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MICHELLE KEEFE

EDITOR • WRITER • CREATIVE

SUMMARY

 

I have two decades of experience as an editor, a proofreader, and a writer for ad agencies and in-house marketing departments at Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies. As a former journalist, my curiosity and attention to detail enable me to communicate complex topics to a broad audience and explore key components of a brand’s story – from its mission and people to its global impact. I believe clarity, consistency, and tone are essential to the success of every marketing campaign.

 

EXPERIENCE

 

Marketing Communications Specialist, CNA Insurance, October 2020-November 2023 

  • Helped extend market reach of Marine and Ocean Cargo insurance coverage by developing copy for a multichannel campaign – including a brochure and all accompanying elements.

  • Edited and fact checked insurance guides, white papers, brochures, blog articles, and sell sheets for grammar, spelling, consistency, and adherence to AP/company style guide.

  • Wrote CSR ads showcasing CNA’s commitment to philanthropy.

  • Updated brochures and sell sheets to align with new branding.

  • Ghostwrote industry blog articles based on source material and interviews with contributing authors.

 

Copywriter, Echo Global Logistics, July 2018-August 2019

  • Lead copywriter for Fortune 1000 logistics and supply chain management company.

  • Created sell sheets, case studies, website copy, press releases, and articles that informed a broad audience of investors, clients, and carrier partners.

  • Ensured all media mentions were on brand and on topic.

  • Interviewed subject matter experts and sales representatives to create copy for external communications and internal social media platform. 

 

Copywriter, WunderLand/Advanced Clinical/Advanced Resources, June 2017-September 2017 (contract)

  • Lead copywriter for branding and website overhaul of Chicago-area staffing agency, The Advanced Group of Companies.

  • Wrote and edited over 90 website pages for WunderLand, including bio blurbs, company mission, and homepage copy.

  • Adopted brand tone across all pages to ensure consistency and adherence to client style.

  • Collaborated with team members to implement SEO keywords and phrases.  

 

Etsy Shop Owner, CuratedVintageCloset, July 2017-present

  • Photograph products and create copy for listings, including product names, blurbs, and item details.

  • Package and mail products based on customer specifications.    

  • I have a Star Seller rating, with over 500 five-star reviews based on quality, communication, and customer service.

Writer & Proofreader, Jacobs & Clevenger, 2011-2016

  • Generated SEO-driven content articles and topics for several industries, including auto and navigation technology, utility and energy companies, marketing, B2B and B2C, and more. 

  • Proofread all print and online materials for content, spelling, grammar, consistency, and adherence to client and agency style.

  • Supervised freelancers for adherence to client and agency style.

  • Assisted production artists with QC of logos, branding, and other visuals to align with client specifications.

  • Clients have included Ulta, Phantom Fireworks, Nokia, iPay, ProfitStars, HERE, Navteq, Pacific Gas and Electric, Humana, Alliant Credit Union, and a handful of automotive brands including Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Nissan, Acura, Chevrolet, and Lincoln.

Proofreader, Upshot, 2010-2011

  • Proofread all print and online materials for content, spelling, grammar, consistency, and adherence to client and agency style.

  • Checked foreign language copy against translation.

  • Clients have included Disney, Crown Liquors, Budweiser, Corona, Procter and Gamble, Kraft, and Hilton.

Freelance Editor, 2008-present

  • Edited Disabled Fables, written by local award-winning humorist Dan Montville.

  • Edited Wisdom to Heal and Love Again, a self-help e-book written by Georgia Roulo, winner of a National Indie Excellence Award and U.S. Supreme Court-ruled creative champion.

  • Edit and offer feedback pertaining to tone, clarity, and content for various writing projects including novels, essays, business correspondence, marketing copy, and more.

 

Freelance Journalist, Forest Park Review, 2006-2010                                             

  • Researched and fact checked various topics ranging from local politics to resident profiles.

  • Covered local current events while meeting weekly deadlines.

  • Interviewed elected Forest Park officials including the mayor and village commissioners.

 

VOLUNTEER

 

Publicist, Chicago Golden Gloves boxing tournament, 2014-2016                              

  • Worked with press contacts to gain coverage of the 2015 tournament.

  • Coordinated interviews with journalists, boxers, and special guests.

 

INTERESTS

 

Most people know me as a pretty big fan of David Bowie. My favorite writers include Roald Dahl, John Steinbeck, and Margaret Atwood. I’m a textile/fiber artist, with a special interest in embroidery, hand quilting, needlepoint, and applique.

 

EDUCATION

 

Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, 2006

  • B.A. in English, minor in Comparative Literature

  • Centers for Academic Programs Abroad (CAPA), Florence, Italy

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