Melissa Barto

Melissa Barto is a senior account executive with expertise in media relations and social media. Her focus is on developing and executing dynamic PR campaigns for a variety of JCUTLER media group clients within the F&B, consumer products, tech and B2B industries. Melissa brings her innate creativity, passion for honing the perfect message and penchant for staying ahead of the latest client industry trends. Through developing strategic PR programs, securing high profile media placements and generating online buzz, Melissa has increased sales and overall ROI for JCUTLER media group’s clients. 
 
Prior to joining, Melissa helped launch nationally-recognized destinations including Noah’s Ark at Los Angeles’ famed Skirball Cultural Center, its first permanent children’s exhibit. She also helped firmly establish awareness around top Southern California restaurants including Pitfire Artisan Pizza, the Restaurant at Ponte Winery and Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern. Melissa was also instrumental in the re-launch of the star-studded Sheraton Universal Hotel after a $40 million renovation, which resulted in 50 million media impressions, a 25% increase in web traffic and new partnerships with Universal Studios. Her work has resulted in true momentum builders for clients, including regular coverage in USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times and Travel + Leisure, among other top national and local media. Melissa also has expertise in experiential marketing having overseen various programs for Don Francisco’s Coffee, Tillamook Cheese and Kellogg Company.
 
One of Melissa’s passions is implementing social media programs for clients. She has successfully driven brand awareness and sales for clients through highly engaging campaigns on Facebook and Twitter, sustaining consumer momentum through contests, events and partnerships.
 
Former clients include Kellogg Company, 7-Eleven, California Speedway, Los Angeles Auto Show, Los Angeles County Fair, Whyville.com, Riverstone Residential Group, Snowcreek Resort, The Oaks at Ojai, Bastide and Sorrento Grille.

Melissa holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.