Recognized Crisis Communications Leaders 2025

Dynamic and results-driven communications professional with over seven years of experience in crafting compelling messaging and enhancing brand awareness. Seeking to leverage strong writing, content creation, and strategic communications skills to contribute effectively to teams. Known for delivering high-impact communications strategies that drive engagement and support organizational goals.

For over 30 years, Jim has been a change agent in the nonprofit and public sectors. Just recently, he finished his 7th interim executive position. Jim was the Interim CEO of the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, a visual and performing arts center in the heart of the cultural and convention district of San Francisco. There, he helped reduce a projected $4M deficit to $600k surplus and built back trust with the staff after a major public relations crisis. Previously, Jim was the Interim CEO of Downtown Streets Team, a nonprofit rated as one of California’s top five evidence-based best practices in transitioning the homeless to self-sufficiency. Over 18 months, he turned an $800,000 deficit into a $500,000 surplus while also paying off a third of their debt. Previously, he served as the interim executive director of five other nonprofits. His additional positions include acting as the Chief Communications Officer for the American Red Cross in Colorado, the interim Chief Operating Officer for More than Me (an international nonprofit for girls in Africa), and the Chief External Relations Officer for the Minnesota Zoo. In addition to his nonprofit work, Jim is passionate about good government. Jim was the VP of Strategy at CivicMakers, a San Francisco government innovation consultancy. There, he co-facilitated a three year strategic roadmap for the City of Hayward and designed process improvements for over 40 internal procedures for the City of Berkeley. As a 2014 Humphrey School Policy Fellow, 2013 White House Innovation Fellow finalist, and winner of the 2012 Minnesota Idea Open, he has been recognized for excellence within the public sector. Jim holds a master’s degree in public policy from Duke University and a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the University of Pennsylvania. To find out more, go to https://www.jimrettew.com

I’m Cristy Verdeja Zaldívar—a strategic communications and marketing leader with over 15 years of experience transforming how brands connect, grow, and lead. As CEO of Pointe Connect, I consult for companies across industries—from nimble startups to global Fortune 500s—offering high-level strategy rooted in clarity, creativity, and results. I specialize in diagnosing challenges, crafting messaging that resonates, and building marketing and communications frameworks that drive real business impact. Known for my sharp instincts and innovative thinking, I’m the person teams call when they need to elevate their brand, reset their approach, or navigate complexity with confidence. My expertise spans corporate communications, PR, digital strategy, crisis and issues management, and multicultural marketing. I’ve advised industry giants, led global campaigns, and built cross-functional teams that deliver. I’m a bilingual storyteller (English/Spanish + conversational French) with a global mindset and a deep belief in the power of connection. Whether I’m guiding an executive team or rolling up my sleeves with a small business owner, I bring vision, structure, and momentum to every engagement.

Public relations professional with a keen eye for identifying your message and making it known through targeted, impactful media relationships and written content. I have six years of agency experience where I've cultivated and grown my skills in media relations, client communications, strategic writing, brand awareness, and expert thought leadership. I have extensive experience representing technology companies large and small, resulting in feature stories among Axios, Business Insider, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more. Now, I'm tapping into my new home of Baltimore and telling the city's stories. At Abel Communications, I represent the regional organizations and leaders that create change and foster community in health and wellness, real estate, transportation, and more.

Dedicated and hard-working public relations professional with the ability to multi-task…

Jason Pack is a seasoned crisis communicator, public information strategist, and media expert with more than 30 years of experience on the frontlines of America’s most high-stakes moments. A retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and former national spokesperson, Jason has led public affairs responses to some of the nation’s most defining tragedies—from the Boston Marathon bombing to the Pulse Nightclub attack, the Nashville Christmas Day bombing, and countless others. Today, he serves as the CEO of Media Rep Global Strategies, where he advises government agencies, C-suite executives, and public safety leaders on messaging, media strategy, and crisis response. Jason began his career as a TV and radio journalist in Tennessee before becoming a paramedic and later an FBI agent. That unique combination—reporter, responder, and law enforcement leader—gives him rare insight into how crises unfold, and how the story is told. He’s worked hostage cases, child abductions, and counterterrorism investigations. He’s also taught internationally on topics ranging from crisis negotiation to media relations, and served as a guest instructor at the FBI Academy and the FBI National Academy. As a certified FBI Crisis Negotiator, Jason understands the power of words—when to hold, when to speak, and how to lead through chaos. That skill has translated into national media commentary roles, where he appears regularly on Fox News, CNN, and NewsNation as an emergency services analyst. Whether briefing the FBI Director before a 60 Minutes interview or helping a local sheriff navigate national press, Jason brings clarity, calm, and credibility to every message. In addition to his communications work, Jason remains a certified Advanced EMT and still pulls shifts on the ambulance—keeping him grounded in the mission of public service. He draws from those real-world experiences to help others tell their story with authenticity and impact. Through Media Rep Global Strategies, Jason empowers leaders to communicate with purpose, whether the stakes are high or the cameras are rolling. If your message matters, he can help you deliver it.

