Nepherterra Estrada Best is an award-winning PR executive you might recognize from Pride Magazine, a Black-owned magazine here in Charlotte.
She has worked with government, corporate and nonprofit clients.
Now, she will use her skills in a new position as Vice President of Integrated Communications for CMRignite, a marketing and social impact agency based in Best’s hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Check out our Q&A with Best below.
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Responses are edited form clarity and brevity.
What made you transition?
My goal is always to add value. CMRignite is the nation’s largest minority-owned cause marketing and social impact agency that recently earned a spot on the INC 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies.
The agency is based in my hometown of Milwaukee, so I’ve watched them grow from 15 to 65 people over the last few years. Their growth and research-first approach have inspired me, so when the opportunity to step into the Vice President of Integrated Communications role was presented to me, I was excited about adding value on a national level.
It was a unique opportunity to lead, learn and make an impact in a meaningful way.
What are you most excited about?
It happened organically and felt like a natural next step in my professional career. I am excited that my experience as an entrepreneur allows me to bring a unique perspective to my new role as I work to build out the firm’s Public Relations Department.
I am also grateful to serve in this leadership role with a diverse team of 70% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+, and/or people with disabilities.
What will a typical workday look like?
When you work in an agency, every day is different.
A typical workday involves me working with the agency’s executive leadership team, leading the firm’s PR team, working with clients on their PR and marketing strategies, and working on the agency’s national marketing plan.
Will you be leaving Charlotte?
Another great thing about this opportunity is that it is 100% virtual, so I will still be here in Charlotte.
I may be in Milwaukee more which means I get to see my mom, brothers, nephews, and nieces, so that’s a win-win.