Senior Leadership

Matt Caiola is the Chief Executive Officer of 5W and is responsible for setting the firm's strategic vision and leading its growth, culture, and client impact across the agency.

Under Matt's leadership, 5W has been recognized as one of Inc. Magazine's Best Workplaces, a Top 50 Global PR Agency by PRovoke Media, and a top three New York City PR agency by O'Dwyer's, in addition to earning multiple American Business Awards, including a Stevie Award for PR Agency of the Year. Matt has also been honored individually as Communications and PR Executive of the Year by the American Business Association and named among PRDaily's Top Communicators of the Year.

A key force behind 5W's evolution for more than a decade, Matt has guided the agency through sustained double-digit growth while expanding its capabilities and talent as it has grown into a top 10 independently owned PR firm in the United States. He plays an active role in shaping long-term strategy, advising senior clients, and ensuring excellence and consistency across all engagements.

A trusted advisor to leading organizations, founders, and public figures, Matt leads teams responsible for managing reputation, navigating complex crisis and issues environments, launching new companies and technologies, and executing integrated B2B and B2C campaigns. His leadership emphasizes disciplined strategy, creative excellence, and accountability in an increasingly complex communications landscape.

Matt holds a bachelor's degree from Iona College and serves on the board of Little Baby Face Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of children born with facial deformities through world-class reconstructive surgery.

Erica is a seasoned HR practitioner and strategic partner who has spent 15 years leading people teams across the retail, healthcare, and creative communications sectors. She is passionate about the employee experience, ensuring talent and business strategies align, and building policies that are progressive and inclusive for all employees.

Peter has spent more than 20 years building and leading finance teams, bringing a highly strategic and hands-on operational approach to the finance organization for impressive results in fast-paced environments, from start-ups to acquisitions, to large organizations with diversified businesses.

He excels in strategic planning and analysis, cost reduction and revenue generation - accomplished through building and motivating high performing teams, effectively partnering with business leadership, and creative problem solving to drive growth and profitability. He has a reputation for being level-headed under pressure, and a collaborative team leader who builds and motivates teams to achieve aggressive financial objectives and the highest integrity reporting.

As US Chief Financial Officer, he led Hill & Knowlton's team of Finance experts in the US. This included leading strategically-important profit increasing projects, taking learnings from across its international footprint and sharing best practice.

As WW Controller, Peter led H&K's Accounting experts, focusing on the financial integrity of H+K's books, ensuring processes are in place for proper controls and adherence to SOX guidelines. Based in New York, he was with H+K for four and a half years. Peter was previously at Time Inc., where he spent over 20 years in the media industry in various senior financial roles supporting iconic brands such as TIME, FORTUNE, and SPORTS ILLUSTRATED.

Rob Ford is a Managing Partner and Executive Vice President at 5W where he leads the Corporate Communications division as well as the Crisis Communications practice and helps direct the core operations of the firm day-to-day. Rob leads a team serving clients across real estate, financial services, fintech, enterprise technology, AI, legal services, health care, and defense tech - bringing senior-level strategic thinking and hands-on campaign leadership to every engagement.

At 5W, Rob shapes the firm's strategic direction across multiple dimensions: reimagining service offerings, driving AI-enablement, defining company culture and guiding principles, and sharpening the firm's digital communications and marketing. He is the architect of 5W's crisis preparedness framework and a trusted advisor to C-suite leaders on crisis readiness, response strategy, and executive media training. Rob is a crisis strategist and brand protection leader who helps high-growth and established companies navigate their most critical moments - from ransomware attacks and data breaches to government investigations, high-stakes litigation, and activist investor proxy fights.

His expertise is built on a foundation that spans corporate communications, public affairs, and advocacy with experience shaping public opinion at both the local and national levels for Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, and nonprofits across industries including telecom, agriculture, biotech, retail, and defense.

Rob has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Delaware.

Leigh Ann Ambrosi leads the Consumer Lifestyle division at 5W. With over 25 years of experience, she is a seasoned expert in brand development, publicity, and media relations. Whether shaping strategy, restructuring workflow, handling multiple clients or managing budgets big or small, she effects change with a constant eye towards producing results.

Prior to joining the 5W team, Leigh Ann was Executive Vice President, and Chief Administrative Officer at Magrino Public Relations for over nine years. While at Magrino, she oversaw the Consumer and Food, Wine, & Spirits divisions, and managed the operations of the agency. She was responsible for signing new clients, strengthening existing client relationships and programs, and providing oversight for brands including Martha Stewart, Hunter Douglas, SCOUT, The Ranch, Vaughan, Flybird Cocktails, and Horse Soldier Bourbon, among others. Her passion for her work is paramount, which positions her as a strong mentor to junior staff, inspiring them to a higher level of performance.

One of her many accomplishments previous to her agency work include a career in book publishing publicity and marketing, where she created multi-platform marketing campaigns that encompassed advertising, events, social media, buzz marketing stunts, publicity, brand building, and strategic partnerships. During her tenure in publishing, she helped to build the brands for authors including Mario Batali, Deepak Chopra, Jillian Michaels, Tyler Florence, Haylie Pomroy and more.

Leigh Ann holds a degree in Mass Communications, with a minor in Journalism, from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She lives with her two kids in Maplewood, NJ

Ilisa oversees 5W's Beauty, Grooming and Wellness Division. She has extensive experience working with leading and established brands as well as indie innovators in industries including cosmetics, skin care, hair care & hair removal, fragrance, men's grooming, oral care, and supplements.

