Break the Ice Media expands team and elevates leadership to drive growth
Agency recently recognized for its commitment to diversity and collaboration with Carey Gabay Excellence and Innovation Award from New York State MWBE Division.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Break the Ice Media (BTI), a leading travel and tourism marketing agency, is thrilled to announce the strategic expansion of its team with the addition of three new members.
Riley Kruer joins BTI as an Associate Consultant of Public Relations and Marketing. A new professional hailing from Michigan, Riley will support clients through developing and writing content, implementing strategies and executing client project plans. He received his Bachelor of Applied Arts, Public Relations from Central Michigan University and holds several certifications within the marketing and communications landscape.
Jordan Herson, a 2021 graduate of Ithaca College with a B.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications, has joined BTI as a Travel Trade Coordinator. With three years of valuable experience at a Convention & Visitors Bureau-Chamber of Commerce, she brings a solid understanding of the travel industry and a strong passion for tourism marketing. In her new role, Jordan will serve as the primary support for all travel trade clients. She currently resides in Ithaca, NY.
Adrienne Currie joins BTI as the Community & Marketing Manager, a new role for the agency that includes creating company growth strategies and overseeing the internal marketing program. She brings extensive expertise in travel engagement and marketing strategy working with a tour operator and as a travel advisor. Adrienne resides in Calgary, Canada, which furthers the agency’s knowledge and resources across the border, allowing for an even greater reach for clients and partners.
BTI is also pleased to announce the promotions of four existing team members.
Rhonda Carges has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations.
Lisa Doerner has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships.
Camille Zess has been promoted to Vice President of Digital & Growth.
Sarah Martin has been promoted to Vice President of Client Services.
This strategic growth is a testament to Break the Ice Media’s dedication to fostering talent and emphasizing internal growth. Each member of the expanded team brings unique skills and perspectives that will enhance the agency’s capabilities and offerings.
“We are thrilled to welcome Riley, Jordan, and Adrienne to our team and are confident that their expertise will contribute to our continued success,” says Nicole Mahoney, CEO of BTI. “These additions, coupled with the promotions of our existing team members, position us for even greater achievements in the future.”
Carey Gabay Excellence and Innovation Award
In addition to team expansion and promotions, Break the Ice Media (BTI) has been honored with the Carey Gabay Excellence and Innovations Award by the New York State Division of Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses (MWBE). This recognition comes as BTI stands out among five exceptional businesses acknowledged for their outstanding contributions.
The Carey Gabay Award recognizes a select number of businesses for their entrepreneurial spirit and achievement in NYS contracting. The award was presented to BTI at the 13th Annual New York State MWBE Forum on Nov. 14.
“We believe in the power of working together, and collaborating with NYS Division of Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses not only helps our company grow but enables us to support the growth of our clients and partners throughout NYS,” said Mahoney. “It is an honor to be recognized. Our team takes pride in the work we do to support NYS tourism, and receiving this award motivates us to continue to deliver excellence.”
Break the Ice Media looks forward to a future of expansion, innovation, and continued success as the agency builds on its strong foundation and embraces new opportunities, both as a leader in the NYS business community and the global travel and tourism industry.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.