Our Vision & Values
We envision a world where authentic storytelling paves the way for more equitable and inclusive industries.
Collaboration
We foster a collaborative environment that encourages diverse perspectives, collective problem-solving, and shared successes.
Access
We create access to the resources necessary to help our brands thrive in a competitive world.
Equity
We are committed to fairness, justice, and equality in all aspects of our work and life.
Empathy
Empathy helps us better understand unique challenges and goals. We create tailored strategies that resonate, build deep connections, and drive mutual success.
Authenticity
Authenticity drives us. Forming strong connections with our clients assures that we can create exceptional results and enduring partnerships.
Impact
We leverage the power of communication, dynamic campaigns, and innovative strategies to drive positive social progress and shape a more equitable world for all.
Chanel Cathey is the Founder and CEO of CJC Insights, an award-winning consultancy and strategic communications agency that moves mission-driven brands forward with creativity, connection, and community. Founded in New York City in 2018, CJC Insights represents startups, nonprofits, and powerhouse clients nationwide in advocacy, technology, venture capital, private equity, and more. The agency has a proven track record of partnering with diverse founders to help them launch and scale businesses to unleash their potential.
Chanel’s work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fast Company, Adweek, PR News, and more. A recipient of ADCOLOR's 2020 Change Agent Award, Chanel and her agency have been recognized for reimagining brand stories and creating a more inclusive industry. CJC Insights was named to the 2021 Forbes Next 1000 list, The Observer’s PR Power 50 List, and has consistently been awarded to The PR Net 100 honor list alongside many of the world’s leading PR firms. Additionally, Chanel was an adjunct professor at Fordham University and founding member of The PR Net's BIPOC Mentorship Program, guiding a generation of college students seeking careers in marketing and public relations.
With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Chanel spent over a decade working in media relations and communications for iconic global brands like Viacom (Paramount), ABC News, and Unilever. As a contributor to Fast Company and Advisor for the Wall Street Journal’s Women in the Workplace Series, Chanel is passionate about curating content, conversations, and national events about the future of work, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Chanel advises several startups and serves on the Boards of Directors for nonprofit organizations. She graduated with a BA from Fordham University and received her MPA, specializing in Management and Policy, from New York University.
Our Founder
Chanel Cathey, CEO
"In a field of talented and driven people, Chanel always stands out—as a leader, as a team player, as a professional dedicated to making a real difference through her work. The enterprise value Chanel creates -- wherever she goes -- is extraordinary. Behind it all, she’s a masterful brand strategist. She listens, she learns, and she acts, transforming people, places, and ideas into more meaningful and impactful versions of their true selves. She changes how brands show up in the world."
- Ross Martin, President of KNOWN
Recognition
The dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity extends beyond Chanel’s professional endeavors. As a recipient of ADCOLOR's Change Agent Award, she has been recognized for her impactful contributions. Cathey is also a contributor to Fast Company, and serves on the Advisory Board for the Wall Street Journal’s Women in the Workplace Series, helping to curate national events and conversation around the future of women and work. Additionally, Chanel is a founding member of The PR Net's BIPOC Mentorship Program, offering guidance to college students seeking careers in marketing and public relations.
Testimonials
Tiffany R. Warren
Founder and President of ADCOLOR
"CJC Insights is a boutique agency that has consistently been awarded to The PR Net’s highest agency honor list, The PR Net 100, alongside many of the world’s leading PR firms. Their impressive client work and their commitment to DEI in the industry and the wider world are commendable. Founder Chanel Cathey was a part of our inaugural BIPOC Mentorship Program, and the agency’s work consistently champions this cause, as well as women’s leadership. CJC Insights is positively affecting the marketing and communications field, while providing strong results for their growing client base."
Lisa Kay Smith
Founder and CEO, The PR Net
"A relentless advocate and savvy strategist for female founders and minority-owned businesses, Cathey saw demand for her insights “explode” after George Floyd’s murder. ... Cathey was the only PR honoree—alongside CNN’s Don Lemon, trans activist and creative Janet Mock, and the founders of Black Lives Matter—at the Adcolor Awards, which “honor the diverse achievements of diverse communities in advertising, marketing, PR, media, and entertainment.”
Michael Kaminer
The Observer’s PR Power 50 list