About me

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I’m Nicolle Picray, the founder of Advocate and Accelerate and a Senior Communications leader with a deep focus on Crisis Communications, Public Relations, Strategic Corporate Communications, and Brand. Currently, I serve as the Head of Marketing and Communications at Advocate & Accelerate, where I lead initiatives that drive brand messaging and communication strategies across various industries.

Before this role, I spent nearly a decade at Pella Corporation in roles such as Head of External Communications and Talent Brand. There, I led media relations strategies for consumer, luxury, and trade brands while managing employer brand messaging. I also worked closely with our leadership team to navigate crisis communications and synchronize priority messaging across business units. Supporting C-suite executives in media engagements and ensuring smooth stakeholder communication were key elements of my role.

Earlier in my career, I founded Little Bird Marketing & Media, a marketing consultancy that specialized in integrated communications strategies and proactive reputation management. In 2013, my consultancy was acquired, which was a milestone moment that underscored my passion for helping businesses optimize their digital presence and corporate communications.

Beyond my work, I’m committed to supporting my community. Since May 2022, I’ve served on the board of the Pella Opera House, working with fellow board members to preserve this historic venue and promote a wide range of events for our community.

I’m a proud graduate of Iowa State University with a B.S. in Public Relations. My journey began at The Des Moines Register, where I worked as an Advertising Account Executive. Today, my background in crisis communications, public relations, and brand strategy allows me to create effective, results-driven marketing and communications strategies that help businesses thrive.