Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Education & Certifications
Timeline
Generic

April Elliott-Boza Barroso

London

Summary

Global communications leader with over 15 years of experience in luxury fashion, retail, and entertainment. Proven expertise in corporate communications, PR, crisis management, and digital strategy. Demonstrated success in enhancing brand visibility and engagement through innovative storytelling and strategic initiatives. Strong background in building relationships with media, VIPs, and influencers. More recently, consulting while raising two children - now eager to return to a full-time leadership role.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Freelance PR & Communications Consultant

CONSULTANCY
02.2020 - Current
  • Communications specialist with experience across global brands and start-ups in fashion, sustainable beauty, independent film, and artisan sectors.
  • Develops and executes multi-channel communications strategies (PR, influencer, organic and paid social media, marketing, internal communications) that drive measurable brand growth, audience engagement, and revenue internationally.
  • Partners with sustainable and ethical brands to craft messaging that resonates with audiences while supporting long-term revenue and impact goals.
  • Skilled in creating compelling content and building partnerships that enhance brands.
  • Oversees content strategy across digital platforms, ensuring messaging aligns with market trends and audience needs.

Group Communications Director (Global)

YMU GROUP (Agency)
04.2022 - 04.2023
  • Developed and executed YMU's inaugural communications strategy and crisis management plan, boosting brand awareness, enhancing brand reputation.
  • Built the PR and communication function for the company from the ground up.
  • Oversaw digital strategy focusing on scalable growth plans for IP and talent brands.
  • Secured top media coverage in Forbes, SBJ, Variety, and many more.
  • Elevated C-suite and corporate visibility through strategic media positioning.
  • Developed tailored communication plans across Entertainment, Art, Social, Fashion, Sports, Tech, Gaming, Music, Literary, Business Management, Commercial and Client IP.
  • Aligned and managed complex internal communications and cross-division opportunities.

Global Corporate Communications & Events Director

NBCUNIVERSAL (In-House)
05.2018 - 10.2019
  • Led corporate and event communication strategies across global and EMEA markets.
  • Partnered with NBCUniversal in-house tech team to shape communications around AI, VR, and AR initiatives.
  • Elevated C-suite visibility through speeches, blogs, and media opportunities.
  • Delivered high-impact corporate and talent events, driving engagement.
  • Expanded international market reach, increasing project success.
  • Managed and optimised the department budget for maximum efficiency.
  • Built a high-performing team, fostering a positive and collaborative culture.

Senior Project Director and Communications

SUNSHINE (Agency)
09.2016 - 10.2017
  • Managed project execution and communication strategies for this 'next-generation entertainment' company, developing intellectual property for luxury brands, including Apple, LVMH, Kering, YSL, Dior, Gucci, Balmain, Cartier, and Augustinus Bader.
  • Consulted with Apple on IP and brand partnership opportunities.
  • Managed client PR strategy and assets, ensuring a cohesive brand presence.
  • Produced compelling client collateral that enhanced brand identity for IP.
  • Developed strategic content plans for luxury brand episodic series and short films.
  • Defined and executed corporate brand vision and communication strategies.
  • Strengthened brand storytelling by managing and growing luxury PR partnership.

Global Corporate Communications Director

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
10.2013 - 07.2016
  • Developed and led global PR, influencer, and communication strategies, boosting brand visibility, market positioning and reputation in key markets. Aligned PR efforts with global marketing campaigns, product launches, and brand activations.
  • Drove corporate and event initiatives for store openings across international markets.
  • Collaborated with talent, creators, and cross-functional teams to launch campaigns that expanded reach and deepened customer loyalty.
  • Worked alongside digital team on CRM, digital marketing, SEO, and affiliate programs.
  • Managed sports and luxury event communications (Olympics, Wimbledon, Polo Dubai).
  • Secured top-tier media coverage and photoshoots in leading fashion and luxury publications with Ralph Lauren and high-profile personalities.
  • Built and maintained strong relationships with luxury media and influencers.
  • Directed in-house PR teams and external agencies, optimising performance and strategy execution, while building strong relationships with stakeholders and executives.

Global Corporate Communications Manager

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
01.2010 - 09.2013

EA & EMEA Communications Manager

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
04.2008 - 12.2009

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Business

Surrey Institute of Art & Design
Surrey
06.2000

Skills

  • Luxury, Fashion & Entertainment Storytelling
  • International & EMEA Public Relations
  • Strategic Brand Management
  • Marketing & Influencer Strategies
  • Crisis & Reputation Management
  • Corporate Communications
  • Digital & Social Media Communications
  • Content Creation
  • B2B Partnerships & Collaborations
  • Celebrity & Talent Management
  • High-Profile Media Relations
  • Budget Management & ROI Analysis
  • Team Leadership & Agency Oversight
  • Event Management & Activations

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Spanish
Upper intermediate (B2)

Education & Certifications

  • BA (Hons) Degree in Fashion Business & Communications, 2000
  • Sustainable Fashion (Centre for Sustainable Fashion & UAL), 2020
  • Fashion & Sustainability (London College of Fashion & Kering), 2023

Timeline

Group Communications Director (Global)

YMU GROUP (Agency)
04.2022 - 04.2023

Freelance PR & Communications Consultant

CONSULTANCY
02.2020 - Current

Global Corporate Communications & Events Director

NBCUNIVERSAL (In-House)
05.2018 - 10.2019

Senior Project Director and Communications

SUNSHINE (Agency)
09.2016 - 10.2017

Global Corporate Communications Director

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
10.2013 - 07.2016

Global Corporate Communications Manager

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
01.2010 - 09.2013

EA & EMEA Communications Manager

RALPH LAUREN (In-House)
04.2008 - 12.2009

Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Business

Surrey Institute of Art & Design
April Elliott-Boza Barroso