JACI RUSSO Jaci Russo is a brand management expert with 16 years of experience on the national level in a cross-section of industries. Her experience has included strategic planning, brand management, national product launches, and media management for local, regional, and national clients. Jaci began her career working at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in Los Angeles, California. While there, she worked as a Junior Talent Agent for clients such as Helen Hunt, David Letterman, Blair Underwood, Bonnie Hunt, Janine Turner, Mimi Rogers, Jennifer Grey, and Gwyneth Paltrow - developing projects, negotiating contracts, and creating opportunities. Before returning to her hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana, Jaci took on the role of Executive Assistant to Chairman and CEO, Barry Diller. As Diller’s right-hand, she coordinated the strategic planning, mergers/acquisitions and business development of six different Diller-owned companies including Home Shopping Network, Ticketmaster, USA Network, Lycos, CitySearch, and Savoy Pictures. After serving as Marketing Director for AKA Advertising and the Giles Automotive Group, Jaci co-founded The Russo Group. Only 30 years old at the time, she was an industry professional to watch. As leader of the Brand Militia at Russo, Jaci’s philosophy is clear: “Get it done, no matter what it takes.” This philosophy is practiced by the entire team at Russo, and it’s one of the reasons why so many clients have chosen Russo year after year for their marketing and advertising needs. Jaci is a member of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, serving on the Small Business and Taxation & Finance councils as well as the Healthcare Task Force. Jaci also sits on the board of Downtown Lafayette Unlimited (President Elect), American Advertising Federation, Acadiana (President Elect), and Emerald Bayou Foundation. Jaci and the agency are also involved with United Way, Boys & Girls Club, Louisiana Honor Air, Miles Perret Cancer Services, Junior League, and The Outreach Center. |