Black History Month | Rockstar: Ashley Simms
Ashley Simms | Communications Manager, Google
Ashley Simms is an award-winning communications leader with more than 13 years of experience at the intersection of technology, policy, and the public sector. Currently leading PR and executive communications for Google Public Sector’s education, state, and local government business, Ashley specializes in the art of storytelling—converting complex, high-tech solutions into deeply human, impactful stories that resonate with broad audiences. Her expertise lies in guiding cross-functional teams to align on communication programs that address societal challenges while elevating brand awareness, ensuring reputation management, and consistently securing top-tier media coverage.
Ashley’s career is defined by her unwavering passion for social impact. She is dedicated to demonstrating how mission-driven technology can solve society’s most pressing challenges, from modernizing critical government services to expanding access to quality education. Before joining Google, she managed public sector PR initiatives at Amazon Web Services and was a Vice President at FleishmanHillard. There, she spearheaded large-scale federal and commercial campaigns focused on military affairs, public health, and cybersecurity, consistently proving that even the most complex subjects can—and should—be told through a lens of community impact.
Beyond her professional portfolio, Ashley is a fierce advocate for equity and a dedicated community builder. At FleishmanHillard, she led the Alfred Fleishman Diversity Fellowship in Washington, D.C., and currently leads an Employee Resource Group for the Black Googler Network. Her commitment is further reflected in her long-standing service to ADCOLOR, where she currently leads the Black@ADCOLOR community group to champion and inspire professionals of color across creative industries.
Recognitions & Awards:
- PR Week: Outstanding Young PR Professional & Diversity Distinction in PR
- Huffington Post: Top 25 African American PR Millennials to Watch
- PRNews: Rising Star