Aaron Blank

Aaron Blank is an American public relations executive and communications professional. He is the chief executive officer and president of Fearey, a public relations and communications agency based in Seattle, Washington.

Blank began his career in broadcasting, working as a reporter, anchor, producer, and promoter for radio stations in New York and Connecticut. He later moved to Seattle and began working in public relations. He joined Fearey in 2005 and subsequently became president and owner of the company.

Early life and education

Aaron Blank studied at Quinnipiac University, where he earned a bachelor's degree. Before entering public relations, he spent approximately five years working in radio as a reporter, anchor, producer, and promoter in New York and Connecticut.

He moved to Seattle in the early 2000s and began his career in the public relations industry after joining Fearey.

Career

Aaron Blank joined Fearey in 2005 as a senior account executive. During his time at the agency, he became involved in developing its healthcare practice and digital communications work. The company has credited him with helping develop approaches to social media and digital content that it described as "Social Media Journalism."

In 2013, Fearey announced that Blank would acquire the company from its founder, Patricia Fearey. The transaction made him the firm's owner and placed him in the roles of president and chief executive officer beginning in January 2014.

Under Blank's leadership, Fearey expanded its work across public relations, public affairs, digital marketing, social media, and communications. In 2023, Seattle Magazine reported on the company's remote-work structure and its approach to organizational culture under Blank's leadership.

Professional organizations

In 2018, Blank was elected president-elect of the Public Relations Global Network (PRGN). The following year, PRGN members elected him as the organization's 27th president. He served a one-year term leading the international network of independent public relations agencies.

During his presidency, PRGN represented independent agencies operating across multiple international markets. Blank subsequently served as the organization's immediate past president and chair of its Advisory Board.

Aaron Blank has also been involved with organizations including the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and ArtsFund.

Recognition

In 2015, Blank was selected for the Puget Sound Business Journal's 40 Under 40 list, which recognizes young business leaders in the Seattle-area business community.

In 2020, he was named to PRWeek's 40 Under 40, an annual recognition of public relations professionals in the United States.

Fearey was also included on Forbes America’s Best PR Firms list, with the company listed at No. 4 in the 2021 ranking.

Community involvement

Aaron Blank has participated in civic and charitable activities in the Seattle region. His organizational affiliations have included the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, ArtsFund, and other nonprofit and professional organizations.

External links

• Official Website
• Aaron Blank on LinkedIn