Karen Jones Beaudry, MBA

Communication & Engagement Manager @ Wurkwel Ventures, LLC

About

Corporate communications leader with experience advising executives, shaping internal and external messaging, and strengthening stakeholder trust across regulated and growth-focused environments. I specialize in executive communications, internal alignment, and reputation management, ensuring organizations communicate clearly during periods of change, growth, and increased visibility.My background includes investor relations support, cross-functional communications strategy, and translating complex business priorities into messaging that drives clarity and engagement. I also bring experience integrating sustainability and corporate responsibility initiatives into broader corporate narratives.

Country

United States

City

Chicago

Industry

Public Relations & Communications

Skill

Brand Communication, Public Relations, Crisis Communications, Change Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Communications, Internal Communications, Communications, ESG , Marketing Strategy, Social Impact, Event Management, Nonprofit Organizations, Fundraising, Event Planning, Social Media, Volunteer Management, Public Speaking, Community Outreach, Mandarin

Experience

Communication & Engagement Manager

Wurkwel Ventures, LLC

2024-8 - Present · 2 yrs 2 mos

Chicago, IL

Lead corporate communications strategy across a multi-entity portfolio, aligning executive messaging, internal communications, and external brand visibility. Serve as strategic communications advisor to the CEO and senior leadership on executive communications, ensuring clarity and consistency across investor, employee, and stakeholder audiences. Own internal communications initiatives, strengthening alignment during periods of growth and operational change. Develop strategic messaging frameworks that translate complex business priorities into clear, actionable communication. Partner cross-functionally with operations, sales, and sustainability teams to ensure messaging supports broader organizational objectives. Oversee reputation management efforts, including external announcements, thought leadership positioning, and brand narrative development.

Investor Relations and Community Engagement Analyst

GATX

2022-8 - 2024-7 · 2 yrs

Chicago, IL

Supported executive and investor communications within a publicly traded, highly regulated environment. Contributed to earnings materials, shareholder communications, and executive messaging for investor-facing initiatives. Partnered with finance and leadership teams to translate financial performance and corporate strategy into clear stakeholder communications. Assisted in managing external communications impacting investors, analysts, and community stakeholders.

Development Specialist

ETHS Foundation

2019-11 - 2022-8 · 2 yrs 10 mos

Evanston, IL

Led communications and engagement initiatives supporting fundraising campaigns and community partnerships. Partnered with executive leadership to develop messaging for donor outreach, sponsorship initiatives, and high-visibility events. Produced campaign materials and stakeholder communications aligned with organizational growth objectives. Strengthened long-term donor and corporate relationships through strategic outreach and consistent engagement.

Manager of Development

Adoption Center of Illinois at Family Resource Center

2014-12 - 2019-5 · 4 yrs 6 mos

Chicago, IL

Led strategic communications and fundraising initiatives aligned with organizational revenue goals. Partnered with executive leadership to develop campaign messaging, sponsorship outreach, and donor engagement strategies. Managed departmental planning and budget execution in support of long-term growth objectives. Strengthened corporate and foundation partnerships through targeted outreach and relationship management.

Family Reunification Specialist

Heartland Alliance

2013 - 2014 · 1 yr

Greater Chicago Area

Coordinated complex, multi-agency case management within a federally regulated environment. Analyzed detailed documentation to support reunification recommendations and stakeholder decision-making. Partnered with government and nonprofit entities to improve service delivery processes.