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Hello, I'm Ria, the founder of Concepts by Ria: a marketing and branding studio focused on helping businesses build strong, scalable identities and grow with intention. I work with startups and emerging brands to go beyond just “posting content” and instead develop clear positioning, cohesive branding, and strategic marketing systems that actually drive results. A few of the services I provide are: • Brand development & positioning • Building marketing strategies • Public relations direction & brand image • Content creation • Digital presence management I have hands-on experience across platforms like Instagram, Youtube, Pinterest, which allows me to translate brand strategy into content that performs without losing the bigger picture. I graduated from the University of Houston in May 2024 with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Sales. From earning this degree, I have learned how to bring both a creative and analytical approach to every project, combining modern trends with structured strategy. If you're a business looking for more than just surface-level marketing and want to build a brand that’s clear, intentional, and positioned to grow, I’d love to work with you!

I’m a communications and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience helping small to mid-sized businesses elevate their brand, engage employees, and drive change. I specialize in employee and corporate communications, digital marketing, content creation, and brand strategy. I have worked in the healthcare (device and services), Technology (SaaS), lifestyle (CPG), and finance industries. Throughout my career, I've partnered with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to nimble nonprofits. Such as: Yokohama Tire, CSU Fullerton, Satellite Healthcare, Stanford University and Stanford Health Care (IT division), LinkedIn, Dialyze Direct, Fresenius, Future Care Consultants, Apani Networks, Sleepiz AG, and WellBound. I’m comfortable navigating both matrixed and flat organizational structures and collaborating closely with internal audiences and senior leadership, including C-level executives. Here’s a quick snapshot of what I bring: Developed and managed website and microsite content using WIX, Squarespace, and WordPress Crafted messaging and internal communications for C-level leaders and company-wide initiatives Coordinated and executed 150+ events, conferences, sales meetings, and symposiums Produced press releases, brochures, flyers, videos, RFPs, and more Fun, collaborative, and strategic—experienced in both high-level strategy and hands-on project management I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and a Master’s in Journalism & Mass Communications. If you're looking for a seasoned partner to help communicate your brand’s story and build stronger connections—internally and externally—I'd love to connect. Executive Comms | Change management | Project management | Brand marketing strategy | Internal communications | Marketing Communications | Event Management | Digital and AI marketing tools

I help companies define, position, and communicate their brands in ways that drive measurable business results—whether that’s launching something new, clarifying complex offerings, or strengthening market perception. I bring 15+ years of experience as a brand strategist, messaging expert, and content leader, working with Fortune 500 companies, top-tier consultancies, and high-growth businesses. My clients include organizations like Johnson & Johnson, Canon, ADP, and UPS, as well as work with Deloitte and McKinsey. I’ve also partnered with leading agencies including McCann/FutureBrand, Ogilvy, and FCB to support brand transformation, product launches, and global marketing initiatives. What I Do I focus on the intersection of brand strategy, messaging, and execution for strategies that have a real-world impact in building your business reputation and revenue. Brand Strategy & Positioning: Clarifying what you stand for, how you differentiate, and where you win Messaging & Verbal Identity: Turning complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with customers and stakeholders Naming & Brand Architecture: Developing names and systems that are strategically grounded and market-ready Content & Thought Leadership: Creating high-value content that builds authority, drives engagement, and supports sales Sales Enablement & Campaign Development: Equipping teams with the tools and messaging needed to convert opportunities into revenue How I Help Clients Clients typically bring me in when they need to: Launch a new brand, product, or initiative Reposition or modernize an existing brand Align internal teams around a clear, consistent story Translate technical or complex offerings into market-facing clarity Build thought leadership that supports growth and credibility Selected Experience Former Director, Brand Strategy at McCann’s FutureBrand consultancy Four years as brand strategist and copywriter for Johnson & Johnson's internal agency Marketing leadership roles in both startup and enterprise environments, including early-stage work with E Ink (technology behind the Amazon Kindle) Experience spanning industries including healthcare, technology, financial services, manufacturing, and consumer brands I’ve also taught digital marketing in the Columbia University EMBA program and hold certifications from the Search Engine Academy, eMarketing Institute, and HubSpot. Writing & Thought Leadership Contributor to major media outlets including NPR, CNN, BBC, and Forbes. Author of Merriam’s Guide to Naming and co-author of multiple books, including a New York Times bestseller. Engagement Approach I operate as a strategic partner—whether leading projects independently or collaborating with internal teams and agency partners. Typical engagements include: Brand positioning and messaging development Naming projects Brand and communications audits Thought leadership and content strategy Who I’m Best For: Fortune 500 and enterprise organizations navigating change or growth Mid-sized companies preparing to scale or reposition Founders and leadership teams who need clarity, alignment, and market impact

