RHONDA L. SEATON
San Jose
Summary
Strategic, high-impact Corporate Communications Executive with 20+ years leading comprehensive communication strategies for Fortune 500, media, nonprofit, and healthcare organizations. Proven success in elevating brand visibility, protecting reputation during crises, and driving executive thought leadership. Adept at aligning communication strategies with business goals, overseeing agency partnerships, and leading global teams. Trusted advisor to CEOs and executive leadership.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President, Corporate Communications
AccuWeather
10.2024 - Current
- Led corporate communications for the world's largest private weather and media company, impacting millions across the U.S. and globally.
- Served as strategic advisor to CEO and full C-suite; elevated trust and visibility during COVID-19 and company-wide transformations.
- Directed crisis response initiatives protecting corporate reputation through geopolitical, weather-related, and operational incidents.
- Aligned communication strategy with business objectives across internal, external, investor, and media channels.
- Introduced KPIs for communication effectiveness, resulting in 20% improvement in executive visibility across media platforms.
Director, Public Relations
AccuWeather
08.2017 - 09.2021
- Grew Tier 1 media placements by over 20% YoY; ensured 96% of coverage appeared in top outlets (e.g., NYT, Bloomberg, CNN).
- Developed voice-of-leadership op-eds and thought pieces published in national and international outlets.
- Directed global PR agency (Top 10 firm) to execute high-profile campaigns, media tours, and brand initiatives.
Executive Communicator / Speechwriter
AccuWeather
03.2017 - 08.2017
- Authored over 100 executive speeches and strategic content for global communications across North America, EU, and Asia.
- Managed internal communication for a 500-person global workforce, improving engagement and alignment.
- Oversaw CEO’s full communications portfolio: media interviews, company announcements, and keynote presentations.
Senior Director, Marketing Communications & Special Events
The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles
07.2005 - 06.2015
- Led full-scale marketing and PR operations, including branding, media, and donor communications.
- Produced high-profile events that raised millions in annual fundraising and improved public visibility.
- Built multi-channel campaigns that increased community engagement by 30% over three years.
Director, Provider Communications
WellPoint Health Networks / Blue Cross of California
06.1999 - 06.2000
- Managed enterprise-wide communications supporting provider networks and regulatory changes.
Manager, Corporate Communications
WellPoint Health Networks / Blue Cross of California
02.1997 - 05.1999
- Developed internal messaging strategy during major corporate transitions and integrations.
Senior Account Supervisor (last position held)
GCI Spindler (GCI Group, West Coast Office)
02.1990 - 02.1997
- Led national accounts and PR teams for Fortune 500 clients.
- Directed messaging strategies that resulted in consistent top-tier media placement.
Education
B.A. - Journalism
San Diego State University
01.1988
Skills
- Corporate Communications Strategy
- Crisis & Reputation Management
- Media Relations & Tier 1 Placements
- Executive Thought Leadership
- AI Skills for Enhanced Communications, Speed, Efficiency & Storytelling
- Stakeholder Communications
- Change Management & Internal Communications
- Public Relations Campaigns
- ESG & DEI Communications
- Global Communications Management
- Agency & Team Leadership
- Strategic Messaging & Brand Voice
- Content Strategy: Speeches, Op-eds, Press Materials
- Analytics & Communications ROI
Timeline
Vice President, Corporate Communications
AccuWeather
10.2024 - Current
Director, Public Relations
AccuWeather
08.2017 - 09.2021
Executive Communicator / Speechwriter
AccuWeather
03.2017 - 08.2017
Senior Director, Marketing Communications & Special Events
The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles
07.2005 - 06.2015
Director, Provider Communications
WellPoint Health Networks / Blue Cross of California
06.1999 - 06.2000
Manager, Corporate Communications
WellPoint Health Networks / Blue Cross of California
02.1997 - 05.1999
Senior Account Supervisor (last position held)
GCI Spindler (GCI Group, West Coast Office)
02.1990 - 02.1997
B.A. - Journalism
San Diego State University
Community Service
WPSU (PBS/NPR Affiliate), Advisory Board Member