United States, Boston
Content Writer/Editor Richard Burke, Writing & Content
RICHARD J. BURKE
SUMMARY
I am a creative, proactive, passionate individual with strong interpersonal skills. I enjoy working in innovative environments, and find great satisfaction in seeking novel solutions when faced with challenges. Crafting relatable narratives is at the core of my strategic communications, marketing, and campaign philosophy. Using my background in journalism, government, market research, and public relations, I work with clients across industries to share compelling stories with their target audiences.
SKILLS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
* More than 25 years of experience in writing, editing, external relations, and communications.
* Proven project management and administrative abilities in deadline-focused environments.
* Diverse background in journalism, publishing, market research, sales, and government.
* Strategic communications and media strategies; political and non-profit campaign design and implementation; fundraising campaign operations; speechwriting and editing.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM, SEO, grant and proposal writing, and public speaking.
EDUCATION
Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT Bachelor of Arts Degree, May 1992
Major: English Literature/Creative Writing Concentration: Personality/Social Psychology
Awards and Honors: Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude, High Departmental Honors, Charles A. Dana Scholarship.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
August 2001 - Present
Freelance Writer/Editor/Proofreader (Representative client list below)
* Poloniex (Cryptocurrency Exchange), New England Law, Bedford-St. Martin's Press, Fidelity Investments, Citizens Bank, Bank of America; Private Clientele, Boston, MA; Harvard University Development Office, Cambridge, MA
* Proofread, write, and edit manuscripts, mailings, talking points, and online content.
* Utilize range of personal information to create vibrant resumes and curriculum vitae.
October 2019 - February 2020
Customer Care Advocate (Contract), Executive Office of Elder Affairs, Boston, MA
Credentialing Specialist (Contract), Coverys, Boston, MA
Onboarding Specialist (Contract), DentaQuest, Charlestown, MA
* At Executive Office of Elder Affairs, gathered information and offered resources regarding health care, housing, and insurance inquiries; protocol guidelines for the COVID-19 pandemic; and elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation allegations.
* At Coverys, verified accuracy of liability insurance coverage, including past and pending claims, for health care professionals nationwide using proprietary and public records.
* At DentaQuest, facilitated enrollment of BlueCross/BlueShield of Michigan dental providers; fielded inquiries regarding eligibility, benefits, history, payment, and authorization.
November 2017 - May 2019
Independent Insurance Agent
Aflac, Boston, MA
* Licensed producer of health, accident, and life policies for individuals and groups.
* Fostered compassionate relationships with new and existing clients; maintained CRM data.
* Kept apprised of industry/policy changes and Boston-area business developments.
September 2016 - July 2017
Work-from-Home Dad
Charlotte, Inc., Marblehead, MA
* Completed periodic assignments while caring for newborn daughter.
July 2010 - January 2014
Real Property Specialist
City of Lawrence, Lawrence, MA
* Sold city-owned real estate via Mass. General Laws, Chapter 30B; stabilized and beautified neighborhoods, generating revenue of more than $1.5 million; revitalized business district.
* Initiated and guided proposal review process by Lawrence Planning Board and City Council.
March 2005 - June 2010
Legislative Aide - Executive/Administrative Assistant
Massachusetts House of Representatives, Boston, MA
* Responsible for daily operations of busy State House office serving diverse constituency.
* Researched and filed budget amendments and legislation; attended policy meetings; composed correspondence, press releases, white papers, and talking points.
* Coordinated efforts with lawmakers and staff members in Lawrence delegation, House leadership, and Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC).
* Served as liaison between lawmakers, advocates, and constituents; organized special events; addressed public on vital economic, social, immigration, and public-safety issues.
March 2002 - March 2005
Park Ranger - Public Affairs Coordinator
Department of Conservation and Recreation, Boston, MA
* Patrolled Massachusetts State House and grounds; warmly greeted and directed visitors.
* Maintained website updates and communications; provided dedicated support at Boston-area public events, including annual Fourth of July celebrations at Hatch Memorial Shell; carried out assignments at DCR sites; trained in counterterrorism, CPR, and first aid.
September 2000 - June 2001
Writer, Milan, Italy
* Wrote novella and short stories during enterprising, self-funded sabbatical.
August 1997 - September 2000
Director of Research Associates - Human Resources/Employee Relations
Research International/Cambridge, Cambridge, MA
* Managed editorial department (six to eight employees) of custom market research firm.
* Oversaw branding and consumer satisfaction projects for Fortune 500 clients.
* Created written content and graphics for presentations, reports, and corporate website.
November 1994 - June 1996
Teacher of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Nova Intercultural Institute, Tokyo, Japan (Followed by international travel/work until April 1997)
March 1993 - October 1994
Contributing Editor, New Hampshire Premier, Portsmouth, NH
Reporter/Photographer, Swampscott Reporter, Marblehead, MA
Writing & Content
Speech Writing
Article Writing
Content Writing
Research
Editing & Proofreading