I’m a security consultant and the founder of North Star Group, where I help individuals, organizations, and communities strengthen their overall safety and preparedness. With over 20 years of experience across military and private-sector security, my work focuses on physical security assessments, threat and vulnerability analysis, CPTED principles, workplace violence prevention, and expert witness consulting. I’ve supported clients across a wide range of sectors—including education, government, business, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and houses of worship—by providing practical, real-world guidance rooted in proactive risk management. Whether it’s improving day-to-day security, planning for emergencies, or helping legal teams understand foreseeability and duty of care, I bring a layered and strategic approach to every situation. If you're looking for expert insight on how to build safer environments and reduce risk, I'm always open to contributing.

Shawn is a seasoned lawyer with an entrepreneurial spirit & is experienced working with technology-focused organizations at varying stages, including as General Counsel for an international health tech company. Shawn works closely with clients as a valued & trusted advisor, providing business ready solutions to resolve issues revolving around incident response (breach coach), strategic risk, crisis, data privacy & cybersecurity.Shawn Ford provides strategic risk advisory services that span a comprehensive spectrum, encompassing strategic communications, investigations, due diligence, supply chain analysis, intelligence research & a range of specialized services. He provides guidance on issues related to kidnap, extortion, blackmail & product contamination, rendering invaluable support to High Net Worth Individuals & Families in need of protection & emergency response. He focuses on providing executive-level strategies to plan for, prevent, & respond to crises throughout the pre-, intra-, & post-crisis stages.Shawn values aiding clients to develop & build upon their understanding of strategic risk, compliance, privacy & cyber obligations. As such, he realizes first-hand the challenges that organizations face when trying to balance their compliance obligations while innovating & developing new products & services. Shawn helps companies turn their obligations into opportunities, to build trust & advance their business goals.Shawn assists multinational institutions to understand & operationalize their risk, privacy & cyber requirements. He works closely with the executives, CISOs & legal counsel to create enterprise-wide strategic risk programs, third party risk programs & incident response capabilities. He frequently works with privacy officers to implement their privacy program & to understand their data.As Co-Founder & President of IronGate Protection, Shawn leads the business as it provides executive & close protection, security operations, private investigation, bodyguard, residential security, threat assessment, & international operation management.Shawn states that his mission is “to take a 360° approach to understand your organization’s position & ability to leverage strategic risk, data security, privacy & technology best practices to build brand trust & resiliency.”__The content shared is for general informational purposes only & should not be construed as legal advice.Do not provide confidential information via LinkedIn as it may not be treated as confidential, privileged, or protected.Prior results do not guarantee similar outcome.

Jenn Prochaska (Pro HASS kah) is a Message Strategist + Copywriter with 27+ years of experience. She worked at agencies and led in-house creative teams. In 2018, she was let go. Unbeknownst to the agency, she was 3 months pregnant. (If you really want to get deep … this pregnancy was the first in four that was okay. She’s my saucy 6-year-old today). She used the opportunity to go out on her own. In her heart, she wanted to serve new solopreneurs. She was warned away, however, told “the education hurdle is too great." She listened and built a successful agency focused on more established businesses. Her done-for-you services include crafting foundational brand messages, brand voice and website copy. Over the years, she’s written for every size of business across nearly every industry, from Toyota, Oreo Cookies and Cleveland Clinic to local plumbers, therapists and coaches. There was just one problem. Those solopreneurs still needed help. Worse, many had fallen prey to influencers who promised marketing magic but delivered costly letdowns. What they needed was a place that gave them expert guidance. So she created one. Today, Jenn gets to do both. She writes for clients through The Write Difference®, and teaches solopreneurs how to DIY their messaging at Write Marketing™. A proud Clevelander and mom of two, Jenn empowers entrepreneurs. Diversity and inclusivity are guiding principles, as is giving back. A portion of every project supports the Cleveland Food Bank.

