As director of strategic communications, Erika works with Madrona portfolio companies to amplify their most important initiatives and elevate their stories in the national, regional, and business media.

Journey to Madrona

Erika joined Madrona in 2012. Prior to coming to Madrona, she guided startups and mid-sized companies through launches, thought leadership and communications campaigns while at the SutherlandGold Group, a tech and consumer communications firm based in San Francisco. Erika has worked across a broad range of technology industries with founders to create and tell stories that resonate with media, influencers, and consumers. Before SutherlandGold, Erika was director of communications at RealNetworks, where she helped guide communications around corporate shifts in strategy, consumer product launches, and major industry initiatives. Erika started her career in technology in the early 90s working in the Microsoft Investor Relations group.

Lessons learned

Even in this world of digital, relationships matter. And seeing people in person is important!

When she’s not in the office…

Erika can be found on one of her bikes doing something epic! Or making dinner for her family and friends. Or trying a new chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Noteworthy

Erika received a bachelor’s from Bowdoin College and a master’s in library & information science from the University of Washington.