Having partnered with many natural beauty and personal care brands, she has a strong understanding for the niche market. Ilisa has also executed media strategies for e-retailers, salons, spas, physicians, and pharmaceutical and aesthetic brands. Her exposure to both luxury brands and mass market products has allowed her to develop a wide range of expertise in the space.

As a seasoned practitioner in brand publicity, she is responsible for implementing creative and customized programs designed to impact her clients' overall brand awareness and bottom line, including media relations, influencer and digital marketing, and social media activities. She also offers branding and product development counsel for many of her clients.

Ilisa and her team also conceptualize media and consumer events, celebrity and influencer-driven initiatives, strategic partnerships and philanthropic initiatives, and secure appropriate partners for added value opportunities.

She also maintains strong relationships with key national and regional editors and media, which have allowed her to secure top-tier features and profiles for her clients on a consistent basis. Under her leadership, the team has run award-winning campaigns for clients like jane iredale and Rowenta Beauty and her agency has been named a top beauty marketer by Beauty Store Business Magazine, noting that 5W PR "has made an undeniable mark on the beauty industry."

Ilisa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She is a proud mom and enjoys watching the world through her daughter's eyes and exploring Manhattan with her family.

Lori Ruggiero serves as Managing Partner & EVP, Corporate & Technology Practice and lead media and messaging strategist for 5WPR's Technology and Corporate divisions. She works on campaigns across numerous verticals and fields including, enterprise technology, B2B, ecommerce, fintech, cyber security, AI, CX, and more. She also heads 5W's Media Training Program which she launched in 2019.

Lori works with clients of varying ability to learn or improve public speaking, on camera presence, deep messaging, podcast hosting, and to understand how to navigate complexities within the media. She also has extensive experience creating and executing crisis communications strategies for both individuals and larger organizations.

A former journalist and television news producer for 16 plus years, Lori previously held positions at several global media entities including: NBC, CNN, Fox Business, ESPN and Al Jazeera America. She was a 2008 East-West Center Hong Kong Journalism Fellow and has won several accolades, including two Peabody Awards for her coverage of Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 presidential election.

Since joining agency life more than four years ago, Lori draws from her deep industry knowledge to offer clients advanced strategic council for creating company messaging and narratives that will best resonate with targeted audiences. She has personally guided c-suite executives through pivotal announcements such as IPO's and acquisitions, and sensitive topics such as layoffs and legal issues.

Lori graduated from Boston University's College of Communication with a bachelor's degree in Journalism and a minor in Psychology.

Lauren McGuire is a seasoned digital marketing and operations leader with over a decade of experience driving growth, innovation, and integration across diverse industries. She's had great success leading national digital operations spanning Paid Media, Influencer, and Social channels to deliver scalable, high-impact solutions.

Known for her ability to design and implement systems that streamline workflows, foster cross-functional collaboration, and enhance performance, Lauren has played a pivotal role in shaping digital strategy for major brands in corporate, consumer, travel, healthcare, and lifestyle sectors. She is a trusted partner to senior leadership, guiding new business development, integrating emerging technologies like AI, and ensuring readiness for rapid market shifts.

Lauren's career includes leadership roles in the agency world where she consistently delivered measurable results in media performance, team development, and revenue growth. With expertise in digital strategy, operational excellence, and advanced marketing techniques, she thrives on turning complex challenges into clear, actionable plans that drive sustainable success.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a specialization in Public Relations/Advertising from Loyola University Maryland, along with a Business Administration minor from the AACSB-accredited Sellinger School of Business.

Robyn Ungar has more than twenty-three years of senior public relations and communications experience and is a highly regarded marketing specialist and brand strategist.

She has been a key communications campaign creator for many blockbuster consumer health & wellness lifestyle brands, integrating marketing, sales, and corporate brand strategies. Robyn has developed and executed strong strategic and holistic brand platforms weaving traditional media, social and digital media, top-tier influencers, and professional and celebrity experts on behalf of clients. Robyn has been instrumental in creating and managing campaigns for global blockbuster brands including Ocean Spray, TB12, Monistat, e.p.t., Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Retin-A-Micro, Renova, OrthoNeutrogena Dermatologics, WeightWatchers, Natrelle Breast Implants - Allergan Aesthetics, Lansinoh, Viactiv, Earth's Best, Talkspace, NOCD, Paxil-CR, Anacin, Imitrex, Newton Living, and more.

As a strategic brand specialist, Robyn ensures "The Big Picture" always includes an insightful and consistent approach to press placements, both product, expert, and general feature storytelling moments. In addition to ensuring brands have an integrated communications platform achieving impactful conversions via target audience saturation across multimedia channels. All to drive quality engagement, awareness, and uptake of a company / brand. Robyn is constantly looking for new ways to build brand reputation and recognition in a strategic and streamlined approach, always staying ahead of the competition, and looking out for the brand's bottom line, while differentiating in the category and industry at large.

Her long-term brand partners, celebrity, press, and influencer relationships, in addition to her business acumen, have created much success for her clients internationally.

Amanda Garland is Executive Vice President of 5W's Technology practice at 5W. A seasoned communications professional, Amanda has more than 15 years of experience, both in agency settings and in-house.

