FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ADELE Deepens Strategic Capabilities with New Leadership Appointments
~ Firm welcomes Sierra Dean and Martha Gautier, strengthening
operational excellence and advancing client success ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., November 4, 2025 — Following its expansion in July, ADELE announced the addition of two accomplished professionals to its leadership team. Sierra Dean, former deputy press secretary in the Executive Office of Gov. Ron DeSantis, and Martha Gautier, former vice president of Palladian Partners, join ADELE’s growing team, bringing expertise that strengthens the firm’s operational excellence and client service.
“Sierra and Martha bring the kind of exceptional leadership experience and shared commitment to purposeful, results-driven work that our clients have come to depend on at ADELE,” said Lauren Wootton, founder and CEO of ADELE. “Their diverse expertise and perspective will enhance every facet of our firm from strategic planning and operations to client service and campaign execution. We are thrilled to welcome them to our team at such an exciting time in ADELE’s growth.”
Dean will serve as director of strategic initiatives, leading firm-wide projects and regional marketing and communications strategies that advance ADELE’s mission and client impact. A dynamic leader with extensive experience in executive operations, public affairs, and organizational strategy, Dean joins ADELE following her role in the Executive Office of the Governor, where she managed media relations, coordinated statewide press events, and provided communications counsel to multiple executive agencies.
Previously, she served as director of external affairs for the Florida State Guard, leading government relations, outreach, and statewide engagement efforts that increased awareness and participation across the state. Her background also includes roles with the Florida Department of Education and the Office of U.S. Sen. Rick Scott. Dean serves as a commissioner emeritus for the Florida Commission on the Status of Women and as a combat medic in the Florida Army National Guard. INFLUENCE Magazine recently recognized her as a Rising Star in Florida Politics.
Gautier will serve as associate director, guiding project management and operational strategy to support client success. With more than two decades of experience directing national initiatives for public, private, and nonprofit clients, Gautier broadens ADELE’s expertise and service offerings. As vice president at Palladian Partners, a health and science communications firm, she managed a multimillion-dollar portfolio of projects for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Before that, Gautier spent 15 years with Ketchum Public Relations, leading multicultural and government outreach campaigns for top brands and federal agencies, and earning multiple PRSA Silver Anvil, SABRE, MarCom, and AVA Digital Awards for excellence in strategic communications and integrated marketing.
“Sierra’s foundation in public service and strategic leadership, paired with Martha’s extensive experience and record of success, make them invaluable additions to our team,” said Valerie Wickboldt, chief strategy officer of ADELE. “Those who have worked alongside them know they bring professionalism, integrity, and a thoughtful approach to every initiative. They truly mirror ADELE’s values and will be instrumental in advancing both our clients’ success and the continued growth of our firm.”
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About ADELE
ADELE is a full-service marketing, communications, and branding firm serving clients across Florida, Georgia, and the Southeast. Founded in 2013, ADELE specializes in crafting impactful strategies and creative solutions that help organizations promote, protect, and preserve their brands. With a team of veteran advisors and innovative strategists, ADELE delivers customized, cross-disciplinary expertise to businesses and organizations in both the private and public sectors.
