Kim Fitzsimmons was placed as the assistant executive director of marketing and communications for the American Association of Endodontists in Chicago. The not-for-profit AAE, dedicated to excellence in the art and science of endodontics and to the highest standard of patient care, inspires its members to pursue professional advancement and personal fulfillment through education, research, advocacy, leadership, communication, and service. The AAE currently has more than 8,000 members worldwide, for whom it serves as the primary source of continuing education in endodontics, and sponsors the American Board of Endodontics, the only certifying board for the specialty. In her role, Kim is responsible for developing innovative, market-leading communications strategies for the AAE and its foundation. She conceptualizes and directs the strategic direction of marketing, communications, and public relations across many platforms to enhance the image and appreciation of endodontics and those that practice in and support the specialty, and to promote membership programs, products, and services.
Before joining the AAE, Kim served as the senior director of marketing, membership, and communications for the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists in Park Ridge, Illinois. The AANA represents more than 50,000 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and student registered nurse anesthetists nationwide, promulgating education and practice standards and guidelines, and providing consultation to both private and governmental entities regarding nurse anesthetists and their practice. As the head of the association’s first marketing and communications department, Kim was responsible for the overall direction and execution of internal and external marketing, communications, and membership efforts. During her tenure, she undertook a rebranding effort that altered the perception of the association; improved messaging, member engagement, and communications; and helped lead website redesign efforts. She achieved a 20% increase in Annual Congress attendance, and developed and implemented a marketing strategy that resulted in significant growth in corporate sponsorships and print and digital advertising. Kim’s relaunch of a member affinity program and an online learning portal led to increased revenue and an improved member experience, as well.
Previously, Kim served at the American Academy of Pediatrics in Elk Grove Village, Illinois as an audience development senior manager, digital content senior manager, digital marketing manager, and marketing and promotions specialist; at DRAFT in Chicago as an assistant account executive for healthcare advertising; at Marsh, Inc. in Chicago as an affinity program marketing coordinator; and at DBAdirect in Cincinnati, where she was involved in start-up marketing. Kim began her career in international marketing with Wesley Jesson in Chicago.
Kim is originally from Chicago. She earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing and accounting from the University of Cincinnati, and her MBA in integrated marketing communications from Roosevelt University. Kim is the parent of one son. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, spending time at the lake, and engaging with technology and social media.
