Ben Navratil
Strategic-minded and adaptable communications leader with 15+ years of experience executing public relations plans, creating relatable content, building partnerships, & crafting branded storytelling. Proven ability to develop engaging narratives & collaborate across multi-functional teams to enhance brand visibility. Adept at prioritization, multi-tasking, & leading cross-functional teams to ensure projects are completed to exceed standards & expectations.
2021 - 2025
US Army
Army Futures Command
-
Collaborated with dozens of technical experts to translate complex technological concepts and jargon into easy-to-understand messaging accessible to various audiences.
-
Designed and executed a comprehensive internal communications strategy, improving employee engagement and alignment by 10% among 300+ staff.
-
Directed cross-functional teams to execute multichannel campaigns, collaborating with stakeholders to enhance public awareness and align messaging with strategic priorities.
-
Enhanced internal communications workflows by 10% by developing process improvements and creating information flow charts, increasing collaboration across departments.
-
Crafted executive-level messaging for C-suite stakeholders, including speeches, briefs, and social media tactics, aligning executive communications with strategic business goals.
2020 - 2021
USAA
Corporate Communications
-
Directed a large-scale information campaign on veterans’ health; leveraged owned, earned, and paid media, reaching over 1 million external and over 5,000 internal viewers.
-
Led a high-profile media roundtable, advising a senior executive on media engagement, coordinating with over a dozen media outlets, and tracking metrics.
-
Led a comprehensive internal communication plan to support change management, empower managers to foster a cohesive, inclusive workplace and advocate company values
-
Built partnerships to amplify community outreach programs, fostering inclusivity and engagement while supporting community well-being initiatives.
-
Led a cross-functional team to implement an internal communication plan, which increased awareness and participation by 15% through targeted messaging and engagement.
2018 - 2020
US Army
24th Theater Public Affairs Support Element
-
Implemented crisis communication strategies, managing messaging for 500+ stakeholders and responding to 50+ media inquiries, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
-
Trained over 1,000 soldiers in media engagement and communication, enhancing representation and public relations; developed a positive rapport with media personnel
-
Designed and led advanced communications training programs, resulting in increased cross-functional team engagement and consistent messaging across all channels.