With a demonstrated history of successfully managing media relations, consumer facing campaigns, brand strategy, celebrity relations and large scale events, Amanda has led clients ranging from big box retailers to boutique startup companies across tech, consumer, lifestyle, wellness, fashion + beauty and food + beverage verticals.
Self-motivated and knowledgeable in the industry landscape, Amanda regularly identifies relevant story angles and thought leadership opportunities, resulting in features on The TODAY Show, The New York Times and Business Insider to People, Refinery29 and Vogue. Amanda's acute understanding of strategy and brand building have allowed her to engage both clients and consumers while consistently driving results. She also facilitates media trainings on behalf of the agency, ensuring clients are prepared for opportunities as presented by the team.

Amanda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of Connecticut. She grew up in CT and currently resides in Manhattan.

Gabriella Velez serves as Executive Vice President within 5W"s Corporate Division. With over a decade of experience in developing and implementing integrated marketing and PR solutions, Gabriella has worked with top fortune 500 organizations where she built brands from the ground up and played a leading role in their overall marketing, communications and digital strategies.

Gabriella has led successful campaigns involving company acquisitions, funding, partnerships and integrations that work parallel to driving company goals. She is well-versed in the technology space overall, having a strong understanding of the various buyers, customers and partners and the intricacies of supporting publicly traded companies.

Since joining the agency, Gabriella has worked with high growth companies including VIZIO, Columbia Care, JPay, Bespoke, Sedgwick and more.

Gabriella is a graduate of Pace University with a Bachelor"s degree in international business marketing.

Ashley Barton serves as Executive Vice President, Consumer Lifestyle at 5W PR. Ashley is a successful brand-building publicist with over 10 years of experience, implementing and executing strategic campaigns across a variety of media verticals and partnerships.

Prior to joining 5W 8.5 years ago, Ashley was the PR Manager at the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Ashley has also worked with clients including Payless, Miami Fashion Week, WNBA, Ashley Stewart, Aerosoles, William Murray, Fit Body Boot Camp, DUBGEE by Whoopi Goldberg, and more.

Currently, Ashley provides day-to-day client counsel, strategic direction, and an innovative approach to targeting top media outlets for her clients. Through her keen understanding of media relations and by maintaining her strong media contacts, her clients have been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, New York Post, CNBC, Associated Press, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, Allure, BuzzFeed, ABC News, TODAY, GMA, and more. In addition to overseeing strategy within her division, Ashley continues to support team member's roles and growth within the company.

Ashley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Stony Brook University, and recently achieved a Master of Science in Public Relations & Corporate Communications from New York University. She loves cooking, traveling, horseback riding and brunch on Sundays, and currently resides in New York City with her husband.

Marijana Gucunski serves as Executive Vice President within the Consumer Lifestyle division at 5W Public Relations, leading communications programs for global and emerging brands, including The Honest Kitchen, Tineco, PetAg and more.

Acting as a true extension to client partners, she is accomplished at developing and executing integrated communications strategies that include media relations, events, influencer and celebrity programming, digital/social campaigns, partnerships and more. With a focus on strategy that drives measurable results, Marijana and her team take pride in building dynamic, creative and impactful programming.

In addition to her public relations experience, Marijana holds an MBA from Rutgers University, specializing in Marketing and Strategy, and a BA in Communications. In her spare time, Marijana loves to spend time with her dog Birdie, travel, compete in marathons and explore the outdoors.

Kerri Nuzie is a Senior Vice President in 5WPR's Beauty division, bringing nearly 18 years of experience in public relations with a strong focus on media and influencer relations. A seasoned publicist, Kerri is known for developing and executing strategic, integrated PR campaigns across both traditional and digital platforms for a wide range of beauty and wellness brands.

Throughout her long tenure at 5WPR, Kerri has led award-winning media relations and influencer programs spanning skincare, haircare, color cosmetics, grooming, supplements, and more. She specializes in conceptualizing high-impact media and consumer events, celebrity partnerships, strategic collaborations, and philanthropic initiatives, while also securing expert and professional partners to enhance brand credibility and visibility.

She is deeply passionate about driving meaningful results for her clients and business impact. Kerri has successfully executed campaigns for notable brands including EltaMD, medicube, KISS, Wonderskin, DevaCurl, Ardell Beauty, StriVectin, Catrice Cosmetics, among many others.

Kerri resides in Westchester, New York with her husband and two children, and enjoys spending her free time with her family & friends, traveling and trying new restaurants.

Nicholas Koulermos is a Senior Vice President within 5W's Corporate Practice. With over 12 years of experience in policy, public affairs and public relations, Nicholas leads teams specializing in corporate communications and media relations.

Nicholas has a wide range of industry experience, including in B2B and B2B2C verticals across fintech and financial services, healthcare, real estate, cannabis, SaaS technologies, M&A, legal, industry associations, agriculture and food. Currently, Nicholas and his team manage strategic communications and campaigns for industry leading tech clients such as eMoney Advisor, as well as prominent entrepreneurs including former Blue Apron Co-Founder, Matthew Wadiak, and former CEO of Apple, John Sculley. Since joining the firm in 2015, Nicholas has brought passion and energy to his team and clients.

Prior to his role at 5W, Nicholas served as a Public Affairs Consultant at bmgzstrategies and as a Policy Specialist for the U.S. Department of Education - leading public affairs and communications efforts for both agencies. Nicholas also served as a Project Coordinator for the Mayor's Office of Chicago and was a Public Affairs Officer for a Member of Parliament at the European Union. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Political science, a degree in International Affairs, and a degree in Environmental Science from DePaul University in Chicago.

Nicole Milazzo serves as Senior Vice President of the Consumer Lifestyle division at 5W Public Relations, where she leads strategy, client counsel, and business growth across the agency’s Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality portfolio. With over 15 years of industry experience, Nicole is responsible for shaping integrated communications strategies, driving new business development, and delivering high-impact campaigns that elevate brand visibility and drive measurable results.

