Jessica Schaefer
Jessica Schaefer is an American businesswoman and distinguished entrepreneur in the public relations industry, celebrated for pioneering Bevel, a trailblazing communications firm dedicated to the technology and venture capital sectors.
Under her visionary leadership as Founder and CEO, Bevel emerged as a powerhouse and indispensable partner for clients with over $500B in assets under management, a testament to her leadership in a field where, according to 2023 research from the National Association of Women Business Owners, fewer than 5% of women-owned firms in America surpass the $1M revenue threshold. In a 2023 milestone, Jessica orchestrated a landmark deal by securing the acquisition of Bevel by Jeffrey Herzog's Avenue Z, creating the first digital communications unicorn with an impressive valuation of $75 million.
With an expansive portfolio that spans fintech, venture capital, big data, AI and regulatory technology, Jessica played a pivotal role in propelling a wide array of companies from their nascent stages to successful exits. Jessica's deep industry knowledge and strategic prowess have not only scaled visions into substantial achievements but also positioned her as a pivotal value partner through every phase of her clients' journeys. Launching Bevel in 2017 to fill a critical void in the market, Jessica has adeptly bridged the gap between clients and key stakeholders, utilizing a blend of traditional and new-age media to enhance brand visibility and recognition in essential markets. Among her notable clients are Acorns, DIRTY LEMON, Greycroft, Point72 Ventures, Torch Capital, Rally Rd, and the Sundance Institute. Prior to establishing Bevel, Jessica honed her skills at Point72, where she led the communications strategies for its venture capital division and served as Vice President of Corporate Communications for the family office. This role was crucial in developing her mastery over media relations, reputation management, and crisis communications, providing her the acumen to launch Bevel and elevate it to its industry-leading position today. Prior to Point72, Jessica had multiple sales and marketing roles at Moody's, including Head of Marketing Communications and Director of Global Sales, where she managed a portfolio worth $12.5 million. Jessica's professional journey commenced at a mid-sized PR agency in New York City during the 2008 financial crisis, where she orchestrated communications strategies for notable clients such as OppenheimerFunds, RBC, RBS, and Jefferies. Her contributions to the field have been honored with numerous accolades, including PR News’ “Rising Stars 30 under 30” and Moody’s “Rising Star Award.” Jessica was also celebrated on the Innovate Finance Women in FinTech Powerlist for 2023, underscoring her influence and leadership in the industry. Jessica holds an MBA in Finance from the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College and earned her Bachelor's degree in Public Relations from Quinnipiac University. Beyond her professional achievements, Jessica serves on the Board for the Children’s Cancer Recovery Foundation and dedicates her expertise to public relations efforts for nonprofits focused on pediatric cancer.