Sara Parker

About Sara Parker

I’m a strategist, a storyteller, and someone who thrives in the in-between spaces.Between complexity and clarity. Between research and intuition. Between the wild ideas and the structured plans that make them real.I landed in the great state of strategy unexpectedly - by way of a degree in Political Engagement and Attachment Theory, launching two nonprofits, working in NYC politics, and then a crash course in growing a world-renowned brand by failing fast and trusting the data as Head of Consumer Innovation & Engagement at Charity Navigator. Since then, I’ve worked with brands like Microsoft, Airbnb, Droga5, IBM, Google.org, Edward Jones, The Gates Foundation, Scholastic, DonorsChoose, and more to shape messaging, build brand identities, and tell stories that resonate.Most recently, I was Associate Director of Creative Strategy at The Story Lab, where I worked with LG Electronics to push for smarter, sharper narratives - helping people understand not just what a product does, but why it matters. Now, I work with brands - freelance or fractional - that need strategic clarity and a fresh perspective.What I do best:🧗‍ Simplifying the complex. Translating research-heavy, jargon-filled ideas into messaging that actually connects.🧗‍ Finding the story in the data. Using insights to craft compelling brand narratives that drive action.🧗‍ Helping brands evolve. Bridging where a brand has been to where it’s going—without losing its essence.🧗‍ Bringing clarity to the messy. Untangling big, multi-layered problems and turning them into actionable strategies.🧗‍ Defining what good strategy looks like. Whether in rapid growth, a new category, or a changing landscape.When I’m not working, you can find me somewhere outside - open water swimming, volunteering with local conservation groups, or writing about how we live in reciprocity with the land and water. I live in a valley between the mountains in Western Massachusetts, where a two-finger lift off the steering wheel is the local “hello.”If you’re tackling a challenge and could use a strategic partner who can cut through the noise, get to the heart of the story, and build something meaningful - let’s talk. I’d love to hear what you’re working on.Skills: Brand strategy, messaging & positioning, verbal identity, content strategy, audience research, consumer journey mapping, qualitative & quantitative research, workshop facilitation, copywriting, communications planning, and focus group facilitation.

Experience

1. Climate Reality Leader

   The Climate Reality Project

   Apr 2021 — Present · NY, US

   Personally trained by former US Vice President Al Gore, as part of a global network of activists working to solve the climate crisis.#LeadOnClimate

Education

• New York University

  Individualized Major, Gallatin School of Individualized Study