Jessica Sweeney

Jessica Sweeney is the Development Director at Salt Lake Tribune. Jessica has previous experience as an assistant finance manager, where they oversaw public relations for Visit Salt Lake (VSL). Jessica is experienced in coordinating and executing events and media tours, acting as a brand ambassador, drafting press releases, and working directly with local/national media and 500+ members.

Jessica has established 300+ media contacts as VSL spokesperson in key media markets. Jessica has received the Destination Marketing Association International 30 Under 30 Delegate award. Jessica has also garnered $1.5 million of media coverage for VSL last year and bolstered social media fans. Additionally, they organized and executed 20 PR campaigns from start to finish, including the Ski Salt Lake Shootout which included 8 international photographers, 24 professional skiers, and 200+ guests. This event led to $500,000 in editorial coverage and a $3,000 donation to Utah Avalanche Center. Jessica has also received the U.S. Travel Association Destiny Award 2014.

In terms of online media, Jessica created 24 posts to the VSL blog and 10 videos for the VSL YouTube channel. Jessica was also awarded the 2013 Alamo Top US Blogger. As head of Employee Action Committee, Jessica planned seven employee engagement activities and maintained collaboration/communication between 75 employees and company leadership. Lastly, they developed communications strategy and annual budget for travel, PR campaigns, and events.

Jessica Sweeney holds a Master of Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University and a B.S. in Mass Communication (Strategic Communication) from the University of Utah. Jessica is certified in PMPI Project Management & Process Improvement from PMI.

Jessica Sweeney reports to Lauren Gustus, Executive Editor. Jessica Sweeney works with Ian Swenson - Director, News & Audience Analytics, Rachel Crosby - Breaking News & Social Justice Editor, & Director, Internships, and Camille Durtschi - Creative Director.