Hi, I am Houston, an experienced communications professional and graphic designer.

― BACKGROUND ―

I am an experienced communications professional with a strong background in internal and executive communications, communication and presentation design and development, graphic design, stakeholder management, and government affairs. I have a successful track record managing and developing communications campaigns and initiatives, managing and developing in-person and virtual events, preparing and providing remarks and presentations for executives and elected officials, creative development and branding support, intranet administration and intranet migration management, project management, and cross-team and cross-functional coordination in support of broad companywide initiatives.

Throughout my career, I have continuously shown the ability to learn and master new systems and platforms that not only support the work I perform, but also the programs, projects, and initiatives that I support.

Manager
Corporate Communications

The Hertz Corporation

August 2022 – Present

Primary support for the Technology and Administrative Office organizations to deliver high-impact internal communications, including email campaigns, executive messaging, and intranet content. Lead global content development for annual observance of Cyber Security Awareness Month, which includes launching a dynamic multimedia campaign featuring SharePoint posts, tips, campus monitor graphics and an interactive cyber escape room. Serve as global admin for the Hertz intranet, managing 60+ site editors and driving best practices through training and quarterly webinars. Spearheaded discovery, migration, and launch of a new intranet, consolidating more than 100 antiquated sites into a single hub built in SharePoint. Create executive-ready presentations, edit video and graphics for internal communications, and support CEO town halls and all production tasks for monthly Technology town halls. Provide technical support across key platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Power Automate-integrated SharePoint Lists, and third-party email tools. Create branded content and graphics for campus monitors. Authored a comprehensive Internal Communications Style Guide.

― WORK EXPERIENCE ―

Lead
Internal/Website Communications & Creative

Southern California Association of Governments

July 2020 – July 2022

Oversaw all internal communications, digital strategy and creative, supervising a team of designers and content staff. Directed executive messaging across presentations, speeches, and talking points for external stakeholders including elected officials and industry leaders. Spearheaded the full redesign and consolidation of the agency’s external website — merging 16 sites into one unified platform with a new CMS in just five months. Led internal communications and partnered with HR on personnel and policy updates. Managed the intranet modernization from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online, streamlining team collaboration via Microsoft Teams-integrated sites. Led a branding unification project to ensure alignment across all print and digital assets. Planned and executed high-profile events, including the agency’s annual conference and economic summit and developed all visual content for stage and screen. Championed fundraising for key events and programs, reinforcing community engagement and visibility.

Led executive and internal communications, serving as the primary writer for speeches, presentations, messaging, and policy updates. Spearheaded content development for agency newsletters, social media campaigns, and e-communications, ensuring cohesive and compelling messaging across platforms. Orchestrated major conferences and events, managing fundraising efforts, logistics, and on-screen visual design. Directed outreach initiatives, including public forums, workshops, and the annual economic summit. Championed student development as Program Coordinator for a regional scholarship program supporting future leaders in planning and public policy. Collaborated with HR on internal messaging and chaired the Employee Recognition Committee.

Public Affairs Specialist

Southern California Association of Governments

July 2018 – July 2020

LEGISLATIVE ANALYST

Southern California Association of Governments

November 2011 – June 2018

Drove statewide legislative, communications, and outreach strategies, advancing agency priorities and shaping policy proposals. As Acting Supervisor of the Legislation department for a year, led the creation of state and federal legislative agendas, fostering meaningful engagement with elected officials and government partners. Developed executive-level messaging, speeches, and presentations, while managing real-time legislative tracking and analysis. Built strong coalitions through college outreach, workforce development, and partnerships with labor, business, and academic stakeholders. Orchestrated high-profile conferences and summits, producing dynamic visual content for executive events. Championed student development as Program Coordinator for a regional scholarship program supporting future leaders in planning and public policy, as well as managed interns and their respective work assignments for nearly three years. Authored compelling communications across newsletters and social media, amplifying agency voice and visibility. Elevated team culture as Employee Recognition Committee lead, driving morale and internal engagement.

Planning Commissioner

City of Eastvale

December 2018 – July 2022

Appointed by the Eastvale City Council to serve as a Planning Commissioner (and served as Chairman for the last eight months), helping shape the city’s growth through strategic land use decisions and development oversight. Evaluated zoning applications, design proposals, and community impact to ensure alignment with Eastvale’s long-term vision and General Plan. Engaged with community members and stakeholders and provided guidance on policy updates and collaborated with stakeholders to promote development that enhanced livability, economic vitality, and architectural integrity across the city.

― EDUCATION ―

Purdue University

Master of Science, Communications

2015 – 2017

Norwich University

Graduate Certificate,
Teaching & Learning

2008 – 2009

Norwich University

Master of Arts, Diplomacy

2006 – 2008

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science

2000 – 2003

― Skills ―

MICROSOFT 365

(Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, OneNote, Viva Engage)

MICROSOFT POWER PLATFORM

(Power Automate, Power BI)

ADOBE CREATIVE SUITE

(Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop, Lightroom, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, Audition)

GRAPHIC DESIGN

INTRANET & WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

(Content Management, Development, Migration)

EXECUTIVE-LEVEL COMMUNICATIONS & COUNSEL

(Speechwriting/Talking Points, Communications Plan Development, Presentation Development)

TOWN HALL PLANNING & PRODUCTION

CONFERENCE PLANNING & MANAGEMENT

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

CORPORATE & NON-PROFIT FUNDRAISING

― Recommendations ―

Clint Lorimore

Councilmember

City of Eastvale

I am thrilled to provide a recommendation for Houston Laney, whom I had the pleasure of working closely with for nearly eight years.

During his time at the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Houston consistently showcased his exceptional work ethic, dedication, intelligence, and ability to achieve results.

Houston's commitment to excellence shone through in every project he undertook. He went above and beyond to ensure that his work surpassed expectations, delivering high-quality communication and creative materials. His ability to distill complex information into clear and concise messages greatly enhanced SCAG's internal and external communications.

In addition to his strong communication and creative skills, Houston possessed a deep understanding of public affairs and legislative analysis. His diligent research and analytical acumen provided valuable insights and informed recommendations on complex legislative issues.

Houston's role as Chair of the Planning Commissioner at the City of Eastvale further demonstrated his leadership and dedication to public service. He effectively led the commission, fostering productive discussions and making decisions that benefited the city and its residents.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Houston was a true team player and a joy to work with. His positive attitude, collaborative nature, and adaptability made him a valuable asset. He consistently inspired those around him with his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Houston's hard work, dedication, intelligence, and ability to deliver results make him an exceptional professional. Any organization would be fortunate to have Houston Laney on their team.

Art Yoon

Director of Government Relations

CGI

Houston is the ultimate pro. He listens and understands but also is a critical thinker and knows how to deliver more than you ask. He is likable among peers and nimble with technology. He is a team player who knows when and how best to lean in and lead. Any team would be lucky to have him and will try to recruit him every chance I get.

Wallace Walrod

Owner

TCCG LLC

Working together with Houston for many years has always been a pleasure. He is very diligent and thoughtful in terms of his approach. He oversaw various economic analysis contracts my team worked on. He is highly skilled in terms of project management, collaboration/partnership, report editing, attention to detail, critical thinking, and most importantly leadership. Houston is also a very kind, genuine person any team would be lucky to have be a part of.

I cannot recommend Houston highly enough!

— LET'S TALK! —

Fill out the form to get in touch with me. I look forward to hearing from you!

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