Ellen Griley

Ellen translates inscrutable corporate narratives into compelling human stories. As the head of Cisco's Global Employee Communications editorial team, she cultivates communications strategies that resonate with 85,000+ employees across cultural and generational divides. A former editor-in-chief turned corporate executive, Ellen is now pioneering a trauma-informed approach to employee communications. These methods blend data-driven insights with empathetic storytelling, creating a new framework for connecting with teams in turbulent times.

At Cisco, Ellen's team crafts sentiment-based, attention-span-targeted content that informs employees about the company's purpose and strategy, even as the world outside changes daily. Her work has redefined how the company approaches employee communications, earning industry recognition for its effectiveness and sensitivity.

Ellen's career spans journalism, healthcare, and tech — and two master’s programs. Based in Portland, Oregon, Ellen brings passion and empathy to her work. When not in slippers in her home office, she's likely researching another degree program, paddling on a river, or listening to Fleetwood Mac.