Today we’re highlighting Susan Buehler, Executive Vice President of Bellevue Communications Group, who has been a PPRA member for approximately 14 years. Susan has nearly 14 years of media and strategic communications experience and is responsible for managing some of Bellevue’s largest clients and spearheading their firm’s media training and crisis communications efforts. In 2015, she was named Woman of Distinction by The Philadelphia Business Journal.

Twitter: @BuehlerMedia

Facebook: Susan Buehler

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/susan-buehler-18863b1

PPRA: Susan, tell us a bit about your background.

SB: I began my career in television news and served in various positions including as a reporter, anchor, producer and managing editor. My tour of duty includes Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Des Moines, Iowa and Fox 29 in Philadelphia. In addition to 15 years of television news experience, I served as a spokesperson for PECO Energy in Philadelphia handling media inquiries, crisis communications and emergency response drills.

I grew up in Bucks County and am honored to be nominated four times for an Emmy Award for general assignment reporting and breaking news. In 2001, I was among a team of reporters and producers that won an Emmy for extended coverage of a breaking news story, the Pier Collapse on Delaware Avenue. I serve on the Board of Governors for the Philly Ad Club and the Board of Trustees for the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

I bleed orange as a result of my Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University, but I recently enrolled in Temple University’s Master of Strategic Communications program.

PPRA: Who are your clients and/or what projects are you working on right now?

SB: I have great clients including Citizens Bank, Campbell Soup Company, Philadelphia Works, NHS Human Services, Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, Ronald McDonald House of South Jersey and the Occupational Training Center of Burlington County, to name a few. Bellevue Communications also works with Reading Terminal Market, PREIT, Philadelphia 2016, and the PA Convention Center Authority.

PPRA: What is your favorite part about your job?

SB: Variety. I love variety. It’s probably my news background. Every day is different with each client having a different problem or circumstance that needs attention. I thrive on helping clients spread the word about their great programs and accomplishments, as well as thinking outside the box to help solve a problem or crisis.

PPRA: What was your latest and greatest accomplishment at your job?

SB: I recently won a Women of Distinction award which was quite an honor, and I am taking great pleasure in watching our firm grow and expand. I try to have a major accomplishment for a client every week!

PPRA: What one piece of advice would you give to your fellow PR pros?

SB: Think and listen. Often times people don’t listen to what a client needs and wants. It’s crucial to anticipate issues before they arise and always be prepared to answer the tough questions good reporters will ask.

PPRA: What book or movie could you read or watch again and again?

SB: Movies are easy. Despite what some people might think, I’m a softie for a happy ending. I have watched Pretty Woman many, many times. I also like an Officer and a Gentleman, and for action I like Top Gun. I married a Navy Pilot!

For books, I enjoy autobiographies and business books. I like to see how people got where they are and why. I’m reading Lean In, Good to Great and Knowing Your Value: Women, Money and Getting What Your Worth.

PPRA: What’s your favorite spot in Philly?

SB: I love walking along Independence Mall and visiting the Liberty Bell. I am in awe of the history that occurred in Philadelphia. Sitting in Rittenhouse Square or biking Kelly Drive are also favorites. During the holidays, I never miss the Comcast Holiday Spectacular or the Macy’s Light Show!