Hello! I'm Üma Kleppinger, a communications and marketing specialst with over 15 years in the field. I've partnered with a diverse range of clients, from global leaders in publishing and outdoor recreation to innovative startups in mental health, executive development, and B2B services, as well as nonprofit communications. I specialize in providing communication strategy, support, and implementation. Whether you need strategic messaging development, content creation and copywriting, or communication plan execution, I have the skills and expertise to deliver exceptional results. I am also able to provide multichannel integrated marketing support that includes digital, email, and content marketing campaigns to meet marketing objectives and drive engagement. I’ve also supported early stage businesses and smaller organizations with leadership development coaching, fundraising and capital development initiatives, and product development with the goal of to diversify revenue streams and scale business. What sets me apart is my unique blend of insightful analysis, strategic planning, and creativity. I bring stakeholder empathy and engagement, cross-functional collaboration skills, and compelling brand storytelling to every project I undertake. Why should you hire me? 1. I have a proven track record of developing communications that increase audience engagement. 2. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, even when in a leadership role. 3. I routinely over-deliver for my clients. It’s not uncommon for me to be hired for a specific scope or deliverable to then be invited into an expanded or leadership role. If you need a proven communications and marketing expert to tackle your challenges, let's connect! I offer a free 10-minute consultation at no charge to discuss your needs. Click below to book your consult today. SKILLS —Brand Development + Brand Refreshing —Marketing Communications —Discovery and Interviewing —Analytical and Strategic —Stakeholder Collaboration —Program Evaluation and Reporting —Generative AI Engineering —Curriculum Development —Facilitation and Program Development —Grantwriting and Capital Procurement —Visual and Graphic Design —Business, Journalism, and Marketing Writing —Content (SEO) Strategy —Content Management

Many B2B service providers are doing a lot of marketing, posting consistently, and investing real time and energy, but it’s still unclear what’s actually working or where to focus next. I help leaders turn that activity into clarity so their marketing supports their goals instead of pulling focus from them. Together, we define what you’re trying to achieve, sharpen your message, and set priorities your team can actually follow. I’ve partnered with more than 160 organizations across industries and growth stages. I also support a growing nonprofit organization in a senior strategy and operations capacity, working closely on priorities like fundraising, marketing strategy, operations, and long-term systems. Clients often come to me when: - Marketing feels busy, but it’s unclear what’s actually working - Messaging has grown inconsistent as the team or organization evolved - Tools, platforms, and channels aren’t working together in a cohesive way - Leadership wants a clearer plan before investing more time, money, or energy My role is to help teams step back, clarify priorities, and translate big ideas into simple, actionable direction they can move forward with confidence. How I support teams - Clarifying marketing and messaging priorities - Developing strategy that teams can actually follow - Aligning social media, content, and storytelling with real goals - Advising leaders during periods of growth, transition, or change Many clients start with strategy or advisory support and then build ongoing systems or team support once priorities are clear. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, strategic partner to help bring focus to your marketing and story, I’d love to connect. Send me a message or an invite to your project.

✅ Strategy, Branding & Marketing Expert 🌟 Trusted & Recommended by Upwork 🏆 Top 1% Talent on Upwork 🚀 High-Impact Brands That Stand Out ✅ Availability: Yes Creative visionary with a passion for creating unforgettable brand identities and experiences. I transform marketing strategies into high-impact systems, where positioning, design, and storytelling align to set brands apart and raise the bar. My areas of expertise include: ⭐️ Brand Visibility • Design • Guidelines ⭐️ Identity • Positioning • Execution ⭐️ Engagement & Audience Growth ⭐️ Content Systems + Strategy + Design ⭐️ AI-enhanced Workflows ⭐️ Creative AI Expert ⭐️ Social Media Marketing ⭐️ Digital Advertising ⭐️ Sales & Marketing Pipelines ⭐️ Project Management ⭐️ Graphic Design (Social Media, E-Books, Deck Presentations, Webinars, Training Courses, Infographics, Email Campaigns, Landing Page Design) - and so much more! Let's build your story together! 😄 Message me to get started.