Our Manifesto

While we like smart and clever,

We love simple and clear.

We care more about big ideas,

Than big egos.

We don’t check boxes,

It’s never ‘good enough’,

And nothing will ever ‘do’.

We don’t believe in creating activity,

Or doing things ‘just because’.

Everything we do is with a purpose. A strategy.

We are writers, thinkers, and communicators.

We are Thiessen & Co.

Simone Thiessen, Owner

Since launching her own firm ten years ago, Simone has been a part of some meaningful, large-scale projects. In addition to ongoing executive communication support for local non-profits, she wrote the voice for an international organization’s rebrand, worked directly with the founders to launch a global mental health movement, and provided research, troubleshooting and social media support for a month-long dance app competition.

Before launching Thiessen & Co., Simone was the Senior Communication Manager for a state wide non-profit where she was heavily involved in all corporate communications. Simone was part of the team for an organization-wide rebranding, counseled leadership on communications during mergers and acquisitions, wrote and guided legislative communication, developed materials and messaging for new service lines, and worked directly with the CEO and executive leadership for communication to employees, donors, and stakeholders.

Simone started her career at CBS2 in Chicago as an Investigative producer. This training ground honed her ability to communicate complicated matters in a short, easy to understand manner. Creative thinking, research, quick decision making and hard deadlines were part of day-to-day requirements. Her work at CBS earned her four Emmy awards from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Chicago/Midwest Chapter.

Simone also serves on the Board for the Legal Assistance Center and The Mitten Foundation. She lives in Rockford, MI with her husband, two children, and Copper, the English Springer Spaniel.

John McInerney, Consultant

John’s is a strategic problem solver and thoughtful leader with a strong background in engineering, IT, and management.
His unique perspective in cross functional teams allows him to advocate for solutions, encourage thoughtful questions, and promote a collaborative environment where everyone’s opinion and ideas matter. He ensures technology solutions are optimal, efficient, and effective for everyone involved. His successful career is built on working through problems until they’re resolved, even when it meant starting over. “Failure is only failure if you give up.”

John is an Electrical Engineer and authorized Enphase PV Designer and Installer, and has a passion for renewable energy.

At Thiessen & Co. John serves in reviewing and contributing to grant applications for renewable energy projects.

Strategic Partner

Dye Communications is a Grand Rapids based strategic communications firm specializing in public relations services. We have extensive experience with media announcements and events, on-air coaching, issue management, crisis communications, speech writing, and digital media strategies.

Our work spans many industries including automotive, public utilities, insurance, healthcare, municipal governments, metropolitan planning organizations, education, research institutes, small businesses, foundations and nonprofits. We build close partnerships with all of our clients in order to develop and distribute messaging that enhances their overall brand visibility and helps them achieve their business goals. 

Prior to establishing Dye Communications, founder Tim Dye worked in leadership positions at four of Michigan’s largest and most influential broadcast news outlets, and as a communications consultant at a Michigan based PR firm.