
Kyiakhalid Ruiz using nostalgia to promote background and experience.
Confidence that leads, competence that exceeds.
Explore my professional assignments and educational achievements by clicking on the titles in the accordions below.
Beyond my expertise in marketing, communications, and brand management, I’ve developed a strong set of transferable skills over the past 26 years, including negotiation, teamwork, collaboration, active listening, and innovative thinking. This unique blend of hard and soft skills makes me a valuable asset to any team.
Click on the buttons to download my résumés (“boring” traditional B/W version or “creative” Scrabble version.)
Experience

06/2022 – 03/2024
- Directed national communications strategy advancing equity and cultural inclusion.
- Supervised staff and consultants, strengthening team capacity through mentorship.
- Managed conferences & community events engaging funders, policymakers, and civic leaders.
- Built partnerships with media, government, and philanthropy to secure resources.
- Produced strategic policy briefs, reports, and executive presentations to inform senior leaders and influence civic and industry conversations.

12/2020 – 12/2021
(Short-term contract with Stefanini Group for a unique opportunity to work on a variety of projects that tap into a broad range of communications disciplines to support the SF Fed’s ITS Group.)
Demonstrated proficiency in design programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign,…), copywriting, presentation design, and data analysis to stabilize existing IT communications plans by creating impactful content for different channels and audiences.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Translated complex policy and technical information into clear communications for executive leadership and staff.
- Produced digital/print materials and reports supporting executive leadership in articulating strategic vision.
- Coordinated internal and external events, ensuring inclusive representation and accessibility.
- Provided strategic communications counsel to strengthen organizational effectiveness and employee engagement.

08/2019 – 12/2020
Key member of the Shaklee Sales Team responsible for driving sales, member enrollment and distributor sponsoring in the United States and Canada.
- Directed communications strategy across North America with emphasis on culturally relevant and multilingual outreach.
- Oversaw multilingual content production, ensuring cultural alignment and accessibility.
- Managed cross-functional teams to deliver events, campaigns, and community-building initiatives.
- Developed digital platforms and knowledge-sharing tools to expand access to organizational resources.

02/2018 – 06/2019
- Directed communications across print, digital, and social platforms to engage civic and community stakeholders.
- Managed $100K+ revenue-generating publications and digital campaigns while balancing financial oversight with mission goals.
- Built partnerships with civic leaders, media platforms, and cultural institutions to strengthen community engagement.
- Supervised staff and interns to deliver strategic campaigns, public programs, and publications.

09/1999 – 08/2014
- Directed cultural programming and large-scale events in partnership with artists, institutions and civic stakeholders for clients spanning technology, finance, healthcare, and the arts.
- Managed budgets, contracts, and project timelines to ensure accountability and high-quality outcomes.
- Secured partnerships with Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations to fund cultural and community initiatives.
- Produced innovative collaborations that amplified diverse artistic voices and expanded access to cultural experiences.
Education
2014 – 2015
Business Administration and Management (Social Entrepreneurship)
The Hult MBA with a minor in Social Entrepreneurship combines a comprehensive business education with specialized training in creating sustainable social impact. Designed for aspiring leaders passionate about driving positive change, this program integrates core MBA coursework with innovative approaches to solving global challenges. Students gain practical skills in entrepreneurship, leadership, and corporate social responsibility, preparing them to launch ventures that prioritize both profit and purpose in today’s competitive business environment.

1994 – 1999
American Studies
American Studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the culture, history, literature, politics, and society of the United States. It explores the diverse experiences and identities within American society, offering insights into its development, values, and impact on global affairs. Through critical analysis and comparative perspectives, American Studies seeks to understand the complexities of American identity, both past and present.
2008 – 2014
Real Estate
Merritt College in Oakland, California, offers a comprehensive Real Estate program designed to prepare students for careers in the real estate industry. The program includes courses that cover real estate principles, practices, finance, appraisal, property management, and law. Students can earn an Associate in Science degree or a Certificate of Achievement in Real Estate, providing the education and training needed to pursue roles such as real estate agents, brokers, appraisers, and property managers. The curriculum also meets the educational requirements for the California real estate salesperson and broker licensing exams.



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