The Peacock Group Hires Whitlock as Public Relations Manager
Strategic communications expert brings extensive agency and nonprofit experience
The Peacock Group is proud to welcome Lea Whitlock, APR, as public relations manager, bringing more than 14 years of expertise in public relations, media relations and crisis communications. With a career spanning nonprofit, corporate and agency settings, Whitlock is known for helping brands and organizations connect with their audiences, build trust and navigate tough situations with confidence. Whitlock will be based out of the agency’s Little Rock office.
“Lea knows the power of a well-told story, and her ability to craft compelling narratives while leading strategic communications will be a tremendous asset to our clients,” said Denver Peacock, APR, founder and principal of The Peacock Group. “Her thoughtful, practical approach to media relations, crisis response and brand storytelling aligns perfectly with our firm’s mission. We’re excited to have her on the team.”
Whitlock joins TPG after serving as senior public relations manager at another local agency, where she led PR strategies for a diverse roster of clients, developing and executing campaigns that aligned with organizational goals. She also played a key role in crisis communications planning and implementation for enterprise-level clients, ensuring organizations were prepared to respond effectively in critical moments.
Before her agency experience, Whitlock held leadership roles in nonprofit communications, serving as communications director at Arkansas Foodbank and Arkansas Community Foundation. At the Foodbank, she successfully developed and implemented communications strategies that supported more than $1.5 million in grant funding and cause-marketing partnerships, while also securing widespread media coverage for key initiatives. At the Arkansas Community Foundation, she led statewide fundraising campaigns, including an online giving day that raised more than $12 million for 900+ nonprofits over three years.
A member of Leadership Greater Little Rock, Class XL, Whitlock is also actively engaged in the community, serving on the communications committee for SoMa501 and volunteering with Arkansas Community Foundation and Home for Healing.
Born in Virginia and raised in Arkansas, Whitlock earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Central Arkansas. She is accredited in public relations (APR) and holds a crisis communications management certification. Outside of work, she is always seeking new experiences—exploring new places, meeting new people or finding the next great story to tell.