Mara Pillinger

Background

About Mara Pillinger

An experienced strategic communicator and relationship manager, I make things happen behind the scenes, advising leaders and supporting organizations to advance their objectives. Whether the goal is to expand influence and impact, respond to crises, or shape policies and public conversations, I create winning strategies, craft compelling messaging, build partnerships, and execute seamlessly in high-stakes contexts. WHAT I'VE DONE Managed high-value, politically sensitive relationships (e.g, USAID’s relationship with WHO) Led strategic communications and external relations in crises (e.g, mpox & Ebola outbreak response) Built policy advocacy coalitions (e.g, a global multisectoral network of HIV advocates) Advised on high-impact investments (e.g,$1B+ to build global pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response capacity) Influenced national and multilateral policies to advance organizational priorities (e.g, during treaty negotiations) WHAT I DO: Strategic Communications, Advocacy, & Thought Leadership: developing strategies, crafting messaging, pitching stories, and creating other opportunities to help organizations navigate crises, elevate their influence, drive outcomes, and communicate impact. 🧭 Strategy Development: defining strategic objectives, positioning, and approaches, underpinned by incisive analysis of the landscape—especially political, policy, and scientific developments, risks, and opportunities. 🤝Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Building: developing engagement strategies, managing communications with diverse stakeholders, and building relationships to turn stakeholders into partners. Negotiation & Consensus Building: listening, uncovering hidden win-win opportunities, aligning interests, assembling coalitions, and finding ways to get to “yes”. Project & Process Management: managing complex decision processes and coordinating cross-functional and multinational teams to manage risk, improve performance, and deliver results, especially high-stakes context. Data-Driven Insights: interpreting complex information for diverse audiences and generating clear recommendations for decision-makers.