SANTA MONICA, CA. () - The
National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences today announced that it has named Ron W. Roecker as its Vice President, Communications. Roecker, who recently has served as the Senior
Director of Communications, will continue reporting directly to Neil Portnow, President of the Recording Academy.
"Ron's proven success leading the Recording Academy's communications efforts over the years has earned him this promotion," said Portnow. "He brings a depth of professional experience, a wealth of valuable relationships and an infectious vitality to the table. He has been a trusted advisor and will continue to guide us with strategic communication programs that are vital to the success of our organization."
Roecker joined the Recording Academy in May 2001. With more than 12 years of experience in marketing, advertising and public relations, his department is responsible for being the "voice" of the Recording Academy and all of its related activities — including the GRAMMY Foundation, the MusiCares Foundation, the Latin Recording Academy, and the GRAMMY telecasts.
Roecker oversees all media relations and crisis communications for the organization, its 12 regional Chapters and its foundations. He also is a key Academy manager of relationships with CBS Television Network, production partners, record labels, artist management and recording artists.
Recently, Roecker helped create and successfully launch the Academy's first national consumer education and awareness campaign, "What's The Download" (www.WhatsTheDownload.com), which tackles issues surrounding illegal music downloading. The second phase of the campaign will launch in September 2004.
Prior to joining the Recording Academy, Roecker was Vice President, Brand Marketing & Creative Strategy for Ketchum Los Angeles, including Ketchum Entertainment Marketing (KEM). Formerly, he was Management Supervisor of Public Relations & Marketing at MS&L, Inc., and prior to that held public relations and marketing positions at Bernstein-Rein Advertising and R&D Group, both in Kansas City, Mo. He has consulted for clients including Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Levi's, Nestle, Nike, NBA, Mattel, Travelocity, Columbia Tri-Star, Orbitz.com and The Salvation Army.
Roecker also has taught at the University of Southern California, teaching Public Relations Writing, and Media Communications. He earned a B.S. in Business Communications and Journalism from the University of Kansas.
