Jillian Smith

Background

About Jillian Smith

I'm a results-driven communications and content leader with 18 years of experience in creating high-impact communication strategies across public and private technology companies. I began my career working closely with authors at Random House, learning the art of storytelling and audience engagement and loyalty. Then, I realized there was opportunity (and challenge) in creating publishing teams within growing tech companies, starting at SendGrid. Through SendGrid’s IPO and acquisition by Twilio, I was able to tell stories and measure their impact while building quality and consistent content engines at scale. At DigitalOcean, I expanded my scope beyond content, integrating strategic content development with comms, including PR, internal communications, social media, brand development, and executive and crisis communications, along with another IPO. At LaunchDarkly, I’ve broadened further into analyst relations and talent brand, creating an even richer approach to shaping internal and external corporate identity. My approach is detail-oriented, results-driven, and team-first. I lead with empathy, but am also no-nonsense. I like context, so I do my best to provide the same in return. I believe that the best ideas come through conversation (often over lots of coffee!), and I take pride in building high-impact, positive teams. I’m happiest when I’m challenged and know that I’m making a real impact and am most proud of my work guiding companies through complex change management and high-stakes communication initiatives—like IPO readiness and acquisitions. When not working, I’m happily with my kiddos and husband…or on the tennis court!