Frances Eugenia Collazo

About

Strategic and creative communications leader with over a decade of experience guiding messaging in complex, high‑stakes environments. Currently serving as Communications Director for the City of Cleveland Heights, where I lead citywide communication efforts focused on crisis response, transparency, cultural competency, and public trust. I build systems that are responsive, inclusive, and rooted in clarity—whether navigating political pressure, correcting misinformation, or elevating public engagement.

My background spans government, media, real estate, retail, and design. I’ve worked across coasts and communities—from New York City to rural Michigan to urban Ohio—and bring an adaptive, collaborative mindset to every project. I live in Cleveland Heights with my husband, two sons, and our dogs, Mr. Foo and Slayer. My work is guided by honesty, equity, and the belief that good communication is public service.

Experience

• Promoted twice within one year in recognition of leadership, strategic vision, and impact on citywide communications.
• Lead public messaging, crisis communications, and media strategy across digital, print, and public platforms.
• Oversee communications team and external partners, ensuring cohesive, accessible, and culturally competent messaging.
• Developed and implemented systems that increase transparency and responsiveness to urgent public concerns.
• Led restructuring of the communications department, including hiring processes, performance reviews, and workflows.
• Serve as primary liaison to media and public for high‑profile matters: legislative updates, infrastructure projects, and community engagement.
• Initiated citywide brand consistency and redesigned internal/external communications approaches.

• Advanced to Director based on performance and impact; supported crisis response and citywide communications initiatives.

• Provided full‑service creative direction, branding, and design for clients across retail, media, government, and nonprofit sectors.
• Led strategic visioning and campaign execution for small businesses, publications, and advocacy initiatives.
• Built scalable visual systems balancing creativity with message clarity and brand discipline.

• Oversaw redevelopment and community engagement across key downtown Gaylord properties to support revitalization and long‑term planning.
• Liaised among property owners, city officials, and the public to coordinate timelines, navigate code and zoning requirements, and address concerns.
• Coordinated communications and scheduling across construction teams, tenants, and municipal departments for continuity and responsiveness.