Donavan Thomas
About Donavan Thomas
Donavan Thomas serves as the Employee Communications Lead at DPR Construction, bringing extensive experience in brand and internal communications from previous roles at McDermott Will & Emery and CEB, now Gartner. He holds a BA in Public Relations from Penn State University and has developed a strong skill set in employee engagement and crisis management throughout his career.
Work at DPR Construction
Donavan Thomas serves as the Employee Communications Lead at DPR Construction since 2022. In this role, he focuses on developing and implementing communication strategies that enhance employee engagement and align with the company's brand and employee value proposition (EVP). His responsibilities include advising leadership on internal communications, ensuring that messages resonate effectively with employees, and fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration within the organization.
Previous Experience at McDermott Will & Emery
Before joining DPR Construction, Donavan Thomas held multiple roles at McDermott Will & Emery. He worked as the Associate Director of Brand & Internal Communications for a brief period in 2022. Prior to that, he served as the Senior Brand and Communications Manager from 2019 to 2021, and as the Marketing Communications Manager from 2017 to 2018. His tenure at McDermott Will & Emery allowed him to refine his skills in brand management and internal communications.
Career Background at CEB, now Gartner
Donavan Thomas has extensive experience at CEB, now Gartner, where he held several positions from 2012 to 2017. He began as a Brand and Public Relations Specialist, later advancing to Senior Public Relations Analyst, and then to PR Manager. His work involved managing public relations strategies and contributing to the company's brand development. This experience provided him with a strong foundation in communications and public relations.
Education and Expertise
Donavan Thomas earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Penn State University. His academic background includes studies in business and English, which have contributed to his effective communication skills. His education, combined with diverse roles in communications and marketing, equips him with a well-rounded perspective on influencing both internal and external audiences.
Early Career and Development Roles
In the early stages of his career, Donavan Thomas worked in various roles that focused on talent development and learning. He served as a Training Officer at Strayer University and as a Campus Director Leadership Program Coordinator. Additionally, he gained experience as an intern with the Philadelphia Flyers in community relations. These positions involved conveying complex topics and coaching individuals, which helped shape his approach to employee engagement and communication strategies.