Lauren Barnes

Lauren Barnes is an accomplished communications professional with over 18 years of experience in strategic communications and media relations. Currently serving as Account Director at Spire Communications since October 2024, Lauren manages communications for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, focusing on health IT and interoperability projects. Previously, Lauren held various senior roles at ITA International, including Vice President of Corporate Communications & Branding, where strategic messaging and communication plans were developed to align with business objectives. Lauren's expertise includes customer engagement strategies, media relations, and brand development, with prior experience at HII Technical Solutions and Northrop Grumman Corporation, where significant contributions to media engagement and corporate communications were made. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism from Hampton University and completed the LEAD Peninsula program in 2023.