THREE DECADES OF MEDIA INTELLIGENCE
Our Story
For nearly 35 years, Makiaris Media has been one of the largest independent media agencies
between New York and Boston. As a full-scale media agency with a combined 130 years’ experience,
we know the local, regional and national markets and the ever-changing media landscape
better than most. And the proof is in the results.
Whether it’s media consulting, strategic planning, media buying or placement, Makiaris
is the media intelligence partner for you.
STARTING SOMETHING GREAT
Hard work comes easy for Irene Makiaris. That’s because as the daughter of Greek immigrants, her parents raised
her with a strong work ethic. It’s a heritage which led her to become an industry leader and establish one of
the region’s first female-owned media agencies.
But it didn’t happen overnight.
As the first employee for a Connecticut-based advertising agency where she worked for 15 years as
Director of Consumer Media, Irene found her passion for producing award-winning work by enhancing creative
campaigns with strategic planning and media buys. It’s an approach Irene took with her when, over three decades
ago, she shattered the glass ceiling and started her own company.
Today, you’ll find Irene’s passion for developing media strategies and unique campaign ideas throughout
Makiaris Media. Because she’s given the company more than just its name. She’s raised it the same way her
parents raised her—with an upfront, honest method of working hard that can be found in every employee and project.
TEAM
Irene Makiaris | CEO and founder
Irene founded Makiaris Media in 1987 and for over 40 years has continued to be a leader in the communications industry.
She’s the recipient of four EFFIE’S and serves on numerous executive boards. In addition to working with her management team,
she continues to lead new business development.
Donna Staples
President
With over three decades in the industry, Donna keeps us at the forefront of new media trends as President. Her experience and leadership makes her a media expert who helps develop innovative media
strategies and campaigns that
generate results.
Andi Bardino
Director | Financial Services
An integral part of the management team, Andi oversees financial operations with a high level of service and professionalism. With a strong media background, she has a command of all phases of the media
process, ensuring a seamless flow of information and reporting.
Kim Kosiorek
Director | Media Services
As a strong leader focused on account
management and media strategy, planning and buying, Kim manages multiple teams within the agency while working with a diverse range of client categories which include B2C and B2B campaigns.
Samantha Bellisio
Manager | Media Services
In her account service role, Samantha is a liaison between the client and internal team members. She always keeps the clients’ end goal in mind while simultaneously keeping everything and everyone on schedule and meeting day-to-day needs. Her attention to detail and organizational skills keep everyone on the same page including team members and clients. In addition to servicing numerous accounts, Samantha also plans and buys across all mediums ensuring media plans align with the clients’ campaign strategy and that there is always value added. Samantha’s unique thinking creates a perfect blend of traditional and digital media that drives successful campaigns.
Kelsey Maxon
Digital Media Strategist
Kelsey’s role at Makiaris Media involves the ability to be on the forefront of the latest digital trends and offerings. His role brings a vast array of digital strategies into a cohesive plan to help our clients thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape.
Robin Clark
Media Planner/Buyer-Digital Specialist
Robin’s role at Makiaris Media requires her to be on the cutting edge of the latest technologies to continually bring innovative, strategic digital plans to our clients. With over 25 years of experience in the media industry, her understanding of the total picture ensures that digital and traditional approaches work together for the best possible results.
Talia Cohen
Media Planner/Buyer
Talia has 5 years of experience in the media industry and has worked with a wide variety of clients in multiple markets. Her media buying and planning expertise allows her to go above and beyond for clients as she negotiates with vendors and ensures that they receive the best placements. Talia’s attention to detail and timeliness lets her communicate effectively with both internal and external teams.
Chelsea Yochimowitz
Media Buyer
Chelsea has been with Makiaris Media for several years, providing her with strong knowledge of the media industry. Chelsea’s responsiveness, attention to detail, and strong relationships with vendors and clients make her an invaluable asset to the team.
Evyenia Papageorge
Media Coordinator
Evy’s strong communication skills and close attention to detail allow her to consistently go above and beyond when executing media campaigns. She ensures deadlines are accurate, required creative assets are delivered, and has great working relationships with vendors. Her focus and passion are social media and digital analytics. She is certified in Google Ads and Analytics along with a Certificate in Digital Fundamentals from the IAB.
Amber White
Media Coordinator
Working closely with buyers and vendors Amber is a fast-moving highway connecting campaigns with audiences. Amber has previous experience working for multiple radio stations in Connecticut where she developed creative marketing campaigns for her clients. Her strong organization skills, well rounded media knowledge and superb customer service skills ensure that our media campaigns are executed flawlessly.
Leah Karaban
Office Assistant