Practice area taps firm’s experience in crisis and issue communications for technology companies and navigating cybersecurity challenges and breaches
Washington, DC – SKDK, a nationally recognized public affairs and political consulting firm, today announced Executive Vice President Elizabeth Kenigsberg as the head of its growing cybersecurity and technology practice. The practice leverages the firm’s deep expertise navigating complex policy issues and crisis communications.
SKDK has helped companies, philanthropies, nonprofits and public institutions plan and respond to an increasingly aggressive cybersecurity environment while also leading successful public affairs efforts for startups and large technology companies. This practice area supports new and existing clients in designing communications strategies and crisis mitigation plans, with a special focus on preparation and response to cyberattacks, data leaks, and operating in a complex political and regulatory environment.
“Technology companies of all sizes need to stand out and to stand for something. They face unique challenges on both the regulatory and legislative fronts. In addition, all companies and organizations are grappling today with cyber threats, from ransomware attacks to malware infections,” said Partner Jill Zuckman. “Our cybersecurity and technology team, led by Liz, combines a deep understanding of the political climate with strong media relationships to help our clients prepare for the worst and manage the special challenges that they face.”
Zuckman and Kenigsberg spearheaded the practice, and both have spent years helping clients through high-profile crises and reputational challenges, including ransomware attacks and congressional inquiries. The practice incorporates SKDK’s knowledge of where politics, policy and media intersect to help companies at all stages, venture capital and private equity investors, and nonprofit advocates understand and shape policy outcomes. SKDK has worked with a diverse array of companies ranging from technology service providers and social media services to fintech and blockchain companies to increase understanding of issues related to artificial intelligence, online safety and privacy, and employment classification in the gig economy, among others.
“Now is an exciting time to be leading this practice, with technology and cybersecurity landscape becoming more complex,” Kenigsberg said. “The smartest thing our clients can do from a cybersecurity and reputational standpoint is prepare for when, not if, a crisis occurs. We are looking forward to using our expertise on cybersecurity and technology to help many more companies and organizations successfully shape policy outcomes and tackle any number of challenges.”
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm that brings unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to manage a crisis, protect a brand, advocate for an issue, or win an election.
In 2022, SKDK served as strategists and admakers for winning campaigns including Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas, and Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut – and in 2020, was a key adviser to the historic Biden-Harris campaign. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2023.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, a digital-first global marketing network that delivers scalable, seamless solutions through a unique combination of culture-moving creativity and leading-edge technology.
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Announces Elizabeth Kenigsberg To Lead Cybersecurity and Technology PracticeFormer editorial board member, broadcast journalist, Obama Administration communications strategist join firm’s best-in-class writing and coaching team as of-counsel advisors
Washington, DC – SKDK’s Executive Communications practice, a unique offering of the award-winning public affairs and political advertising agency, welcomes three prominent media and messaging experts to its team of message architects, speechwriters, media trainers, and presentation coaches.
Adora Andy Jenkins, who has held top communications roles at the Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency, tech companies and an advocacy organization; Lisa Stark, an Emmy- and Peabody-award-winning former network news correspondent for ABC and PBS; and Saundra Torry, who spent two decades as a Washington Post reporter and then two more writing opinions on USA Today’s editorial board, have joined the SKDK Executive Communications team as of-counsel advisors.
“We help leaders communicate clearly and creatively to advance their causes, win their campaigns, and grow their companies,” said SKDK Managing Director Stephen Krupin, a former senior speechwriter to President Obama who launched and leads the firm’s Executive Communication practice. “Those advocates, candidates, and executives will benefit from Adora, Lisa, and Saundra’s smart and savvy counsel, built on decades of experience on both sides of the equation as strategists and journalists. They’ve seen it all, they understand better than most what breaks through, and they know how to help leaders tell true stories that move stakeholders. Our clients will be grateful to have them in the room, and we’re fortunate to have them on our team.”
