Briana Cooper, MPA, APR is an experienced strategic communications and public relations professional with 20 years of strategic storytelling, marketing, change management and award-winning public relations experience. 

As Head of External Affairs for Sikora Law, Cooper leads the team in communications, public affairs, marketing and business development. 

Prior to joining Sikora Law, Cooper led the Alabama market expansion for NP Strategy, a PR subsidiary of an Am Law 200 law firm. She previously led communications at a $125 million high-growth life sciences research organization and has consulted for companies of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500. With a reputation as a “builder” and storyteller, Cooper thrives in high stakes scenarios where she can create new programs and processes that drive widespread impacts. 

As an advocate for social and industry impact, Cooper is dedicated to mentoring students, developing the next generation of leaders, promoting her profession and giving back to the community. Along with volunteering time to numerous committees and projects focused on promoting diversity, equity and belonging, she has served in local and national leadership roles in the Public Relations Council of Alabama and Public Relations Student Society of America  chapters. She now serves on the board of directors for the Alabama Chapter of PRSA (2024 Chair), as chair for PRSA’s Southeast District board of directors, and as an executive committee member for the PRSA District Council. She also serves on the Institute for Public Relations research cohort, is a member of the Shades Valley Rotary Club PR committee and is a Policy Fellow with the Alabama Women’s Foundation.

Cooper has been recognized across the industry for her leadership, academic and career achievements. She was named Women’s Empowerment Champion by PR News, and has received multiple Medallion Awards from the Public Relations Council of Alabama for her work leading client campaigns and developing PR strategies. She was honored as a Rising Star Alumni by the UAB National Alumni Society and was named Outstanding Student by her alma mater three times.

Accredited in Public Relations, Cooper is recognized as being among the top 3% of ethical PR and communications professionals practicing in the United States. She received a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s in communications from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Originally from the Los Angeles area, Cooper recently relocated to Cleveland, Ohio. She credits her love of her new home to Cleveland’s endless cultural and outdoor pursuits.