DEBORAH TAKAHARA
Castle Rock
Summary
Accomplished and strategic communications executive with over20 years of experience in leading high-profile media relations, crisis communication, issues management, and executive-level communication strategies with emphasis in Law Enforcement. Proven track record in driving brand growth and innovative marketing strategies. Expertise in leading cross-functional teams and executing successful campaigns that boost market presence. Demonstrated ability in strategic planning and fostering strong client relationships. Proven success in collaborating across large, complex organizations, advising senior leadership, and developing comprehensive communications plans. Strong background in advising governing boards, leading teams, and managing large budgets in fast-paced, mission-driven environments.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Public Information Director
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office
04.2023 - Current
- Led the development and implementation of a comprehensive social media strategy, resulting in a1,000% increase in social media engagement and significantly expanding the agency’s digital footprint
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Spearheaded cost-saving initiatives that reduced overtime expenses by50%, while maintaining a robust public outreach and media relations presence
- Provided executive coaching and training on speech writing and on-camera presentation skills, enabling law enforcement executives to deliver clear, impactful messages to both internal and external stakeholders
- Directed crisis communications, coordinating with local media and ensuring timely, accurate dissemination of information during emergencies and public safety events
- Enhanced media relations by developing key partnerships and positioning the Sheriff’s Office as a trusted source for news, driving positive coverage in local and regional outlets
- Worked directly with senior leadership to align communication strategies with departmental goals, ensuring consistent and effective messaging across all platforms
- Coordinated with marketing team members to align web content with overall marketing strategies and goals.
Public Affairs Consultant
Self-Employed
01.2020 - Current
- Advised senior leadership teams at law enforcement agencies and public organizations on crisis communication, media relations, and strategic outreach
- Developed and implemented social media campaigns that drove significant increases in engagement and awareness from the ground up
- Provided executive coaching for on-camera interviews and presentations, ensuring leaders effectively communicated with both internal and external stakeholders
- Managed multiple client relationships and coordinated with various departments to integrate communication strategies and align messaging with organizational goals
Public Affairs Specialist
United States Attorney's Office-Colorado
03.2022 - 03.2023
- Led the development and execution of a comprehensive strategic communications plan, enhancing national media coverage and raising public awareness on key issues, such as fentanyl and ghost guns
- Served as the primary media spokesperson, effectively managing media relations and coordinating interviews for leadership, ensuring the accurate and timely dissemination of information to the public
- Developed crisis communication strategies and issues management plans to address emerging challenges
- Increased engagement through social media platforms, growing followers by20% on Twitter, and successfully launched Facebook and YouTube accounts to support public outreach
- Advised senior leadership on media and communication strategies, helping shape public discourse on critical legal issues
- Invited by the Department of Justice to teach a specialized class on media and social media strategies to U.S. Attorneys from across the nation
- Earned the United States Attorney's Award of Excellence for exemplary communication efforts
News Reporter/Anchor
Various Broadcast Networks
01.1992 - 03.2022
- Enhanced live news coverage by providing real-time updates and analysis during significant events.
- Uploaded breaking news and updates to organization's social media and website accounts. Produced and delivered high-profile investigative and breaking news reports to thousands of viewers, maintaining accuracy under pressure
- Developed and maintained relationships with public officials, law enforcement, and other key stakeholders building a trusted network that facilitated accurate and timely reporting
- Enhanced audience engagement through both traditional media and digital platforms, reaching a broad and diverse viewership
- Led a team of50+ staff in creating impactful news stories and executive-level communications that resonated with a diverse audience
- Directed media outreach initiatives and partnered with Metro Denver Crime Stoppers, driving a20% increase in tips and an18% rise in arrests
- Successfully managed social media and online presence for the station, engaging over31,000 followers on Facebook and6,000 on Twitter
- Received multiple prestigious awards, including seven Emmy Awards for exceptional reporting and newscast leadership
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Social Ecology, Business Management, Criminal Justice
University of California, Irvine
12.1991
Skills
- Marketing
- Strategic Media Relations
- Crisis Communications
- Issues Management
- Public Relations Campaigns
- Messaging Development
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Leadership & Team Building
- Budget Management
- Social Media Strategy
- Internal Communications
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Crisis & Change Management
- Speech Writing
- Media Spokesperson
Volunteer & Community Involvement
- Public speaker at large-scale events and active volunteer for organizations, including Denver Police Foundation, American Heart Association, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
- Advocate for law enforcement, mental health awareness, and charitable initiatives benefiting local communities.
Awards
Board Member, Denver Crime Stoppers (2019 – Present), Founder, Behind the Badge Police Calendar (2016 – Present), President, Citizens Appreciate Police (2015 –2022), Emmy Awards (2006 –2022), Seven-time recipient for excellence in reporting and newscast., Edward R. Murrow Award (2018), Outstanding Newscast, Douglas County Sheriff's Office “Pillar and Precision” Journalism Award, Voted Best Anchor by Colorado Broadcasters Association, Society of Professional Journalists Award for Sports Reporting
Timeline
Public Information Director
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office
04.2023 - Current
Public Affairs Specialist
United States Attorney's Office-Colorado
03.2022 - 03.2023
Public Affairs Consultant
Self-Employed
01.2020 - Current
News Reporter/Anchor
Various Broadcast Networks
01.1992 - 03.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Social Ecology, Business Management, Criminal Justice
University of California, Irvine
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