Adora Andy Jenkins has worked for 20 years with high-profile officials in government, business, and the nonprofit space to create a more just and equitable future. She served in top communications positions in the Obama Administration, including as the press secretary for Attorney General Eric Holder at the Department of Justice, at the Environmental Protection Agency during the BP oil spill and Fukushima nuclear disaster, and in seven key states on President Obama’s 2008 campaign. Jenkins will work with SKDK’s Executive Communications clients on thought-leadership strategy, messaging, media training, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Jenkins, who began her career as a local TV news producer, later led communications for the global technology trade association ITI, the global education technology company 2U, and the Cecile Richards-founded women’s-equity organization Supermajority before opening her own communications and brand strategy firm. While in the tech sector, Jenkins advanced diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at a time when they were just getting off the ground.
“At a time when executives across sectors are facing internal and external pressures to take stands on policy and social justice issues, I look forward to working with SKDK to help clients not only make a positive impact, but to tell that story in a clear and compelling way,” Jenkins said.
Lisa Stark is an Emmy- and Peabody-award-winning network news correspondent who has reported for ABC News, the PBS NewsHour, and Al Jazeera America. Stark also worked as a senior member of American University’s media relations team, handling crisis communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. With SKDK, Stark will help media train executives, advocates, and spokespeople of all stripes for their on-camera engagements.
As a network broadcast journalist based in Washington, D.C., Stark reported extensively on federal regulatory agencies, including those responsible for transportation and pharmaceutical safety, and covered terrorist attacks from the Oklahoma City bombing to 9/11. She also covered presidential campaigns, the Supreme Court, and education policy.
“I am excited to be working with SKDK and its extraordinary media training team,” Stark said. “The company’s clients are looking to make a difference in the world and I am delighted to be able to help them advance their messages and their causes.”
Saundra Torry served on USA Today’seditorial board for nearly 20 years, and for the 20 years before that reported for the Washington Post. Torry will write and edit opinion pieces, guest essays, and other longform content with SKDK’s clients.
As an editorial writer for the nation’s largest-circulation newspaper, Torry, who specialized in legal issues, expressed the board’s opinion on issues as varied as terrorism, gun violence, abortion, public health, the tobacco industry, the opioid epidemic, and Major League Baseball. She covered a number of beats at the Post, from state and federal courts to Congress, and for seven years wrote the paper’s legal column. Torry has received awards from The Associated Press, the Washington-Baltimore Newspaper Guild, and the Scripps Howard Foundation, and held leadership positions on the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.
“I’m delighted to be joining SKDK,” Torry said. “And with so much exciting and important news happening in the world, I look forward to working with clients to help them express their opinions clearly and eloquently in op-eds and essays, and work with them on other projects.”
SKDK’s Executive Communications team has worked with high-profile leaders who have won the White House, the Nobel Prize, and the trust of their communities. Its writers and coaches have translated complex ideas into compelling messages on behalf of philanthropists, civil rights leaders, and entrepreneurs, and have developed thought-leadership platforms for CEOs of blue-chip companies, heads of global foundations, and advocates on the front lines of today’s biggest policy debates.
Working alongside SKDK’s experts in media relations, advertising, opinion research, digital strategy, and financial communications, the Executive Communications practice offers the following best-in-class services:
For more on SKDK’s Executive Communications services, please visit https://skdknick.com/our-services/exec-comms/.
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm that brings unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations, and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to organizations that need to manage a crisis, protect a brand, advocate for an issue, or win an election.
In 2022, SKDK served as strategists and admakers for winning campaigns including Governor-elect Wes Moore of Maryland, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas, and Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut – and in 2020, was a key adviser to the historic Biden-Harris campaign. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North American Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdnick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, a digital-first global marketing network that delivers scalable, seamless solutions through a unique combination of culture-moving creativity and leading-edge technology.
