The author

Meet Rhett E. Butler

Director of Strategic Communications & Public Relations, VSJ & Co. — Founder, Brand Power Institute

“Trust, influence, and organizational perception are rarely accidental. They are the result of strategic architecture.”

Rhett E. Butler is a strategic communications executive, brand strategist, journalist, author, and media professional with more than 20 years of experience across government, economic development, higher education, sports, entertainment, and media. As Director of Strategic Communications & Public Relations at VSJ & Co., part of the V. Companies portfolio, he leads communications strategy, public relations, executive positioning, media relations, thought leadership, and digital storytelling — helping organizations strengthen their reputations, communicate their value, and build meaningful relationships with the audiences they serve.

Before joining VSJ & Co., he served as Director of Marketing & Communications for the Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation, where he led strategic marketing, brand communications, media relations, and digital content initiatives supporting business attraction, entrepreneurship, and economic development. He also created and hosted Expansion Starts Here, a podcast highlighting business leaders, innovators, and opportunities throughout Prince George's County.

His background includes communications and media work with the District of Columbia's Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment, as well as experience spanning national and international sports and entertainment organizations, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Xtreme Fighting Championships. His journalism includes work with TIME, MONEY, The Source, and other media platforms.

Through Brand Power Institute, Rhett develops brand strategy education, executive workshops, and resources focused on the psychology of branding, strategic communications, and thought leadership. He is the author of Brand Power Direct 101: Harness the Psychology of Your Brand.

A Howard University graduate with a bachelor's degree in journalism, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to communications that connects business strategy, cultural intelligence, storytelling, and audience engagement — helping executives and organizations move beyond visibility to build credibility, influence, and lasting brand value.