Baker Public Relations, a full-service public relations agency based in Albany, N.Y., announced it has added longtime PR executive, James Smith, as vice president. This is the first major senior management hire for the firm, now bringing the total number of employees for the New York State-certified Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) to eight.
Jim brings a wealth of journalism, branding, marketing, corporate, government and strategic communications experience to Baker Public Relations, having worked in the communications industry for more than 20 years. His career began as a writer and columnist for The Saratogian, eventually working as the business editor of The Record.
Jim later held various public relations positions with Albany Medical Center, Special Olympics New York, New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) and since 2008, served as VP at a full-service strategic communications and public affairs firm located in Albany, working with a broad range of clients, including those in the public protection, education, energy and business sectors.
“This is an exciting time for the agency as our business has grown substantially in the past year,” said Megan Baker, president & CEO at Baker Public Relations. “With the hiring of Jim, we will continue our focus on delivering clients hands-on account management, professionalism and exceptional results. Jim fits our culture perfectly and will offer tremendous value to our clients and play an integral role in the future success of the firm. We look forward to his contributions as he has developed and managed an impressive variety of successful communications programs.”
“I am very excited to join Baker Public Relations and Megan Baker’s outstanding team,” Smith said. “Baker PR’s client base aligns perfectly with my experience in the industry, and I am eager to work with Megan and her team as they continue to provide clients with great service and grow as an organization.”
As VP, Jim’s responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day activities including budgeting, planning and staff development, client account work, development and execution of integrated communications campaigns, business development and more.