She provides senior-level counsel to clients while overseeing the development and execution of innovative programs spanning brand activations and stunts, celebrity and influencer partnerships, media relations, red carpet and launch events, strategic brand collaborations, and integrated digital services including social, paid media, and SEO. Known for her ability to translate business objectives into culturally relevant storytelling, Nicole helps brands stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic and fast-moving landscape.

Since joining the agency in 2011, Nicole has played a key role in expanding 5W’s hospitality and travel footprint, working with clients including Amalfi Jets, Blue Bottle Coffee, CheapOair, Circle Line Sightseeing, Fairmont Hotels, Fareportal, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Ghirardelli, H&H Bagels, KPOT, Luna Park in Coney Island, P.F. Chang’s, Royal Air Maroc, The Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, The Paley Center for Media, The Strong National Museum of Play, Tony Roma’s, Visit Lisbon and Visit Morocco.

Nicole is a graduate of Seton Hall University, where she earned a degree in Public Relations and Journalism.

Chris Thatcher serves as Senior Vice President of 5W's Technology practice. An accomplished and driven communications professional with a proven record in building brands, Chris has a keen understanding of business strategy and needle-moving objectives.

With more than 15 years of experience, he leads a team of seasoned media relations experts across the B2C and B2B spaces, touching a wide range of verticals within the technology sphere, including consumer goods and services, healthcare, HR, automotive, esports, enterprise, travel, cannabis, crypto, space and more.

Since joining the agency in 2009, Chris' experience has spanned several divisions at 5W. He's worked within multiple groups and helped to build out 5W's award-winning Consumer Technology practice. His client work encompasses a diverse range of industries, including leading successful campaigns for Samsung SmartThings, CoinFlip, Cannabiniers, HINT Water, Nectar Sleep, Axiom Space, Electra Meccanica, Reis & Irvy's, Dating.com Group, Harvest Hosts, and more.

With an eye for spotting stories, Chris specializes in media relations, and his clients have been featured in everything from The TODAY Show and TechCrunch to Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations from SUNY Oswego. He grew up in upstate New York and currently resides in Manhattan.

Jason Heller serves as Senior Vice President within 5W's Consumer Technology division. With over 11 years of experience, he helps lead teams launching and building high-growth tech companies - from seed stage to publicly traded - in a range of industries, including finance, real estate, ecommerce, cyber security, digital marketing, blockchain and Vice. In his tenure at 5WPR, Jason has led his teams on strategic and integrated campaigns for such clients as Avant, Commercehub, RealPage and BioCatch.

In addition to securing strategic trade media, Jason excels at breaking down companies' complex technologies and inserting them into the mainstream news cycle, including with announcements, thought leadership, profiles, case studies and data campaigns. He has been integral part of 5W's tech team's growth since joining the firm in 2013.

Prior to joining 5W, Jason worked at Beckerman Public Relations and Antenna, a Beckerman company, representing clients in real estate and ancillary industries, as well as clean technology. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from Rutgers University and lives in Jersey City with his wife and dog, Duffy.

Aaron Virola is a senior communications executive with 20 years of experience leading integrated PR, brand, and marketing strategies for some of the world's most iconic consumer tech and B2B brands. Currently serving as Senior Vice President at 5WPR leading the B2B Tech Group, Aaron brings a proven track record of driving market share, brand relevance, and measurable business impact for Fortune 500s and high-growth disruptors alike.

Prior to joining 5WPR, Aaron spent over five years at Axicom, where he served as SVP and GM of the New York office. There, he grew a $2M+ client portfolio, won transformative business with AMD, and helped lead the agency to multiple industry honors, including PRovoke's "Global Agency of the Year." His earlier work at FleishmanHillard and Edelman shaped his reputation as a thoughtful, high-performance leader known for blending strategic insight with creative storytelling.

Aaron has led campaigns that have delivered tangible business results-from double-digit market growth for Samsung and Bose to award-winning initiatives like Dell's "Brain on Tech," which earned 100+ placements and a 15% lift in brand sentiment. He's also helped brands like Canon USA, WWE, and Hisense breakthrough in competitive media landscapes, often integrating them into the worlds of sports, lifestyle, and entertainment.

Whether building C-suite visibility, driving product buzz, or creating compelling narratives around innovation, Aaron brings energy, precision, and a collaborative spirit to every engagement. He holds a master's in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Iona University and is based in New York.

Clare Algozin is an accomplished digital marketing leader with a track record of driving growth for global brands through innovative, data-driven paid media strategies. She has led multi-million-dollar investments across paid social, search, programmatic, display, video, and emerging media channels for industries spanning B2B, DTC, technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors.

Most recently Clare oversaw the North America Paid Media Center of Excellence at Zeno Group, developing and executing integrated strategies that aligned with business objectives and delivered measurable impact. She has deep expertise in demand generation, leveraging advanced targeting, personalization, and channel mix strategies to accelerate customer acquisition and revenue growth.

Clare's career has been defined by her commitment to performance measurement and developing innovative tactical campaign strategies. She has implemented sophisticated attribution modeling and measurement frameworks, translating campaign data into actionable insights that inform smarter investment decisions. Her leadership includes pioneering AI-driven media buying and automation initiatives, as well as building strategic partnerships with leading media platforms to unlock exclusive opportunities. Before Zeno, Clare held roles at Red Antler/Good Moose, UM Worldwide, and OMD USA, where she developed media mix modeling approaches, led integrated global campaigns, and worked with cross-functional teams to deliver high-impact, performance-oriented marketing strategies.

