Crisis Response

I get called when there is an impending or already public issue, crisis, or legal action that requires immediate attention. I integrate with the working group to help navigate and ultimately de-escalate the problem. If I am one of the first calls, I can also help to create the right working group, identifying who is needed internally as part of the crisis response team, as well as referring outside experts, as appropriate, to ensure the client has all needed perspectives at the table.

Crisis Readiness

After working with countless organizations to plan for and manage through crises, I have an approach to preparation that I believe achieves “the sweet spot.” I work with clients on their timeline and within their budget to accomplish the most important aspects of crisis preparation: identifying the team and escalation protocols; planning for the handful of scenarios that would be the most likely and potentially damaging to the brand; and training key stakeholders within the organization on how to issue spot potential crises earlier in the process, when the likelihood of successful mitigation is much higher. Most organizations intend to crisis plan, but the reality is it is hard to find the resources (both time and budget) to invest in the full-scale, more traditional approach to formal playbooks and simulation training. I find my focused approach gives clients the foundation, awareness, and confidence most needed when faced with a real risk.

Ongoing Counsel & Execution

I partner with clients on an ongoing basis to provide strategic advice, counsel, and execution on situations as they arise. These longer-term relationships are mutually beneficial as there is the ability to develop a deep relationship and knowledge of the individual or the organization over time, enabling us to work together to diffuse issues before they escalate and become crises.

• For organizations, this type of engagement is typically most beneficial when the organization has faced an issue or allegations that leave it vulnerable to additional attack; when there is ongoing litigation or regulatory scrutiny that requires longer-term support; or when the organization or its board sees value in retaining my services as part of its ongoing risk mitigation approach. I plug into existing internal and/or agency resources to provide an additional layer of expertise, helping to see around the corner and navigate business as usual in a way that continually works to issue spot and mitigate risk. I provide support in several different capacities as an advisor to the executive team; a variety of teams and individuals throughout the organization; a specific department or team; or the person in the role charged with leading reputational issues for the company to provide behind-the-scenes counsel and execution of work product that they can take to their leadership.
• For high-profile or high-net-worth individuals, this type of engagement may include ongoing support with media inquiries and requests, attendance at public functions, and/or advice on the client’s philanthropic endeavors and other matters as it pertains to their public life.