DEBORAH K. MERCADO
marketing, communications and strategic expertise that brings your message to life!
They say that in order to find fulfillment
in your work, you should first find your passion and then figure out a way to
parlay that into a career. I'm fortunate
to have done that very thing!
I love shaping a message or a story in such a way that it draws the audience in and causes them to respond. Storytelling is so important in conveying your message, and it's at the heart of who I am. Once the content is finalized, I can apply effective design in order to maximize its impact.
I also love building community ...
with my constituents, with my team,
and with all those I come into contact. Incorporating professionalism and affability, I have developed great relationships.
I am a life-long learner, and am
constantly researching how to do
new things to stretch my skills.
I subscribe to training resources and regularly take time to expand my skillset.
My work ethic is unmatchable.
As I tenaciously shape content,
apply creative design, and research
best delivery methods, I often
lose track of time. That's the true test
that you are working in your "sweet spot."
I hope to talk with you soon to see if
I can partner with your organization in communicating your message and reaching your intended audience.
Operations & Budget Manager, School of Theology & Seattle Pacific Seminary (2021-2024)
Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA – Nationally ranked, private Christian liberal arts university
Responsible for all elements of SOT/SPS operations, including but not limited to supporting Advisory Board activities, planning and executing many events, promoting SOT/SPS academic lectures, writing minutes for Advisory Board and SOT Faculty meetings, sending eNewsletters to various audiences to promote engagement, managing and reporting on SOT budgets, and supervising student workers. Researched and established tracking mechanisms for alumni. Fostered and supported effective community-building across the school, from advisory board members, faculty, staff, and students. Awarded campus-wide Staff of the Month in May 2024.
Production Assistant (2017-Present)
Northwest Church, Lynnwood, WA – Local non-denominational church of 500+
Responsible for shaping content and graphic design for multiple delivery modalities. Weekly printed bulletin and inserts that highlight and promote upcoming church events and activities. Regular email communication pieces to support ministry initiatives. Develop presentations in the support of Biblical teaching. Strategize and implement new website/blog marketing efforts to reach internal and external audiences. Develop script concepts and conduct video shoots in the creation of informational videos. Project management of concurrent digital and print media projects, in partnership with other team members.
Marketing & Communications Specialist (2007-Present)
Show & Tell Productions, Bothell, WA – an independent visual communications company
Consult with clients regarding marketing initiatives and priorities. Develop and edit content for print and digital media. Design customized web and printed collateral for a variety of clients in the non-profit and business sectors. Develop branding and communication pieces, including the design of new logos and masthead. Responsible for the development of marketing videos, including script writing, voiceover talent acquisition, recording direction, and video editing.
Marketing & Communications Specialist / Marketing Coordinator (2008-2013)
CRISTA Ministries, Seattle, WA – a non-profit, service-oriented organization reaching over 8 million annually
Developed marketing goals with division leaders, identifying themes and managing timelines. Partnered with ministry leaders in order to shape the direction of each marketing or fundraising initiative, including interviewing, writing, editing, graphic design, web design and content, photography, and presentation development. Communication vehicles included newsletters, magazines, appeal letters, direct mail postcards, and websites. Developed video productions in support of division goals, from concept development, script writing, lighting set up, camera operations, video direction, and post-production editing. Completed projects in timely manner by coordinating with clients, stakeholders, and external vendors.
Production Assistant (1998-2005)
Lake Avenue Church, Pasadena, CA – 5,000 member non-denominational church
Designed customized, graphics-driven presentations to maximize the message to 5,000 on a weekly basis. Directed a creative team in the concept development, writing, editing, design, and production of monthly direct mail pieces to acknowledge donors and increase revenue. Ensured organizational branding and clear communication of mission.
Development Associate (1994-1997)
San Gabriel Valley Medical Center Foundation, San Gabriel, CA – Fundraising arm of full-service medical center
Designed and managed donor database. Established fundraising structure and donor levels for special events. Planned and coordinated all areas of fundraising events, including theme development, committee leadership, volunteer acquisition and management, event benchmarks and timelines, and execution of events from start to finish.
