Hi, I’m Karen Cousins. I'm a qualified journalist who currently works as a communications director and consultant for a number of global household names. I specialise in storytelling across various formats, and recently wrote and edited a book for a client that became an international bestseller within less than 24 hours. I'm passionate about blending creativity with strategy to build strong brand narratives that resonate with different audiences. Having worked with notable brands like Formula One World Champion Nico Rosberg, Oxford University, BBC, and Mercedes, I love nothing more than immersing myself in a project and producing work that makes my clients say "wow- she just gets it!". I am a people-person and love learning and growing by taking on new and exciting projects.…

Karen Cousins

Hi, I’m Karen Cousins. I'm a qualified journalist who currently works as a communications director and consultant for a number of global household names. I specialise in storytelling across various formats, and recently wrote and edited a book for a client that became an international bestseller within less than 24 hours. I'm passionate about blending creativity with strategy to build strong brand narratives that resonate with different audiences. Having worked with notable brands like Formula One World Champion Nico Rosberg, Oxford University, BBC, and Mercedes, I love nothing more than immersing myself in a project and producing work that makes my clients say "wow- she just gets it!". I am a people-person and love learning and growing by taking on new and exciting projects.…

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Karen Cousins. I’m a qualified journalist who currently works as a communications director and consultant for a number of global household names. I specialise in storytelling across various formats, and recently wrote and edited a book for a client that became an international bestseller within less than 24 hours.

I’m passionate about blending creativity with strategy to build strong brand narratives that resonate with different audiences. Having worked with notable brands like Formula One World Champion Nico Rosberg, Oxford University, BBC, and Mercedes, I love nothing more than immersing myself in a project and producing work that makes my clients say “wow- she just gets it!”. I am a people-person and love learning and growing by taking on new and exciting projects.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Communications Director at Rosberg X Racing
January 31, 2025 - July 22, 2025
Led global communications, PR strategy, and digital/social media for Nico Rosberg’s two-time world championship-winning Extreme E racing team. Authored trending thought leadership pieces and scripts for videos featuring drivers, scientists, celebrities, and thought leaders. Managed media relations, press conferences, crisis communications, and sponsor relationships, achieving billions in media reach and multiple awards for sustainability campaigns and brand leadership.
Communications Director and Writer at Make It Happen, Spencer Lodge
February 1, 2020 - July 22, 2025
Ghostwrote the Amazon #1 bestseller 'Making It Happen: The Ultimate Guide to Selling' and developed multi-platform brand messaging, content strategy, and PR initiatives for Spencer Lodge and his online sales university. Led content creation including weekly e-books, sales funnel content, and motivational videos that frequently trended on social media.
Freelance Communications Consultant at Self-employed
February 1, 2020 - Present
Managed multiple high-profile clients in corporate communications, copywriting, social media, brand strategy, and thought leadership. Key projects included content and communications strategy for EIT InnoEnergy, Nico Rosberg’s LinkedIn content and collaborations, Africa Practice, Carbon Centrum, Liberty Vuka Knowledge Summit, Provident Real Estate, Avy & Dan, and the International Jazz Extravaganza.
Head of Digital | PR Strategist at Hill+Knowlton Strategies
April 1, 2017 - July 22, 2025
Led digital and social media, PR, internal marketing and communications strategy for a global public relations firm. Worked on clients like P&G, Shell, Citrix, and others, developing multi-platform digital campaigns that increased brand visibility by 70%. Identified new business opportunities, led proposals, secured strategic partnerships, and managed stakeholder engagement and media training workshops.
Digital Media Specialist | PR Manager | Strategist at Total Exposure
May 1, 2016 - July 22, 2025
Managed PR, strategy, digital and social media for high-profile entertainment and corporate brands like BBC, MTV, Sony Entertainment, and Audi South Africa. Handled all online content, media strategy, digital advertising, and campaign management to enhance brand reputation and visibility.
Social Media Strategist | Accounts Executive at Famous Brands / Sauce Advertising
September 1, 2014 - July 22, 2025
Developed and executed social media, digital marketing, and copywriting strategies for Famous Brands, managing well-known consumer food brands. Managed advertising, website content, social media engagement, and led radio and TV campaigns that trended on social media.
Journalist | News Reporter at HEAT Magazine (Media24 Group)
June 30, 2012 - July 22, 2025
Wrote high-profile news features, interviews, and lifestyle content. Managed celebrity interviews, editorial strategy, media relations, and acted as brand ambassador with appearances on weekly TV and radio segments.

Education

Bachelor of Arts at University of Pretoria
January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2011
Bachelor of Journalism at Rhodes University
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2009

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Energy & Utilities, Professional Services, Real Estate & Construction, Education