Clare holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations from the James Madison College at Michigan State University. She enjoys running, reading, Muay Thai and is competing in her first Strongman competition this fall.

Andrew is a Senior Vice President of Finance here at 5WPR. Here he oversees the Finance department and provides the leadership teams with the financial tools and analysis they need to maintain a healthy and balanced financial structure. With his over 10 years of experience in implementing and maintaining the financial systems of an organization, Andrew's tasked with bringing 5Ws financial systems into the future.

Before joining 5W, Andrew spent time at Berlin Rosen there he served as a Senior Vice President of Client Finance where he oversaw the financial reporting and budgeting of their Digital and National practices. Prior to Berlin Rosen, Andrew spent most of his early career at Global Strategy Group where he helped implement many processes and systems to ensure organization efficiencies and analytics for over 8 years.

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Master's in Business Administration from Canisius College. Andrew is originally from Upstate NY but currently resides NYC.

Talvendar Kaur serves as the Controller at 5WPR. She oversees the firm’s comprehensive financial operations, ensuring fiscal integrity and driving scalable growth. With over a decade of high-level experience, Talvendar specializes in building scalable financial ecosystems that support rapid organizational growth and specializes in transforming complex financial data into strategic business insights. Her expertise spans the full spectrum of financial management, streamlining month-end close processes and implementing advanced financial systems to enhance reporting accuracy. She leverages a diverse background in international markets that helps her maintain rigorous accounting standards and internal controls.

Before joining 5WPR, Talvendar held a pivotal financial position at Birchbox, ultimately serving as Global Accounting Manager. In this capacity, she managed the financial complexities of a pioneering global e-commerce brand, overseeing international ledgers and streamlining year-end audits across multiple territories. Her early career in the Middle East provided a foundational expertise in global business relations and diverse financial structures.

Talvendar holds a Master of Science in Accounting from the Zicklin School of Business (Baruch College) and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Manipal University. Deepening her expertise in high-level corporate finance, she earned the Wharton Online & Wall Street Prep Certificate in Financial Planning & Analysis (CFPA), a credential focused on advanced valuation and strategic financial modeling.

Kim Capogna is the Vice President of Talent at 5W Public Relations. Kim leads all talent acquisition planning and strategy for 5W, supporting the unprecedented growth of the agency across divisions including Health & Wellness, Lifestyle, Entertainment, Travel & Hospitality, Food & Beverage, Home & Housewares, Beauty, Corporate, and B2B & B2C Technology.

Prior to her leadership role on our talent team, Kim was the Chief of Staff to the CEO, where she worked directly with senior leaders to provide strategic counsel within the organization. Since joining 5W in 2010, Kim has contributed to the success of 5W all while proving to be a trusted resource within the agency. Her unique experience and growth within the firm gives her the special perspective to be a career "matchmaker" for roles in the PR, Digital & Marketing space.

Kim earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Pace University in NYC. She resides in Huntington, NY, with her husband, three children, and two French Bulldogs.

Steph Rosenblum Hadas is a Vice President on the Consumer and Emerging Technology team at 5W Public Relations. Steph focuses on brands in the HR/workplace, travel and adtech/martech arenas, with experience managing and executing campaigns for both industry leaders and high-growth startups including CareerBuilder, Hibob, WorkForce Software, Kenshoo, Harvest Hosts, and Klaviyo. In her role, Steph is responsible for strategic planning, the mentorship and development of junior staff, and driving consistent and impactful media coverage.

Before joining 5W in 2017, Steph worked in the parenting and fashion industries, managing key media relationships in order to build awareness for brands such as Earth's Best, Ella's Kitchen, and Armitron Watches.

Steph graduated from The George Washington University School of Business and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Management.

Stephanie Baber is a Vice President on the Consumer and Emerging Technology team at 5W Public Relations. Stephanie has proven success leading integrated media relations strategies and thought leadership programs across the consumer tech, food & health and lifestyle practice areas, managing B2C and B2B programs for clients ranging from CPG products to apps to smart home.

With top tier results helping technology and food brands launch new products, execute at major trade shows and experiential events and build awareness through targeted media efforts, Stephanie has a passion for creative storytelling and brand strategy.

Before joining 5W, Stephanie worked across lifestyle, commerce and top CPG brands, helping develop media and event strategy for the likes of Quaker, Unilever, Danone, Shopify and Jabra.
Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and Anthropology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She currently resides in Jersey City.

Lauren Scheer serves as an Vice President of 5W's Beauty team and is a connected, results-driven publicist with proven successes managing impactful media and influencer relation programs for both established and indie brands.

Lauren brings creativity, strong relationships, and industry knowledge to her clients to secure and amplify powerful brand coverage that alters consumer behavior and impacts business results. Prior to 5W, Lauren was a Senior Account Executive at Behrman Communications and also served as an Account Executive at The Dana Agency PR.

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from the University of Miami and has been promoted several times throughout her tenure of more than eight years with 5WPR.

Angie Castro-Patterson serves as a Vice President of 5W's Beauty team. Having worked on a plethora of brands over the years, Angie is entrenched in the overall beauty category offering vast experience in color cosmetics, skincare, haircare, oral care, nutraceuticals, and laser aesthetics.

She also brings tremendous success to the table by working with her network of top personalities in the industry such as celebrity dermatologists, aestheticians, makeup artists and hair stylists to bring media results to fruition.

