Karen Kennedy Downs

Karen Kennedy Downs is an experienced communications and marketing professional currently serving as the Chief Communications Officer and Chief Marketing Officer (Interim) at the American Cancer Society since January 2015. With a strong background in direct marketing and operations, Karen has held multiple senior leadership positions, including Senior Vice President for Direct Marketing & Operations and Enterprise Business Operations. Prior to this role, Karen was the Director of New Business Development at CARE, overseeing growth initiatives and digital fundraising strategies. Additionally, Karen has worked as Production Manager at Grizzard Communications Group, managing projects for a large portfolio of accounts. Karen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a focus in Public Relations from The University of Alabama.