Before joining the firm, she headed her own consultancy specializing in business-to-business, technology and nonprofit communications, and public affairs. During that time, she played a key role in the launch of several technology products and in nationwide media tours for several companies.
Prior to establishing her own practice, Fireside served as corporate communications manager for software publisher Ashton-Tate (later acquired by Borland), where she supervised public relations programs for four major software products. Her career includes communications positions with technology public relations firm Franson & Associates, on the public affairs staff of ARCO, and with Western Electric Co.
In addition to her communications experience with nonprofit organizations, Fireside serves as a docent at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. She is an active member and past chair of the American Cancer Society's marketing communications committee for the Los Angeles Region, a team of 20 communications professionals. Previously, she was a board member of the Virginia Avenue Project, a mentoring program for at-risk youth, and of Big Sisters of Los Angeles.Fireside earned her B.A. degree in English from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and completed the Middle Management Program at Simmons College Graduate School of Management in Boston.
