We’re spotlighting our Edelman Culture Champions, individuals recognized by their peers for exceptional dedication, positivity, and contributions to fostering a supportive workplace environment. These champions play a pivotal role in cultivating a culture where every voice is heard and valued. This edition of Inside Edelman features profiles of these outstanding colleagues from our U.S. offices, showcasing their efforts to uphold Edelman’s values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).
Tell us about your Edelman journey.
Growing up in a small town outside of Houston, Texas, I had high hopes to work at a reputable PR firm in the fast-paced, never-sleeping, icon that is New York City. I would have never believed I’d actually be going on 4 years at the most reputable firm of them all – Edelman. In my time here I have been able to work on incredible campaigns alongside some of the most brilliant people in our industry. Together our teams have brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to our clients and truly put culture first.
You were nominated for Culture Champion by your colleagues – how do you foster a collaborative and respectful culture within your team?
Honestly – I write down little memos to myself. I try to keep track of all the small things, people’s kid's names, their allergies (that’s an important one!), their coffee order, and even their astrological sign. Those little things help me better understand who I’m working with and allow me to show up for them in ways that matter. I really try to ensure everyone on the team feels seen and is not treated necessarily the same, but in the way they want to be treated.
How does your personal background play a role in your professional life?
I do feel my Latinidad and Queerness show up in my work, especially being on the Multicultural Brand team and leading Equal’s NY Branch. How I process briefs, lead workstreams, and guide clients are all through lens of my identities and in the spirit of being culture forward. In fact, my first ever real agency gig was for a Multicultural PR & Creative firm (my first boss poached me when I was waiting tables!) and that’s where I developed the strong connections and strategy I leverage every day at Edelman.
When you think about the future of Edelman, what does it look like for you?
I think it’s a bright future, and a future where everyone is adaptable to change. It’s always been true of our industry that you must be agile, but now more than ever agility is table stakes. I’m hopeful, we can bridge the gap between the new age mentality and retain some tried and true PR practices for stellar results.
What recommendations would you give to colleagues who are trying to make more connections at work? How do you think these connections have benefited your work?
Studies show work quality and team member satisfaction increases when people feel they have a “work bestie.” I encourage everyone to seek out connection because at the end of the day Public Relations is so much more than media relations, it’s relations with clients, vendors, and colleagues. Strong relationships with all these parties are what make us successful. So get involved, reach out! Maybe it’s ENGs, post-work happy hours where we celebrate and commiserate, 1:1s with no agenda what-so-ever. I know these moments have made all the difference in my time here at Edelman.
Ty Meza is a Senior Account Supervisor on the Multi-Cultural team based in New York.