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Adds Three Experienced Media, Messaging Experts to Executive Communications PracticeLeading media firm helps elect Wes Moore as Maryland’s first Black Governor, as well as reelecting Senator Mark Kelly in Arizona, Governor Laura Kelly in Kansas, and Governor Ned Lamont in Connecticut
Washington, DC – SKDK, the leading Democratic media and political consulting firm, served as ad-makers and strategists for many of the most successful candidates in targeted Senate, gubernatorial, Congressional, and down ballot races across the country. The firm also produced critical ballot measures on adult-use cannabis (MD Question 4), early voting (CT Question 1), and the indigent tax levy (Hamilton County, OH Issue 8). SKDK produced over 600 TV, OTT, radio, streaming audio, OOH, and print ads this cycle to secure key wins including Governor-elect Wes Moore of Maryland, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Governor Laura Kelly of Kansas, and Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut.
“Our candidates defied the odds and made history this past Tuesday in the midterms. We are incredibly proud to have supported so many successful – and strong – Democratic campaigns across the ballot, on the issues voters care most about, like lowering prescription drug costs, defending reproductive rights, supporting economic initiatives, improving education, making communities safer, and committing to making sure nobody is left behind,” said SKDK Partner and incoming CEO Doug Thornell. “SKDK served as strategists and ad-makers to tell these important stories and win in ways that buck historical midterm trends for the party in power.”
In Maryland, SKDK was proud to produce TV and digital ads for Wes Moore and Aruna Miller’s historic, high-energy grassroots campaign to become the first Black Governor and first woman of color Lieutenant Governor in the state, respectively. For Senator Mark Kelly’s reelection in Arizona, SKDK produced over 50 ads alone to beat back a flood of Republican spending and secure victory in this majority-making seat. In red Kansas, SKDK served as lead ad-makers and strategists for Governor Laura Kelly, the only top-ticket Democrat to win in a state won by Donald Trump in ‘16 and ‘20. In Connecticut, the firm served as ad-makers and strategists for Governor Ned Lamont, who defeated a well-funded opponent and nearly set a new record for gubernatorial votes in the state, and Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz.
In the House of Representatives, SKDK was proud to be part of the campaign teams that helped reelect Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Rep. Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Rep. Joe Morelle (NY-25), Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Rep. Brian Higgins (NY-27), Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11), Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), and Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02); and elect new members Glenn Ivey (MD-04) and Jill Tokuda (HI-02).
In down-ballot races in Connecticut, SKDK helped successfully win elections for Erick Russell for state Treasurer, becoming the first Black LGBTQ+ statewide elected official in the country, and Sean Scanlon to serve as the state’s Comptroller. In Massachusetts, we helped secure Secretary of the Commonwealth Bill Galvin’s unprecedented eighth term. We still await final results for Kris Mayes, running for Attorney General in Arizona.
In the Senate, SKDK was proud to partner with the Senate Majority PAC to produce digital ads for New Hampshire Senator Maggie Hassan and Washington Senator Patty Murray’s successful reelection and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) to advance Senator Raphael Warnock to a run-off in December. Additionally, SKDK worked with Democratic Attorney General Association (DAGA) to help re-elect Dana Nessel in Michigan and the Giffords PAC to fend off Republican candidates in Colorado and Pennsylvania.
SKDK also served as the lead media consultant for the NAACP’s effort to turn out Black voters in key states across the country, and for Climate Power and the League of Conservation Voters’ “Climate Votes” program – a targeted digital campaign targeting young voters and people of color in key states and districts.
Notably, SKDK also worked on a number of critical ballot measures this cycle – leading the digital admaking and media relations efforts for the “Yes on 4” campaign to legalize adult-use cannabis in Maryland and the amendment to allow for a system of early voting in Connecticut’s state constitution. In Hamilton County, OH, SKDK helped pass the health and hospitalization ballot initiative to fund critical healthcare services for uninsured, underinsured, and incarcerated Ohioans.
About SKDK
SKDK is the nation’s leading Democratic advertising and strategic communications firm bringing unparalleled experience from our experience on seven presidential campaigns, helping elect hundreds of members of Congress, senators, mayors, governors, and local elected officials.