Nancy J. Capistran, PCC, is a nationally recognized Executive Coach, Vistage Chair, and Board Director with a reputation for elevating leaders and organizations in complex, high-stakes environments. As Founder and CEO of Capistran Leadership, Nancy partners with senior executives and boards to accelerate growth, sharpen decision-making, and drive results with clarity, agility, and impact. Nancy’s background spans executive leadership coaching, culture transformation, strategic planning, risk and crisis advising, and organizational performance. With a keen understanding of the pressures facing today’s leaders, Nancy brings practical, actionable insights that help organizations strengthen culture, boost engagement, and achieve sustainable growth. Boardroom experience adds trusted guidance in governance, risk management, and strategic alignment, ensuring organizations are positioned to navigate change, mitigate risk, and seize new opportunities. As a Vistage Chair, Nancy facilitates high-performing peer advisory groups for CEOs and business owners, challenging leaders to broaden their perspectives, confront critical issues, and achieve breakthrough outcomes. The facilitation style is direct, results-oriented, and grounded in real-world business acumen, making Nancy a sought-after resource for leaders who want to think bigger and move faster. Nancy’s work has earned multiple “Best Executive Coach” awards and has featured insights in major media outlets. Known for the ability to reframe complex challenges, spark innovation, and unlock untapped leadership potential, Nancy is frequently called upon to advise on leadership strategy, board effectiveness, and organizational resilience. Proprietary frameworks and a candid, straightforward approach help executives and teams cut through noise, focus on what matters most, and deliver measurable results. Clients describe Nancy as a trusted sounding board and catalyst for positive change—someone who challenges assumptions, fosters accountability, and inspires leaders to reach new heights. Whether guiding a Board through strategic pivots or coaching a CEO through high-pressure decisions, Nancy brings clarity, composure, and a relentless focus on excellence. For actionable insights on leadership, Board governance, or organizational transformation, Nancy Capistran delivers clear, candid advice that empowers executives and teams to thrive. Connect directly at nancy@capistranleadership.com.

I began working with computers as far back as DOS and Lantastic. I started working professionally in the IT Field since 1999 and have worked with every Microsoft server since Windows NT. I now hold the role as CISO at ITRemedy/ Happy Computer where we consult with networks from single users to clients that run into the 100's of devices.

A senior communications practitioner and corporate storyteller with a decade's experience across strategic communications, public relations, journalism, brand management, and creative advertising, I've helped early-stage founders and senior executives navigate today's distracted, diverse, and multi-stakeholder information landscape to achieve their business objectives while staying true to who they are.

I am a senior marketing manager and consultant with over 15 years of experience in the digital marketing industry.With a deep understanding of search engine algorithms and a proven track record of improving website visibility and traffic, I help businesses achieve their online goals. In my current role, I lead a small team of digital marketing specialists and am responsible for driving the success of client campaigns.

Let's rock your next marketing campaign. I am creative, intelligent, astute and personable. These traits are what make my marketing & design award-winning. Extensive experience working B2B, offering web\​graphic design, marketing, and social media marketing solutions to SMB's. A proven leader, who possesses award-winning marketing management and design skills. With over a decade in the industry, I am a highly motivated professional that brings a unique perspective to my work. This experience is bolstered by my education in media, marketing and psychology that I used to successfully manage integrated marketing campaigns for over 12 years. Specialties: Integrated Marketing | Website Design | Graphic Design | Social Media Marketing | Search Engine Optimization & Marketing Photography | Email Marketing | Event Planning & Management | Marketing Plans | Content Management | Logos | Audio & Video | Analysis and Optimization

Robert Giannini is the CEO of GiaSpace Inc., a Florida-based IT and cybersecurity firm he founded in 2005. With a career spanning over two decades, Robert has been a steadfast supporter of entrepreneurship since 1998. His early roles as a Field Engineer at Compaq and HP Solutions laid the foundation for his expertise in IT services. At GiaSpace, Robert specializes in providing small to mid-sized businesses with reliable managed IT and cybersecurity solutions. His leadership has earned him a place in the Forbes Technology Council, recognizing his contributions to the tech industry.

I'm an entrepreneur and experienced PR and marketing specialist with more than 10 years of experience focusing on B2B, B2C, technology, and product communications across corporate, startup, and agency environments. I'm skilled in media relations, content strategies, analytics, referral campaigns, inbound marketing, lead nurturing, and growth marketing.I'm the CEO and Founder of PRLab, a company known for its innovative, growth-driven approach, we've helped over 100 companies to grow further with the power of PR. At PRLab we focus on outcomes rather than input, we match your business goals wth PR goals, we focus on creating news and we're global but we act local. I'm also the author of ‘The PR Paradox’, the world’s first book about mastering the art of PR as a startup.

I completed a Combined Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Communications. I am fluent in English and Spanish, with a level B1 certification in taking the DELE exam.Building community, supporting local businesses and helping folks in need are what fire me up. I am also a knowledge seeker with experience in marketing, social media, event-planning, volunteer coordination, public policy and working with children.

I lead a team of game-changers and PR Professionals who are driven by results and a passion for shaking up the PR industry. Our unique approach to PR is centered around disruptive thinking and a willingness to challenge the status quo, resulting in bold and impactful campaigns for our valued clients.

Innovative earned media, brand engagement, and communications leader with a 18+-year track record of developing strategic and integrated public relations, social media marketing, influencer and celebrity engagement, experiential and event management, content marketing, and brand partnership programsProven brand and team builder with an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to set a vision, create, inspire and manage a team and execute high-profile, multi-million-dollar integrated campaigns for Fortune 500 companies, celebrities, startups, and everything in betweenDeep expertise in the travel and tourism, consumer / lifestyle, fashion / beauty, CPG, retail and entertainment industriesHighly skilled at building and leveraging a large network of industry contacts to drive new business opportunities, and effective brand partnerships and identify and hire premier talent