Hi, I’m Kristen Parker

I’m an Agile project manager and creative communications strategist with a deep passion for systems and structures and purpose-driven work.

Over the last 7+ years, I’ve led communications, branding, and project workflows across nonprofits, tribal governments, and mission-based companies—from building out communications departments from scratch to rolling out enterprise tools like Asana.

In 2025, I stepped into the role of Interim VP of Communications at GRID Alternatives, helping guide our team through a leadership transition while continuing to support cross-functional strategy, team alignment, and storytelling at scale. Whether I’m planning a sprint, facilitating a creative brainstorm, or helping shape a brand’s voice, I care deeply about thoughtful execution and clear communication.

When I’m not managing projects or designing workflows, you’ll find me running my design studio Bullhead Designs, where I partner with small businesses, community builders, and change-makers to bring their creative visions to life.

What I Do Best:

  • Agile & Scrum Project Management – Sprint planning, retrospectives, backlog prioritization, and team facilitation

  • Creative Operations & Communications Strategy – Aligning vision, voice, and deliverables across multi-disciplinary teams

  • Workflow Design & Tools Implementation – Asana, Jira, Trello, MS Teams, and building systems that work for real people

  • Brand Development & Visual Design – Story-driven messaging and identity systems rooted in clarity and intention

My Career Experience

Sr. Communications Manager - GRID Alternatives

Clean Energy Nonprofit | Remote | Feb 2023 - Present

  • Stepped into the Interim VP role in 2025, overseeing department strategy, team leadership, and organization-wide communications priorities.

  • Led Agile planning and sprint cycles across national marketing, workforce, philanthropy, and tribal outreach teams.

  • Rolled out Asana Enterprise, creating workflows, intake forms, and reporting systems adopted org-wide.

  • Managed rebranding efforts and content consolidation across 6 regional offices.

  • Collaborated on key deliverables including grant proposals, impact reports, and digital campaigns.

Design & Branding Agency | Aguanga, CA | May 2021 – Present

Creative Director & Owner - Bullhead Designs, LLC

  • Founded and grew a creative studio supporting small businesses, tribal organizations, and mission-driven brands.

  • Delivered end-to-end branding packages—naming, logo, messaging, websites, design strategy, and visual storytelling.

  • Managed multi-channel campaigns and creative assets with Agile-inspired workflows.

  • Balanced creative direction, project timelines, and production for print, digital, and event collateral.

Tribal Government | Temecula, CA | Sep 2021 – Feb 2022

Communications Specialist - Pechanga Band of Indians

  • Helped establish a formal communications department, building internal systems and brand guidelines.

  • Produced emergency messaging, cultural event marketing, and internal newsletters.

  • Created a full-length community magazine, supported by photography, design, and interviews.

  • Managed signage, slideshows, and community outreach across departments.

Communications Manager - Simba Group

East African Conglomeration | Kampala, Uganda | Sep 2019 – Mar 2020

  • Led a youth employment initiative in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, focused on job creation for refugee girls.

  • Rolled out Microsoft Outlook org-wide to streamline internal communication.

  • Managed the planning, design, and launch of a new corporate website.

  • Coordinated media, government, and NGO stakeholders to bring program goals to life.

Education & Certifications

  • Scrum Alliance Certified, 2023

    100+ SEUs (Scrum Education Units), 2024

  • Emory University

    2025

  • Fort Lewis College, 2013 - 2017

  • 2020

  • 2020

  • Power Life, Des Moines