SPOTLIGHT: LAURA BRUSCA

Chief Communications Officer, Forbes

Laura Brusca serves as Chief Strategy Officer at NYWICI and her day job is Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications at Forbes.

An accomplished and award-winning communications executive, Laura exerts influence that shapes the modern-day narrative at one of the world’s most-storied media brands. She has a dozen years of significant corporate communications/reputation management experience, gleaned from in-house and agency roles, where she worked with established global brands. Throughout her career, she has steered brands in challenged industries, helping to position them in highly competitive environments and driving employee passion and pride.

On top of everything, Laura serves on three other boards: the 2022 Communications Week board, the US board of Brass for Africa, a charity that delivers music education integrated with life-skills training, and Superlost Coffee, a Bushwick-based coffee roaster.

Why she does what she does…
“At the heart of it, I’m a storyteller. I thrive in fast-paced environments where I can help brands that are undergoing significant transformation articulate their stories.”

Why she’s drawn to NYWICI…
“NYWICI is a true sisterhood of strong and smart women who push you to grow and be your best self.”

Her favorite social media platform…
“Instagram. I love the visual nature of the platform. I even have an (almost) famous Instagram dog: @littlelucygoose.”

At the top of her trend-watching list is…
“Right now, I’ve got my eye on platforms that drive engagement and build communities—like podcasts, newsletters, connected-devices and social storytelling. I’m also watching closely how brands are responding to world events.”

Off the clock, really…
“I’m a new mom, so I’ve really been enjoying watching my little one grow and helping him to learn new things. It’s pretty incredible!”

Her nirvana…
“Beach walks just about everywhere—especially on Maui or Nantucket. Taking in moments when the sun is shining, and the sound of the waves welcomes relaxation.”

Did you know…
“At the start of my career, I helped to launch a malaria treatment for children in Africa and managed the launch event in Tanzania.”

Day to relive…
“The day I married my wonderful husband Andrew. It was an incredible day being surrounded by all of our favorite people.”

Words to live by…
“I have two to share. The first is from Simon Sinek, who said ‘Don’t quit. Never give up trying to build the world you can see, even if others can’t see it. Listen to your drum and your drum only. It’s the one that makes the sweetest sound.’ The second comes from yours truly, which is to ‘be a journalist in your own organization. Ask questions and investigate to uncover the untold stories that people need to hear.’”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN THE NYWICI BOARD OF DIRECTORS?

I’ve always been passionate about supporting other women and I wanted to help the next generation of leaders as they embark upon their own career journeys.

WHAT PIECE OF CAREER ADVICE DO YOU LIVE BY?

“Don’t ask permission” – that was advice one of my managers gave me a few years back and it’s inspired me to take risks, try new things and to be bold.

WHAT’S SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I played violin through college and music has always been an important part of my life. I think playing music at a young age really inspires creativity and when you play in an orchestra, everyone has to work together in a way unlike any other.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING YOU’VE WATCHED, LISTENED TO AND/OR READ IN THE PAST MONTH?

“14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible” which is a documentary following a Nepalese mountaineer who attempts to climb all 14 of the highest mountain peaks within a record time of under 7 months. It’s a story about bravery, not giving up and achieving the impossible.

Five Questions for Laura: