Karen Bakar
About Karen Bakar
Karen Bakar is a Public Relations Manager with extensive experience in marketing and communications across various organizations. She currently works at Metrolink and has held significant roles at AC Transit, Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority, and other institutions, demonstrating her expertise in crisis communications and media relations.
Work at Metrolink Trains
Karen Bakar has been serving as the Public Relations Manager at Metrolink since 2022. In this role, she oversees communication strategies and public relations efforts for the organization, which operates commuter rail services in Southern California. Her responsibilities include managing media relations, crafting press releases, and enhancing the public image of Metrolink. Bakar's expertise in crisis communications and media relations plays a significant role in her current position, ensuring effective communication during unexpected events.
Previous Experience in Public Relations and Marketing
Before joining Metrolink, Karen Bakar held several key positions in public relations and marketing. She worked at the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority as Marketing & Communications Principal from 2013 to 2022, where she developed marketing strategies for the regional rail service. Prior to that, she served as Marketing Administrator at AC Transit from 2006 to 2013, focusing on public transit communications in the Oakland area. Bakar also gained experience as Marketing & Communications Manager at Jewish Family & Children's Services of the East Bay for 11 months in 2006.
Education and Expertise
Karen Bakar holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Brown University, which she completed from 1985 to 1989. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Arts in International Relations from Tufts University - The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in 2006. Additionally, she earned a Certificate in Multimedia Storytelling from UC Berkeley's Graduate School of Journalism in 2019. Bakar's educational background supports her expertise in crisis communications and media relations, essential for her roles in the transportation and travel industries.
Freelance Writing and Community Involvement
From 2016 to 2019, Karen Bakar worked as a Freelance Writer for Matcha, where she contributed content that aligned with her marketing and communications skills. Her commitment to community involvement is evident throughout her career, as she has engaged in initiatives aimed at building relationships and fostering community support. This dedication enhances her effectiveness in public relations roles, allowing her to connect with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Career Timeline and Progression
Karen Bakar's career spans several decades, beginning with her role as Regional Manager at EF Education First from 1989 to 1994, where she was later promoted to Marketing Director. She transitioned to various positions, including Director of Marketing at GreatSchools from 1998 to 2000, and Communications Director at Church Divinity School of the Pacific from 1996 to 1998. Her extensive experience in marketing and communications has shaped her professional journey, leading to her current role at Metrolink.