MARLA PUGH

I’m Passionate about Helping People Connect

I started my career in journalism, wanting to speak for people who couldn’t speak for themselves and inspire others with my writing. I won several awards for my ability to share meaningful stories. I also helped start two newspapers – a weekly community paper, and a monthly business journal – both of which exceeded business goals. This experience helped me gain a solid understanding of what it takes to start and maintain a business. It also surfaced in me an entrepreneurial spirit fueled by the need to create something new, exciting and impactful.

That experience was critical as I moved to corporate communications and took on roles of increasing importance in the automotive, high tech and pharmaceutical industries. Before starting my own consulting business, I worked at Novartis for eight years helping manage major change projects for the TechOps Division of the company and as the Head of Communications for Global Cell and Gene Therapy.

As a consultant, I’ve worked with diverse clients including Copart, Andelyn Biosciences, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and ArsenalBio. I approach each client as I would if I was a full-time employee – invested in their success and wanting to make a positive impact on their future. I’ve also helped coach leaders and individuals on how to elevate their communication skills to achieve greater success in their careers.

My passion remains similar to that which attracted me to journalism – I want to inspire others with stories that help people understand and connect to their world in more significant ways, and help others do the same.