SOAR's Tips for a Brighter Business Holiday

Chris Lawton, SOAR's web development expert, brings over 39 years of experience in information technology. Chris served as the architect and director of IT and Enterprise Architecture for a US company in the US and Europe, where he was responsible for business systems across the continent. He led the team in implementing innovative solutions that streamlined business processes and improved efficiency. Additionally, Chris worked at Coca-Cola in Atlanta, where he was the architect developing and implementing strategies that enhanced website performance and ensured optimal user experience for 650 global websites and their infrastructure.

Chris also served as the CTO for a federal contractor working with government agencies, where he was responsible for developing and implementing innovative technology solutions to meet complex requirements.

In 2007, Chris founded "Not Just Anyone LLC, (NJA.ai)" a Technical Managed Services, Consulting and Web Development company. Chris's AWS Certified Solution Architect certification attests to his extensive knowledge and experience in the field.

Beyond work, Chris loves spending quality time with his furry companions and enjoys indulging in the 3 M's - Music, Movies, and Motorcycles. As an ex-musician, Chris has live performances on YouTube and music on various streaming platforms, and his garage is full of CDs.

SOAR got its start with its Aussie founder, Olivia Malifa. Olivia has over 18 years of experience in the marketing industry. She has worked in all capacities and from all angles, serving as a marketing manager in both corporate and private businesses for over a decade before starting her own successful consultancy firm. Through her work in agency, Olivia discovered her true passion for combining creativity and strategy to serve a diverse range of clients across multiple industries.

Olivia made the brave move to come to the US in 2018 where she now lives with her husband and little Texan son. She has received recognition for her exceptional work, being named Telstra Business Women of the Year and Cairns Business Women of the Year.

When not working, Olivia loves spending time outdoors, whether it's exercising or sunbathing. She enjoys going for breakfast or dinner and entertaining family and friends at home. Olivia has also skydived six times all over the world, ridden in a V8 Supercar, and survived the most famous swing in the world, The Nevis Swing. All that’s left for her to do is to drive a Formula 1 car and swim with sharks in South Africa!

SOAR's co-founder and COO, Anthony 'Anton' Forbes-Roberts is an executive, advisor and investor with over twenty-five years of leadership in Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures, and nonprofits. His marketing experience includes leadership positions at Ogilvy Worldwide and Carlson Companies, in a career where he has designed, built, and/or sold programs driving over $500M in annual revenue. Anton's expertise in strategy & operations helps SOAR Media build, support and optimize its unique 'one stop' marketing services model on behalf of its clients.

Outside of SOAR Anton is a keen rugby enthusiast, serving on the Board of National Collegiate Rugby; as a coach for Panther Rugby Academy; and as a founder and now CEO of Atlanta Youth Rugby ('AYR'). AYR serves over 3000 kids annually with 45% identifying as female, 85% as minorities, and 80% lower household income.

Outside the office, Anton spends time in Park City and has together with his wife Tori and two sons skied over 30 mountains on 4 continents. He is also a car & motorcycle enthusiast and collector with a focus on European marques.

Andrew Armanasco is a key member of the SOAR team, specializing in new business development, account management, and relationship management. Andrew holds a degree in Business from Tulsa University and has been in the industry for several years. He has worked throughout the Americas and the European Union, helping businesses with community development, land acquisition, manufacturing, expansion, sales, and distribution.

Andrew's leadership skills were greatly enhanced during his time in the US Army, where he was named Honor graduate (#1 of 2000) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Before his consulting roles, Andrew was a regional fitness manager for 22 Fitness Alliance clubs, where he improved sales by 46%, decreased customer turnover rate by 15%, and mentored 27 employees in management positions. In his last assignment at Pure Core Training, Andrew launched fitness clubs in Texas, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Utah, and Connecticut, increasing revenue by 30% and staffing 12 locations.

When he is not dedicating himself to his work, Andrew loves both spearfishing and a good book, being a psychology buff in addition to outdoorsy type.

Behind every successful brand is one fundamental element: engaging experiences. As an Atlanta-native, Brand Marketing Strategist (Senior Account Manager), Kate Kisner has 13+ years of developing world-class events, acquisitions, brand concepts, and launches. Adept at developing methods to enhance visibility and market share by turning followers into clients, out-earning competitors, and increasing profit margins with forward-thinking, holistic brand experiences.

