Lisa Gates is the communications and marketing director for RLI Corporation, responsible for leading the organization’s brand, communications, marketing and public relations efforts. She serves as a strategic partner with company product groups on the development and execution of product communications and marketing strategies, and is responsible for leading communication efforts with employees, as well as the development of RLI’s social media policies and strategies.
Throughout her professional career, Gates has left behind a proven track record of success, progressing quickly into management roles and assuming greater responsibilities with each position. When she worked for Tribune Interactive in Chicago, her recommendations resulted in the addition of 17 new online salespeople and an increase in revenue of 30 percent. She led project teams and initiatives that resulted in the launch of four new online businesses, all of them profitable, and was one of just 10 employees recognized for work that significantly improved company revenue, receiving the organization’s MVP Award twice. In addition, she was recognized multiple times for innovative work and strategic excellence in her prior position at Starcom Mediavest Group.
Having grown up in central Illinois, Gates quickly became an active community leader upon moving back to the area two years ago. She has served on the board of directors for the Children’s Home Foundation since 2009 and is an active member of the Junior League of Peoria, currently serving as the board’s vice president of communications. She volunteers in local schools as a third-grade reading tutor and has served in a variety of capacities with The Center for Prevention of Abuse, Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross and Easter Seals.
While working full time, Gates successfully completed her MBA at the Kellogg School of Management, and last year, she was named a member of the RLI Toastmasters Club. With strong judgment and flawless ethical values, she actively contributes her knowledge both professionally and through her dedication to volunteerism. iBi
