Written by: William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has promoted Vice President Communications Kristin Smith to Senior Vice President Communications, effective Jan. 1, 2018. Smith will replace Patricia M. Reilly, who is departing the AAR at the end of this year to form Cabin8Communications, a strategic communications consultancy. Smith, who joined the AAR in 2010, has been directing the multi-year Freight Rail Works campaigns, spearheading research initiatives and overseeing the AAR’s advocacy campaigns. Prior to joining the AAR, she was with Ogilvy Washington and managed the AAR account. Smith’s previous experience includes McDonald’s, Automatic Data Processing (ADP) and Snap-on Tools. Reilly has been leading the Communications efforts at the AAR since 2008, “and was instrumental in establishing the long-running and award-winning Freight Rail Works branding/advocacy ad campaign as the face of the freight rail industry inside Washington, D.C.,” the AAR said. “During her time at the AAR, she has expanded the scope and reach of the industry’s efforts to raise awareness about freight rail’s many benefits and contributions, with an emphasis on all the industry does in the name of safety.” “Patti Reilly has been an invaluable asset to the AAR and the rail industry,” said AAR President and CEO Edward R. Hamberger. “Her sharp insight and innovative approach to communications has changed how we tell the story of railroading in America both inside and beyond the Beltway. One of the most important legacies she leaves the AAR is the team she has built, which is fully prepared to carry the torch forward with Kristin Smith at the throttle.” Continue reading...