With a strong background in growth marketing, Kate brings a creative flair to event planning and brand strategies. Whether you’re planning an event or launching a new brand experience, Kate can help every step of the way. Experienced in a wide range of specialties, Kate is equipped with knowledge in brand development and management, traditional and digital marketing implementation and strategy, sales, and sponsorship development, and overall logistics and event planning. Kate’s innovative tactics and ideas will not only grow brands at SOAR Media Advertising but will curate meaningful connections.

Moriah Deal is SOAR’s account manager with an impressive background in all areas of Public Relations and Marketing. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Science from Kennesaw State University, with a minor in Marketing. Since then, she has brought her skills to many industries. Moriah has written Healthcare PR copy with WellStar and the Georgia Pharmacy Association, done digital marketing for a carpet manufacturer that targeted Commercial Event and Hospitality spaces, facilitated social media marketing for a non-profit, and worked in graphic design and event management for a plumbing marketing department.

At SOAR, Moriah acts as the liaison between clients and the rest of the team, building strategies and tactics that offer solutions for the clients' goals and objectives. “What I tell every client is this,” she says. “Anyone can hold a microphone and call themselves a marketer, but what distinguishes one from another is who is behind the microphone.”

Moriah recently picked up bread baking, and has treated her coworkers at SOAR more than once

Delfina Booth is an interdisciplinary professional who excels in writing, marketing, and social media. She received her Bachelor's in Literature, Media, and Communication and Master's in Global Media and Communications from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Delfina is always creating; her academic background includes building two fantasy computer games, directing three short films, and studying abroad in Mexico City twice.

Delfina has a talent for making important topics engaging and easily understandable. At SOAR, she serves as a versatile creative professional with a primary focus on copywriting. In her free time, she enjoys scrapbooking and taking walks, and also volunteers as president of the Georgia Tech Lavender (LGBTQIA) Alumni organization.

Logan Wilson brings a wealth of marketing expertise to SOAR Media, where he excels in crafting impactful strategies and innovative campaigns. As the Marketing Coordinator for the Seattle Seawolves, Logan handles social media, advertising, promotional design, sponsorships, and data analysis to drive marketing success. Combining his marketing skills with a deep passion for sports, fueled by his sister’s rugby career, Logan thrives on the excitement of game days and engaging fans. His dedication to excellence in every project reflects his commitment to both the sport and his role.

Jamie is our senior account manager, with a master’s degree and over 15 years of experience across a number of industries. She excels at guiding clients to success, having overseen accounts for major brands like Nike, Adidas, Starbucks, and Tommy Hilfiger. Originally from Texas, Jamie has lived in California and D.C., and now resides in Washington. In her free time, she enjoys family activities, traveling, outdoor running, yoga, and kayaking.

Pago brings over two years of freelance experience in video and photo editing. In his role, he takes pride in bringing imagination to life by creating and refining compelling visuals to match our clients' needs. When not working, he enjoys quality time with his wife, their dog, and a good night's sleep.

Chance Wenglewski is a graphic designer and illustrator with five years of experience under his belt. He loves contributing to the creative process of using his art to take that project to the next level and leave an impact. In his free time, Chance stays active with regular visits to the gym, training for rugby season, and exploring his passion for tattooing.

Lain is a creative force at SOAR Media, with proven success in marketing teams. She has developed a flair for creating visually compelling narratives and building cohesive brand identities. With her expertise in graphic design, multimedia, and brand identity development, Lain creates unique, memorable brand experiences that capture audiences' hearts and catapult client success.

Amanda Lako is SOAR’s marketing intern with a passion for creativity and marketing. In December 2024, she graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a concentration in Data Analytics. Amanda merges her energy for marketing and her analytical skills to bring fresh perspectives to the team and new ideas to the table. In her free time, she loves to read, travel, and try new restaurants!

Our newest intern is a passionate, smart, hard working professional looking to start her career as an entry-level marketer for a high-performance organization with opportunity for growth. Zoe Franklin is currently pursuing a BBA in International Business and Marketing with a Minor in Japanese Language and Literature at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Set to graduate in Spring 2025, Zoe is excited to enter the world of business and showcase what she has to offer.