In 2020, members of SKDK served as key advisers to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently the recipient of six American Association of Political Consultant’s Pollie Awards in 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com.
###
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Celebrates Historic Wins in 2022 Midterms, Supports Democratic CandidatesAs Senior Vice President in Firm’s NYC Office, Lyons will support both SKDK and Sloane & Company’s corporate accounts
New York, NY – Today, SKDK announced Sarah (Chaikin) Lyons has joined the firm’s New York City office as a Senior Vice President of the Public Affairs practice. Lyons brings two decades of expertise in corporate and executive brand building, crisis and reputation management to her role at the firm, where she will support corporate, technology, and healthcare clients at both SKDK and Sloane.
“Sarah has long supported the work of SKDK’s major health care clients as a consultant, and her addition as a full-time Senior Vice President provides us with an outstanding opportunity to further deploy her expertise throughout our public affairs practice. Sarah’s exceptional client services and leadership for major brands and publicly traded entities will help support our explosive growth in corporate and private sector business,” said Mike Morey, Partner at SKDK. “Sarah’s savviness as a comms strategist is unmatched and we are grateful to have her onboard.”
Whit Clay, Co-CEO of Sloane & Company added: “I have known Sarah for 16 years, since her days leading corporate communications at Cablevision. Sarah is strategic, creative and collaborative. Her expertise in the entertainment and healthcare space will be incredibly beneficial to supporting our deep and growing work in both sectors.”
Lyons’s more than 20 year communications career spans entertainment and corporate brand building for public and private companies in entertainment, technology and healthcare. Since early 2021, Lyons has worked with SKDK’s corporate clients in a consultant role supporting its healthcare clients. Prior, she served as the Vice President of Corporate Communications for AMC Networks, where she was responsible for the development and execution of internal and external communications strategies in support of content, creative deals, advertising sales, data, distribution and new businesses. Before AMC Networks, Lyons held senior communications roles at Cablevision where she oversaw communications for high-profile PR matters involving consumer products and services, operations, critical business issues and crises, and complex regulatory challenges. Lyons also held various communications and publicity roles at Oxygen Media.
“I’m beyond excited to join SKDK, as well as support Sloane & Company, two firms who collectively represent the gold standard for public affairs and financial communications and who I have had the privilege of working closely with for many years,” said Lyons. “I have gotten to know the teams well and am incredibly impressed by the profusion of talent at every level and I look forward to supporting our expansion in the corporate communications space.”
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key adviser to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, the challenger network built to transform marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellglobal.com.
About Sloane & Company
Founded in 1998, Sloane & Company is an industry-leading strategic communications firm providing seasoned expertise across corporate communications; media relations; investor relations; crisis communications, activism defense & special situations; and public & regulatory affairs. The firm’s leadership is actively involved in all aspects of client work—leveraging a deep understanding of the media, capital markets, and global political and social issues to build, enhance and execute full-service communications strategies for its clients. The company was recognized by The Holmes Report as the 2015 U.S. and Global Corporate Agency of the Year and as Crisis Agency of the Year in both 2012 and 2010.
Sloane is an independent subsidiary of SKDK and resides within the Stagwell Global network of agencies. For more information about Sloane & Company, visit https://sloanepr.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn and Twitter.
####
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Sarah Lyons, Former Communications Executive for AMC Networks & Cablevision, Joins SKDKMcCarthy to Serve as Senior Vice President in Firm’s DC Office
Washington, D.C. – Today, SKDK announced Aoife McCarthy has joined the firm’s Washington, D.C. office as a Senior Vice President of the public affairs practice. McCarthy brings more than 15 years of communications experience from both the public and private sectors to her new role at the firm, where she will work across corporate and advocacy accounts.
“Aoife is a deeply talented and dynamic communications strategist – with expertise that spans every area of public affairs,” said Jill Zuckman, Partner at SKDK. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the firm, and look forward to the leadership and brilliance she will bring to our diverse portfolio of advocacy and public affairs clients.”
