Dana Conrado
Ottawa,ON
Summary
Experienced editor and writer with over 16 years of professional experience translating complex ideas into clear, engaging, and purpose-driven content. Background spans business development, program creation, fundraising, community engagement, and public-facing communications across nonprofit, government-adjacent, and international environments. Known for strong editorial judgment, audience-focused writing, and the ability to refine content for clarity, tone, and impact—without reliance on formal education credentials.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Development & Integration Specialist
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
- Authored and edited funding applications, program descriptions, impact summaries, and stakeholder communications.
- Developed written materials that directly contributed to successful funding outcomes and program adoption.
- Created employer-facing and participant-facing content supporting workforce and employability initiatives.
- Edited internal documentation to support reporting, compliance, and long-term program sustainability.
- Presented written and scripted content at national and international events, including a professional summit.
- Nonprofit and community programs | 7+ Years
Program Creator & Narrative Lead
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
- Designed and documented a talent-matching venture later used as a model for an externally funded program ($1.5 million).
- Wrote foundational content including program frameworks, promotional messaging, and explanatory materials.
- Collaborated with partners to refine language and positioning for public and institutional audiences.
- Ensured messaging aligned with funding criteria, community needs, and organizational goals.
- Talent matching and employability Initiatives
Editor & Content Writer (Independent / Project-Based)
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
- Edited and rewrote reports, proposals, promotional materials, and internal documents to improve clarity, flow, and professionalism.
- Adapted content for diverse audiences including funders, government partners, employers, and community stakeholders.
- Transformed technical or program-heavy content into accessible, reader-friendly language.
- Ensured consistency of tone, terminology, and messaging across multi-document projects.
- Reviewed content for grammar, structure, accuracy, and alignment with strategic objectives.
Business Owner & Communications Lead
Cézanne Skin Spa
09.1996 - 10.2012
- Wrote, edited, and managed all business communications including client materials, marketing content, contracts, and operational documentation.
- Maintained brand voice and messaging consistency across platforms and audiences.
- Negotiated and communicated with clients, partners, and suppliers using clear, professional written communication.
- Balanced strategic messaging with practical, client-centered language.
- 16 Years
Skills
- Developmental and line editing
- Copywriting and revision
- Storytelling and narrative development
- Report and proposal writing
- Marketing content creation
- Documentation of programs and policies
- Stakeholder and audience adaptation
- English-French Context Awareness
- Event coordination
- Brand promotion
- Organizational skills
- Community relationship building
- Business correspondence
Languages
English (Fluent)
French (Working Proficiency)
Writing Formats & Content Types
- Articles and web content
- Reports and briefs
- Grant and funding applications
- Program descriptions
- Marketing and promotional copy
- Scripts and presentation text
- Internal policies and guides
- Email and stakeholder communications
Professional Approach
- Experience-first, results-driven methodology
- Strong editorial discretion and attention to detail
- Collaborative and deadline-oriented
- Comfortable working with sensitive, high-stakes content
- Adept at revising existing material or building content from concept stage
Timeline
Business Development & Integration Specialist
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
Program Creator & Narrative Lead
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
Editor & Content Writer (Independent / Project-Based)
Valcartier Military Family Resource Center
01.2018 - 09.2024
Business Owner & Communications Lead
Cézanne Skin Spa
09.1996 - 10.2012