Press release submitted on behalf of Next Step.

Next Step Communications has hired a veteran B2B journalist to lead its content creation efforts for clients in the plastics, tooling and converting industries.

New Chief Content Officer Karen Hanna joins the agency after more than 11 years as a trade journalist, most recently as a senior staff writer for Plastics Machinery & Manufacturing (PMM). With over two decades of journalism and editorial experience, her work has focused heavily on manufacturing, industrial technology and the plastics industry, giving her a deep understanding of the markets and customers served by many of Next Step’s clients. She has earned recognition for both her writing and reporting.

Next Step President Mark Malloy — who was one of the founders of PMM, when it was known as Plastics Machinery Magazine — said he’s looking forward to teaming up with Hanna again at Next Step, where she can draw on her relationships within the industry to help clients increase their visibility and market engagement through quality storytelling.

“Her experience, editorial judgment and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission of helping clients tell their stories across multiple platforms in compelling ways,” he said. “She’ll be able to help clients see their technologies and offerings through the perspective of a journalist, to help them win earned media opportunities, and to communicate their value effectively to their customers and prospective customers.”

In her new role, Hanna will lead content development initiatives for Next Step Communications clients, creating high-quality written content that supports brand visibility, thought leadership, marketing objectives and audience engagement.

Hanna said she is grateful for the opportunity.

“I’m excited to join Next Step Communications and collaborate with clients who are advancing the next generation of industrial innovations. Having worked at PMM, I am familiar with many of the companies I look forward to serving. They’re great people, and I know we’ll do great work together.”

The addition of Hanna further strengthens Next Step Communications’ commitment to delivering strategic communications, content marketing and public relations services that help clients grow by increasing their visibility, credibility and engagement within their markets.

About Next Step Communications Inc.
Founded in 1996, Next Step Communications Inc. is a B2B public relations and marketing communications firm with a focus on the plastics, tooling and converting industries. The company specializes in content creation for its clients. From advertising and PR campaigns to social media management, from video production to trade show support, Next Step Communications Inc. helps clients tell their stories and build brand recognition.