What I Do

The work usually starts with a complicated question, not a particular communications tactic. But once we understand the problem, the work may call for communications, public affairs or both.

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Strategic communications

Good communications strategy starts with understanding the audience, the environment and what you're trying to accomplish—not simply deciding what to say.

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I develop communications strategies, positioning and messaging for organizations navigating complicated issues, change, skepticism or competing points of view.

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That can include:

• Communications strategy

• Positioning and messaging

• Executive communications

• Research and listening

• Crisis communications

• Writing and editorial counsel

• Audience and stakeholder communications

The goal isn't to say more. It's to say what matters, to the people who are paying attention.

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Public Affairs

Public affairs is different from public relations.

It is less about getting attention for an organization and more about understanding and navigating the environment in which decisions are made—policy, politics, institutions, public opinion and relationships.

I work with organizations facing complicated public issues, helping them understand the landscape, develop a strategy and communicate with the people who influence what is possible.

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That can include:

• Public affairs strategy

• Policy and issue communications

• Public opinion and research

• Coalition and relationship strategy

• Government and community engagement

• Positioning on complex or contentious issues

• Strategic counsel during periods of change or uncertainty

Sometimes the work requires an outside force. Sometimes it requires an experienced partner alongside an internal team. The approach depends on what the situation actually needs.