025 NMPRSA Board Member of the Year and led a campaign recognized with a 2025 Silver Telly Award (General Public Service/PSA). I\'m also part of an Emmy Award–winning team and a team recognized with the 2026 Rust Award for Excellence in Ethical Business Practice.Beyond my professional role, I serve in executive leadership within the Albuquerque Community Foundation. As 2026 Chair of the Future Fund, a next-generation giving circle, I steward pooled philanthropic capital investing in high-impact nonprofits advancing education, economic mobility, health, and community development in Central New Mexico. I am also a founding board leader of Pride Circle, advancing equity and opportunity for LGBTQ+ communities through collective philanthropy and strategic grant making.I serve on the Board and Executive Committee of the Public Relations Society of America’s New Mexico Chapter, advancing ethical and strategic communications statewide.I am driven by a clear principle: strategic storytelling builds credibility, strengthens institutions, and empowers communities to thrive.

Experience

1. Communications Strategist

   Mediadesk

   Oct 2023 — Present · Albuquerque, NM, US

   Lead projects using industry-proven strategies for nonprofits andgovernment agencies to drive significant and rapid change.* Develop and execute campaigns, ensuring creative work aligns withgoals and creative communication needs effectively.* Conceptualize, write, and collaborate on high-quality marketing photoand video content, from brief setup to final production, in partnershipwith key stakeholders.* Consult with directors and mobilize teams to create compelling materialstailored to diverse audiences, including messaging and digital content.* Manage projects to ensure they stay on track, within budget, and meetscope requirements, working closely with the Operations Team.* Creates press releases, op-eds, and other media materials to push topress and media outlets, maintaining and developing strongrelationships with local and state media.* Supports the development and growth of a diverse range of colleaguesand collaborators.

Education

• New Mexico State University

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management

• Texas Tech University

  Master of Arts - MA, Strategic Communication and Innovation

Skills

• Training
• Opera
• Microsoft Office
• Social Media
• Food & Beverage
• Customer Service
• Open Table
• Event Planning