Meredith Coburn
Meredith Coburn is an award-winning communications strategist and Executive & Internal Communications Manager at Delta Dental of California, where she supports enterprise culture, HR strategy, and executive leadership communications. Since graduating from college in 2012, she began her career at JPMorgan Chase in Chicago, working in marketing and communications within commercial banking. There, she built a strong foundation in corporate communications while developing lasting professional relationships with mentors who continue to influence her career today. After two and a half years, Meredith transitioned to Edelman, a global marketing communications firm, where she spent six and a half years refining her expertise in fast-paced, client-facing environments, learning the discipline, hustle, and strategic precision required to succeed in agency work.
Meredith has spent the past five years at Delta Dental of California, where she previously supported the organization as a client while at Edelman before joining internally. In her current role, she partners closely with the Chief People Officer to develop executive communications strategies that connect people operations to enterprise business strategy. Approximately 80% of her work focuses on executive and leadership communications, while the remaining 20% supports large-scale initiatives such as open enrollment, performance management, rewards programs, and strategic plan rollouts. Her work has been instrumental in helping shift the narrative around HR as a strategic business enabler, empowering employees with tools, resources, and development opportunities that help them perform at their highest potential. This year, her team also played a key role in helping shape the company’s strategic plan while serving as trusted strategic thought partners across the business.
Meredith is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications at Northwestern University, with an expected completion year of 2028. She is passionate about continuous learning across marketing, business communications, and organizational strategy. Outside of her professional work, Meredith is also a model and extra actor who enjoys creative and on-camera experiences. She loves spending time with her nephews, reading, staying active outdoors, and enjoying nature. Known for her adaptability, strategic mindset, and collaborative leadership style, Meredith blends creativity and business insight to create communications that inspire, engage, and drive meaningful organizational impact.
• E-RYT 200 Hour
• Prosci® Certified Change Practitioner
• Northwestern University - MS, Integrated Marketing Communications
• DePaul University - BA, Communication & Media
• 2016 Chicago Skyline Award: Community Relations
• Outstanding Achievement in Communication & Media
• Top Senior GPA
• International Association of Business Communicators
• Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
• JPMorgan Chase & Co.
What do you attribute your success to?
I would say ask questions - ask questions and expand your thinking. Don't be afraid to ask questions that you're worried might sound quote-unquote stupid. Don't assume that you're the only person who doesn't know the answer. Chances are there are other people in the room who also don't know, and I would say lean into opportunities that stretch your comfort. I think also, you know, remembering that your network is an ecosystem, it's not a scoreboard. I think just using those platforms to help build bridges is really important. Each time I've advocated for a teammate, or I've led a cross-functional initiative, or I've spoken up for inclusivity, I've seen how my perspective has not only mattered, but it's moved people. And I think, cumulatively, that experience has taught me that leadership isn't about perfection. It's about just showing up and being consistent. I think making sure that I'm continuing to focus on curiosity and courage is key. Lifting others, I feel, is one of the most fulfilling parts of influence. I just believe it's influence grows when it's shared, not hoarded.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I think, you know, I had a mentor share once that storytelling isn't just narrative, it's also leadership. When we share, like, not only our successes, but the lessons we've learned along the way, we create these entry points for other people to relate, to learn, to feel seen, and that's kind of how our personal brand, if you will, can become shared progress. That was just something that really resonated with me. It's not all about, you know, here's my list of accomplishments, and how I've climbed the ladder, and it's been all sunshine and roses. No, like, it's helpful to share your stumbling points and the lessons you've learned, and when you didn't always get it right, because, of course, like, we all have those moments. Nobody's perfect, and I think it just makes people at ease a bit and lets them know it's okay. You know, one mistake is not going to define you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say be curious. Don't be afraid to use your voice. I think there's something to be said for knowing the fine balance between advocating for yourself and championing your team members. You know, it's not a zero-sum game. Your teammates' success does not mean your failure, or, you know, an opportunity for your teammate does not mean something's been taken away from you. And if it feels that way, I think it could be a few things, but really try to see it as, like, there's room for all of us. You know, all of us can grow and learn. We all bring different things and strengths to the table. But make sure that you're also advocating for yourself, and making sure your voice is heard.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I'd say trust is a really big one, and inclusivity. I think one thing that I would love to see 5 years from now is influence shifting from hierarchical to relational, and that's something I'd love to play a role in. It's really important to me. Lifting others, I feel, is one of the most fulfilling parts of influence. I just believe influence grows when it's shared, not hoarded. I think impact is measured more by community growth, shared opportunities and collective advancement, or at least I would like it to be, personally. My commitment really is to learning and getting better rather than climbing the corporate ladder as fast as I can.