Angie has a Bachelor's in Communications & PR from Rutgers University. She began her PR career at 5WPR, remaining at the agency for more than nine years, and has been promoted several times throughout her tenure.

Nicole is a highly motivated PR professional with 10 years of communications-marketing experience across a variety of consumer brands in the lifestyle, CPG, fashion and beauty arenas. Regarded as an overachiever who is committed to excellence, Nicole has outstanding account management, strategic media relations, and event production/activation skills. Nicole builds and manages brand reputation through creative storytelling that drives real change for brands including; Dove Men+Care, Fabletics, Payless, SheaMoisture, Shapermint, among others.

Jen Squilla is a Vice President on 5W's Health & Wellness team, bringing more than 15 years of experience building communications programs at the intersection of science, health, fitness, technology, and culture. She develops strategies that don't just earn coverage, they earn trust, drive relevance, and move markets.

Her work spans metabolic health, brain health, respiratory wellness, sport, boutique fitness, social connection, and the connected health technologies redefining how people understand their own bodies. Jen translates complex science into stories that resonate with media, investors, and the decision-makers shaping healthcare’s future, partnering with key opinion leaders, clinicians, and policymakers to build evidence-based programs that command attention.

She has guided brand communications through FDA audits, prepared executives for global stages from Riyadh to San Francisco, and placed clients at marquee moments including Fortune’s Most Powerful Women, CES, and HLTH. Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief Jason Feifer has called her "one of the few publicists who doesn’t suck."

As a Substack author and former journalist, Jen brings a reporter’s instinct for the right story to everything she does. She’s equally at home testing the latest AI health tools and digital twins as she is advocating for the basics, sleep, movement, breathwork, and a long walk outside. She lives in Miami with her husband, two daughters, and a growing list of rescue pets.

Alexia has over 12 years of experience in brand positioning, omnichannel marketing, and retail activation for beauty, wellness, and consumer product brands. Her strategic approach emphasizes understanding the competitive landscape, pinpointing where brands can truly succeed, and creating integrated PR and digital campaigns that link earned media, paid channels, and retail performance. She excels at translating business goals into cohesive strategies that deliver measurable results.

Throughout her career, Alexia has held senior marketing leadership positions supporting CPG brands like The Lip Bar, Anisa International, Godrej, and The Mane Choice. She has spearheaded major retail expansion at top retailers, scaled brands across e-commerce and physical stores, and created strategies that boost brand equity and increase revenue.

Alexia holds a B.A. in Public Policy Leadership from the University of Mississippi, an MBA in Marketing, and an M.S. in Communications focused on Advertising, both from Syracuse University.

Alexis Morgan is a digital and executive visibility leader with over a decade of experience transforming how brands and executives show up in the market. She specializes in building high-impact digital strategies that turn leadership voices into powerful drivers of brand authority, credibility, and measurable business results.

At 5W, Alexis leads digital strategy across executive visibility, corporate social, and integrated storytelling—helping brands bridge earned media, social platforms, and real-time narrative to strengthen their market position. She is known for translating complex business priorities into clear, insight-led content ecosystems that resonate with key stakeholders including customers, partners, media, and investors.

A recognized expert in LinkedIn strategy and executive influence, Alexis has coached and trained hundreds of senior leaders and C-suite executives to build authentic, differentiated voices. Her work spans industries including retail, hospitality, finance, manufacturing, and emerging technology, where she has consistently driven audience growth, engagement, and brand trust through people-led storytelling.

Prior to 5W, Alexis held leadership roles at agencies and in-house, where she led enterprise digital ecosystems, scaled recruitment marketing programs, and partnered closely with executive leadership to shape corporate narrative and long-term brand strategy.

With deep expertise in digital strategy, executive positioning, and content innovation, Alexis is passionate about helping organizations turn influence into impact—and visibility into enterprise value.

Jenny Rowe is a Vice President within 5WPR’s B2B technology practice with almost a decade of experience driving media relations and communications strategies for clients in the advertising and marketing industries.

During her tenure with 5W, Jenny has leveraged her ‘chronically online’ nature and expertise in media relations to lead successful PR campaigns and secure coverage across top-tier and trade media with national print, online, podcast and TV publications, such as The Wall Street Journal, NBC News, POLITICO, USA Today, Business Insider, Reuters, and Yahoo! Finance. She has cultivated experience in crafting strategic communications plans across verticals including the creator economy, retail, business of television, entertainment, branding, and more.

Prior to her time at 5W, Jenny started her career at Rubenstein Associates where she conducted PR initiatives for high-profile, NYC-based clients including Rockefeller Center, Association for a Better New York, and the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation.

Jenny is a graduate of Hofstra University with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Political Science.

Katie Burger's been working in the B2B PR space for 12+ years, most recently joining 5WPR as Vice President, B2B Tech. Previously, Katie was Associate Vice President at DiGennaro Communications where she spent 6.5 years. She worked with clients across ad-tech and marketing including Spotify Ads, Uber Ads, Digitas, Outbrain, ANA and more. Prior to DiGennaro Communications, Katie served as Account Director at Day One Agency where she primarily spearheaded thought leadership strategies for American Express' CMO. She's also spent time with Powell Communications where she worked with ad agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi NY and Havas.

Michael Padovano is Vice President, Strategy & Reputation Management at 5WPR, specializing in Reputation Management, Crisis & Media Strategy. He operates at the intersection of media, policy, and public perception, helping organizations navigate complex communications challenges with clarity and credibility.

