Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Recommendations
Timeline
Generic
CHARA VARVARESOU

CHARA VARVARESOU

PR, Internal Comms & CSR Specialist
Athens,I

Summary

Results-oriented Marketing & CSR professional with a strong background in corporate communication, stakeholder engagement, and brand positioning. Proven expertise in developing integrated PR strategies, managing internal communication, and executing CSR initiatives that align with business goals and drive social impact. Skilled in creating engaging content, strengthening internal communication, and cultivating partnerships to enhance corporate reputation. Passionate about sustainability, storytelling, and fostering a strong corporate culture.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
4
4
Certifications

Work History

PR, Internal Communication & CSR Specialist

Praktiker Hellas
09.2023 - Current
  • Designed and executed a comprehensive 360° PR strategy that significantly strengthened brand reputation and visibility across multiple platforms.
  • Developed and maintained media relations with key journalists, editors, and industry influencers, securing consistent media placements in top-tier publications and outlets, resulting in a 70% increase in media coverage and brand awareness
  • Monitored and analyzed the effectiveness of PR campaigns , measuring media reach, sentiment, and audience engagement, and providing actionable insights for future communications strategies.
  • Organized and executed large-scale press events, conferences, and expos all over Greece (e.g., HORECA, XENIA etc)
  • Managed crisis communication protocols , ensuring brand consistency and minimizing PR risks through effective messaging and timely responses.
  • Developed and implemented internal communication strategy ensuring consistent messaging across 1200 employees within the organization.
  • Managed internal magazine production (3 issues per year), newsletters, and engaging intranet content, including blog posts, employee spotlights, videos, and interactive polls, strengthening internal communication and employee engagement.
  • Coordinated internal events and workshops for 1200 employees, focusing on team-building, professional development, and overall well-being, improving employee engagement and satisfaction.
  • Organized and distributed festive gifts for all Praktiker's employees and their children during key times of the year (e.g., Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day, 1st March, 1st May, Summer, etc.), ensuring employees felt valued and promoting an inclusive and positive work environment.
  • Led the creation and implementation of gamification projects for employees, helping them internalize key organizational values while enhancing teamwork, company pride, and overall employee morale.
  • Led and implemented Praktiker's 2 CSR Strategic Programs focused on inclusivity and sustainability, engaging over 500 employees and impacting 1000+ beneficiaries within local communities.
  • Led and coordinated Praktiker's volunteer team, "PraktiCares" , organizing impactful CSR initiatives that resulted in an 80% increase in employee participation, nurturing a culture of social responsibility and community engagement.
  • Cultivated and maintained strategic partnerships with NGOs, corporate stakeholders, and community organizations, amplifying CSR efforts and enhancing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Marketing Coordinator & CSR

Up Hellas S.A
01.2022 - 08.2023
  • Acted as Marketing Manager (Team of 3) during maternity leave, overseeing the full spectrum of marketing operations, ensuring continuity and maintaining the performance of the marketing function.
  • Developed and executed targeted marketing strategies , successfully positioning the brand and engaging key demographics through tailored campaigns.
  • Coordinated internal and external marketing events (e.g Boussias Conferences , KPMG Events etc ) enhancing the company's visibility and fostering key industry relationships through high-profile conferences and expos.
  • Managed marketing budgets, ensuring alignment with company objectives and optimizing resource allocation to maximize campaign effectiveness.
  • Led end-to-end marketing campaigns , driving measurable increases in brand awareness and customer acquisition through organic and paid channels.
  • Created and maintained brand-aligned marketing materials , ensuring consistency across all communication assets, including website banners, brochures, and digital content.
  • Built strategic partnerships with media and advertising agencies , securing high-impact placements that elevated brand visibility and maximized campaign results.
  • Developed content strategies , creating a content calendar that ensured consistent messaging across all social media & website , driving engagement and brand loyalty.
  • Generated new business leads by identifying and capitalizing on marketing opportunities and emerging trends, contributing to business growth.
  • Trained internal departments on new products and features, fostering cross-functional collaboration and enhancing the effectiveness of sales and customer service teams.

Business Developer

Up Hellas S.A
01.2021 - 01.2022
  • Ιdentified and researched potential clients through diverse platforms and tools, driving new business opportunities and contributing to the growth of the company's client portfolio.
  • Created and shared engaging content on social media and digital platforms, enhancing brand visibility and thought leadership, while establishing the company as an authority in the industry.
  • Cross-sold and upsold solutions to existing clients, increasing revenue and strengthening client relationships by offering tailored services that met evolving business needs.
  • Handled and qualified incoming leads , ensuring smooth transitions from initial contact to sales conversion, with a focus on delivering personalized, value-driven proposals.
  • Trained and mentored newcomers to the team, equipping them with necessary tools, resources, and knowledge to succeed in business development and achieve set targets.
  • Supported and coordinated CSR activities and events , enhancing brand reputation and contributing to the company's engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Sales Operator

TNL GREECE S.A
10.2016 - 07.2018
  • Prepared detailed financial offers for shipping clients, ensuring accurate pricing and tailored solutions that met specific client requirements.
  • Issued and renewed contracts for ships, ensuring compliance with company policies and smooth processing of client agreements.
  • Organized and participated in industry events and shipping expos (such as Posidonia) , representing the company and establishing valuable business connections within the maritime sector.
  • Communicated with clients and suppliers globally , identifying and evaluating their needs while promoting the company's products and services, resulting in enhanced customer relationships.
  • Updated and maintained client databases using a CRM system, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for efficient lead management and sales follow-up.

Internship

Greek Secretariat of Greeks Abroad at Ministry of Foreign
12.2015 - 03.2016
  • Designed, organized, and managed cultural projects , ensuring smooth execution and alignment with organizational goals, while enhancing public relations and community engagement.
  • Liaised with Greek communities abroad , handling correspondence on relevant matters, promoting cultural exchange, and strengthening international relationships.
  • Reviewed and validated financial documents , supporting the Financial Department with document checks to ensure compliance and accuracy in financial processes

Sales Promoter

Green Promotions
11.2012 - 09.2015
  • Increased customer interest by conducting engaging product demonstrations and providing detailed information on features and benefits.
  • Recommended specific product options to meet customer needs.
  • Identified interest in customers by explaining products and services and initiating conversations.
  • Communicated clearly and displayed positive energy and professional outward appearance to foster welcoming environment.

Education

MBA - Marketing Specialization

University of Piraeus
11.2018 - 12.2020

Bachelor in Political Science & Public Administration -

National & Kapodistrian University of Athens
10.2012 - 01.2017

Skills

Certification

Corporate Ethics & Social Responsibility : Athens University of Economics

Recommendations

Available upon request

Timeline

PR, Internal Communication & CSR Specialist

Praktiker Hellas
09.2023 - Current

Marketing Coordinator & CSR

Up Hellas S.A
01.2022 - 08.2023

Business Developer

Up Hellas S.A
01.2021 - 01.2022

MBA - Marketing Specialization

University of Piraeus
11.2018 - 12.2020

Sales Operator

TNL GREECE S.A
10.2016 - 07.2018

Internship

Greek Secretariat of Greeks Abroad at Ministry of Foreign
12.2015 - 03.2016

Sales Promoter

Green Promotions
11.2012 - 09.2015

Bachelor in Political Science & Public Administration -

National & Kapodistrian University of Athens
10.2012 - 01.2017
CHARA VARVARESOUPR, Internal Comms & CSR Specialist