MICHAEL COWLEY-OWEN
Professional Profile

Michael is an information system generalist, working in the field of communication and business services. He offers his experience in the following:

• Video, Audio and Graphics Production
• Technical Expertise - Research and Writing
• Management - Training - Evaluation and Analysis
• Marketing - Liaison and Support

Additional information:

• Full Curriculum Vitae - Client List

Summary of Experience

Michael is actively involved as an independent video, audio and computer-based program producer and director. He gained experience working for national broadcast organizations, in Canada and in the United Kingdom, performing both technically and creatively.

He conceives, writes and produces programs on a wide variety of topics for clients in government, in the non-profit sector, and in business.

He has extensive experience in all aspects of video, audio and graphics production, from client liaison and planning, to final production and distribution.

Michael has hands-on skills in the use of the Internet and many of its tools and utilities, and is experienced in communication systems technology. He operates, "troubleshoots" and maintains electronic equipment from cameras to transmission systems, from PCs to networks.

Michael has considerable knowledge of micro-processor-based systems, and has a solid background in computer operations, systems development and programming. He has developed several innovative applications for various technologies, especially in the field of electronic graphic design during the past 10 years. He designs, set-ups and administers small computer networks (LANs).

He is familiar with a wide range of computer hardware and operating systems (notably UNIX, DOS and Windows). He has practical experience in using various applications includes word processing, spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing, communications, graphics, video editing, system utilities and networking.

Michael researches and writes on many subjects and in many styles, from the purely imaginative and creative through to very technical matters. He writes scripts, manuals, brochures, technical documents, promotional and training material for all audiences and clients with differing needs.

Michael has extensive experience in the management of complex projects, including proposal development, liaison, planning, budgeting, resource coordination (technical and human), organization, direction, evaluation, and reporting.

He uses skills in administration, finance, and personnel, managing full-time, part-time and contract staffs of up to thirty.

He has problem-solving and decision-making expertise which he uses as a consultant and as material for training programs.

Michael develops and produces practical training programs on a variety of topics. His target audiences range from senior managers in large companies, government and non-government organizations, to entry-level employees and the general public.

He has taught management, communications, creative thinking, and video production principles and practice to post-secondary students.

He trains groups and individuals in technical, operational and creative procedures.

Michael analyzes and evaluates the potential of proposals, and the effectiveness of projects and published materials. He develops and implements procedures for determining the "value-for-money" of programs, including international development projects.

He analyzes and summarizes legislation and policy documents.

He prepares job descriptions, evaluates work descriptions and organization, and prepares Pay Equity analyses and reports.

Michael undertakes marketing assignments for clients, and devises and implements communication strategies.

He produces and distributes radio and television public service announcements, advertisements, Internet pages; audio, video and graphics-based promotions, brochures, newsletters, posters, displays, press releases, and other materials designed to sensitize target audiences to a wide variety of issues.

Michael has considerable interpersonal skills and is comfortable communicating with individuals and groups at all levels, from the general public to the highest level of government and/or business.

He advises clients on working with private, government and non-profit organizations, and with the public.

He possesses well honed research skills, is quickly able to develop a working understanding and vocabulary on many subjects, and is generally knowledgeable over a broad range of expertise.

He works as a volunteer on several public issues and has designed and implemented numerous public participation projects.

He is well versed in "PR", problem-solving and communication with non-technical persons, being able to speak and write in plain English (without the use of jargon).