Over the years, Padovano has partnered with Fortune 500 executives, legal innovators, tech founders, and mission-driven organizations, particularly those operating in unpredictable or high-pressure environments. His approach is grounded in disciplined messaging, narrative depth, and an understanding of how influence is built in today's fractured media landscape.

Select highlights of his work include:

• Leading high-profile crisis programs involving rapid response, 24/7 coordination, and multi-stakeholder messaging.
• Overseeing a campaign that helped position Casetext for its successful acquisition by Thomson Reuters.
• Shaping national media strategies for AI and legal clients navigating shifting regulatory and geopolitical terrain.
• Elevating public campaigns for organizations serving U.S. veterans, aligning mission with meaningful media visibility.

Oona Mayo is Vice President of Creative Strategy and New Business at 5W Public Relations. With more than 15 years of experience, she leads creative development and pitch strategy, overseeing cross-functional proposals that fuse cultural insight with commercial impact. Her work includes award-winning campaigns and go-to-market strategies for both Fortune 500 brands and early-stage startups.

Previously, Oona held senior roles at UnitedMasters, G/O Media, and UPROXX, where she launched new revenue products, led international expansion, and built creator-led programs across music, media, and tech. She brings deep expertise in brand partnerships, cross-functional leadership, and culturally fluent storytelling.

She holds a degree in Economics with a concentration in Marketing from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Lindsey Popper serves as an Associate Vice President of 5W's Beauty team working across haircare, skincare, color cosmetics and aesthetics for a mix of emerging and established brands.

Lindsey focuses on shaping brand strategy, impactful storytelling and executing creative programming to deliver needle-moving results for her clients. She cultivates meaningful relationships with editors and influencers that allow her to secure in-depth coverage across beauty, wellness, lifestyle, business, trade and social media outlets.

Prior to 5W, Lindsey worked across fashion and beauty clients at LaForce. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Michigan and has been promoted several times throughout her tenure of eight years with 5WPR.

Christina serves as an Associate Vice President on 5W's Beauty team. Raised in the Bronx, New York, and currently residing in Harlem, she brings a vibrant perspective to her work. With extensive experience across a wide range of brands, she brings deep expertise in multicultural haircare, skincare, oral care, color cosmetics, and wellness.

Christina has a deep passion for storytelling which has helped catapult brands to the next level through innovative brand strategy, impactful partnerships, and experiential moments. Her creative programming aims to achieve transformative results for her clients, helping them shine in a competitive market.

Prior to her role at 5WPR, Christina honed her skills in beauty and wellness at Tractenberg & Co. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a focus on Public Relations and Advertising, as well as a minor in Theatre, from Liberty University. Over her eight years at 5W, Christina has been promoted several times, reflecting her commitment to excellence and her ability to drive success for her clients.

Danielle Marcello is a seasoned publicist with extensive experience in the beauty and wellness industries. She has a proven ability to create impactful media strategies, manage influencer collaborations, execute high-profile events, and thought leadership programs. Danielle has successfully led campaigns for brands ranging from indie names like It's a 10 Haircare and Ethique, to global powerhouses such as Prada Beauty, StriVectin, and MAKE UP FOR EVER throughout her decade-long career.

Currently serving as an AVP at 5W, Danielle leads PR initiatives that drive business growth, increase brand visibility, and foster key relationships with top editors and influencers. Her expertise spans media strategy, influencer management, and client retention.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from the University of Rhode Island and has been promoted several times throughout her tenure of six years with 5W.

Lana Rodriguez serves as an Associate Vice President on 5W's Consumer Lifestyle team, where she blends strategic savvy with an innate passion for culture, community, and connection. Rooted in a proud Latin heritage, Lana draws inspiration from her love of food, beverage, pets, and all things lifestyle to lead campaigns that are as dynamic and authentic as the consumers they serve. Her culturally attuned lens and deep understanding of what moves people allow her to build brand narratives that are both emotionally resonant and powerfully effective.

An NYU alum with experience spanning major household names and ambitious startups, Lana brings a unique ability to balance big-picture strategy with nimble execution. Described as someone who "brings her whole heart" to every project, she champions a culture of respect, collaboration, and curiosity—grounded always in a results-forward mindset.

From integrated campaigns to new product launches, Lana has a proven track record supporting client partners in building lasting brand equity through earned media, influencer programming, cultural storytelling, events and more. She advocates for a thoughtful, yet boundary-pushing that combines heart, hustle, and a true love for the work.

Kristin Ray is an AVP on 5W's Consumer Lifestyle, Parenting team. Since joining 5W in 2016, she has developed a rolodex of media relationships across the parent and wellness spaces. She has worked with a variety of clients including Kids2, Green Sprouts, Greenlight, Delta Children, and Stokke. Kristin has secured client features and product placement hits in top-tier media outlets that include TODAY, Motherly, What to Expect, Forbes, INSIDER, Well + Good, Buzzfeed, Best Products and more.

Isabella DeAngelis is an Associate Vice President on 5WPR’s Consumer Lifestyle team.

With over five years at 5W, Isabella has become a key leader within the agency’s Lifestyle & Apparel division, playing an integral role in driving growth across the agency through strategic client partnerships and innovative brand-building initiatives. As Associate Vice President, she leads the development of creative campaigns and integrated strategies that help both established and emerging brands strengthen market presence, elevate brand positioning, and achieve business objectives.

Isabella is recognized for her expertise in strategic planning, event execution, celebrity partnerships, and executive profiling, delivering impactful programs that enhance visibility and create long-term value for clients across fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment. Her ability to identify new opportunities, foster client growth, and serve as a trusted advisor has made her an instrumental leader within the agency.

She graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Marist College.

Dakota Orlando is an AVP on 5W's Technology team and has been with the agency for seven years. A true generalist, she provides strategic guidance and executes creative campaigns across industries, including cryptocurrency, fintech, real estate, cannabis, fitness, education, Web3, and social media.

Dakota excels in crafting unique brand stories for established and challenger brands, regularly driving results that drive impact. She is also versed in thought leadership programming, helping to establish and raise profiles of executives through daily story generation, speaking opportunities and events. Dakota is known to build trusting relationships with clients through thoughtful recommendations and transparency. She leads strategy development and manages day-to-day account activity, ensuring brands see 5W as an extension of their teams.

Before joining the agency in 2017, Dakota held several positions in the technology and fashion spaces working with rbb Communications, the Green Room, and Luxe Intelligence. She also specifically worked with brand consultancy agency, Derris, where she played a role in the grand opening of NYC's newest neighborhood, Hudson Yards, and supported the rebrand and expansion of cannabis leader and MSO, Green Thumb.

Dakota was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and graduated from University of Miami with a Bachelor's of Science in Public Relations. She currently resides in Fort Lauderdale with her dog, Rocky.

Cait Moss is an Associate Vice President in 5WPR's B2B Tech practice, where she leads strategic communications initiatives for clients across a diverse range of industries, including advertising and marketing, e-commerce, supply chain and logistics, AI, consumer tech, sports and more. With a deep understanding of the ever-evolving tech landscape, Cait is known for transforming complex, nuanced B2B narratives into impactful stories that that capture the attention of media, engage key stakeholders, and drive meaningful results for her clients.

Since joining 5W in 2018, Cait has built a strong track record of driving media, spearheading high-profile campaigns, and serving as a trusted partner to brands seamlessly navigating evolving industry trends. Her ability to balance big-picture thinking with tactical execution has made her a valuable asset within her team.

Cait holds a bachelor's degree in Communication from Rutgers University's School of Communication and Information, where she specialized in Strategic Communication and Public Relations, with a minor in Business Administration. Outside of work, she enjoys making pottery, running, and cooking—creative outlets that help her stay inspired.

Carinna Gano is an Associate Vice President on the Consumer & Emerging Technology team at 5W Public Relations. Carinna plays a key role in driving growth across the agency by leading strategic communications initiatives, fostering strong client partnerships, and delivering impactful business solutions for CEOs, emerging startups, and globally recognized brands.

With more than a decade of experience across fitness, health, HR technology, consumer goods, telecom, and travel, Carinna specializes in building integrated strategies that elevate brand positioning, support business objectives, and create long-term value for clients. She is recognized for her ability to identify opportunities for expansion, strengthen client relationships, and serve as a trusted strategic advisor across diverse industries.

Prior to joining 5W, Carinna worked on global campaigns for pharma industry leaders and luxury hospitality brands. She holds a degree in Communications from Fordham University, grew up in Brooklyn, and currently resides in Weehawken.

Daniella DiMartino is an award-winning PR and communications leader with more than a decade of experience across agency and in-house environments, where she has led high- impact campaigns spanning technology, AI, fintech, healthcare, higher education and corporate sectors.

She is known for operating as a strategic partner to senior executives, advising on how to navigate complex communications challenges while building credibility, visibility and long- term brand equity. Daniella specializes in media relations and executive thought leadership, with a strong track record of securing national coverage and positioning leaders as authoritative voices in competitive and rapidly evolving markets.

Her experience extends beyond traditional media relations into crisis communications, executive media training and integrated campaign development. She has supported organizations through high-profile moments, ensuring message clarity, consistency and confidence across media, stakeholders and internal teams. She is particularly skilled at translating nuanced or technical subject matter into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with both business and mainstream audiences.

In her current and prior roles, Daniella has led cross-functional teams, developed 30-60-90 day strategic plans, and aligned communications programs closely with business objectives, consistently delivering measurable impact and strengthening client reputation.

Vito Palmeri is an Associate Vice President within 5WPR’s Corporate division, specializing in media relations and communications strategy. Vito has obtained placement on major broadcast networks like CNBC, Fox Business, Fox News, and CNN and prominent print publications like The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Reuters.

Before joining 5WPR, Vito organized publicity campaigns for several best-selling authors, high-profile political figures, financial market experts, and business thought leaders at AMWPR, a boutique full-service communications firm in New York City. Vito led the financial services division of the firm, acting as the lead in various industries including emerging markets, energy, tax, real estate, travel, markets, and fintech.

Vito holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance from St. Francis College.

Emily Hochhauser serves as an Associate Vice President on the Digital team at 5WPR, where she leads influencer and creator strategy for a range of established and emerging brands across the consumer space, including beauty, health, travel, and hospitality.

Emily specializes in developing culturally relevant influencer campaigns that tap into emerging trends and spark meaningful conversation across both traditional and social media. With deep expertise in influencer partnerships and digital storytelling, she creates programs that generate viral moments, build brand affinity, and deliver measurable impact for her clients.

She has cultivated strong relationships with leading influencers, experts, and creator agencies, enabling her to execute strategic partnerships and high-impact collaborations for her clients.

Prior to 5W, Emily worked across beauty & wellness and spirits clients at Tractenberg & Co. and starpower. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Michigan and has a seven-year tenure at 5WPR.