Prior to joining SKDK, McCarthy was most recently leading federal policy communications at Instacart, where she advised national communications campaigns to educate stakeholders about key policies, regulatory issues, and legislation. Before Instacart, McCarthy served in a number of senior communications roles for the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, the Global Climate Action Summit, Obama for America, as well as several private sector entities.
During her time in the Obama Administration, McCarthy served as the Director of Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy, where she was the lead advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Energy on all strategic communications issues, as well as message development in key subject matter areas. She also served as the Communications Director at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York. There, she oversaw the Press and Public Diplomacy section of the Mission and the messaging surrounding the long-term communications priorities of the Administration.
“I have long admired SKDK and I feel honored to be joining the best political consulting and communications firm in the business,” said McCarthy. “There is truly no company that brings together the intersection of press, politics and policy better than SKDK, and I look forward to supporting the team.”
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key adviser to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, the challenger network built to transform marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellglobal.com.
####
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Aoife McCarthy, Former Energy and State Department Communications Alum, Joins SKDK from InstacartLeading political consulting firm served as strategists and ad makers to numerous Democratic primary candidates in Tuesday’s Hotly-Contested Primary
New York, NY – SKDK, a leading Democratic communications and political consulting firm, congratulates five New York Democratic candidates – Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-17), Rep. Brian Higgins (NY-26), Robert Zimmerman (NY-3), Josh Riley (NY-19), Matt Castelli (NY-21) – on their primary victories. SKDK served as ad-maker and strategist across all of these campaigns.
“Tuesday was a very big day for Democrats in New York. Up and down the state, Democrats turned out to support the strongest possible candidates to win in competitive environments in November,” said Mike Morey, SKDK Partner. “SKDK is proud to have served as a strategic partner and ad maker for candidates throughout the state who ran in newly drawn congressional districts and were competing in some of the most competitive primaries.”
SKDK produced ads for the Rep. Maloney (NY-17), Rep. Higgins (NY-26), Zimmerman (NY-3), Riley (NY-19), and Castelli (NY-21) campaigns and served as strategic advisors, and in some cases, managed media relations.
Some sample television advertising includes:
Sean Patrick Maloney for NY-17
Robert Zimmerman for NY-3
Josh Riley For NY-19
Matt Castelli for NY-21
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key adviser to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, the challenger network built to transform marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellglobal.com.
####
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Candidates Win Big on New York Primary NightJosh Isay To Take New Role As Senior Counsel
Washington, D.C. – Doug Thornell will become the new CEO of SKDK at the end of the year as Josh Isay, the current CEO, assumes the role of senior counsel, advising the firm’s leadership.
Thornell, 46, will lead the political consulting and public affairs firm, overseeing day-to-day operations alongside partners Bill Knapp, Kerri Lyon, Mike Morey, and Jill Zuckman. He has spent more than two decades advising Democratic lawmakers, as well as Fortune 50 companies, and progressive and civil rights organizations. Thornell joined SKDK 12 years ago as a senior vice president in the public affairs practice. He was elevated to managing director in 2016 and named a partner in 2020. He currently oversees the firm’s highly successful paid media and political consulting practice. National Journal wrote that he “is one of the most plugged-in public affairs professionals in Washington.” He will become one of the few Black CEOs of a major public relations or political consulting firm in the US and globally. Thornell will continue to advise the firm’s political, corporate, and non-profit clients.
“Doug Thornell is a brilliant communications professional who combines a deep understanding of our business with exceptional motivational and leadership skills,” Isay said. “Doug has been an insightful and thoughtful adviser and confidante to me for over a decade and I know that SKDK is in great hands with him and all of SKDK’s partners — Bill, Kerri, Mike, and Jill. While I am proud of so much that SKDK has accomplished — from political victories to our corporate and philanthropic work — I consider the diverse and inclusive company that we have built together to be our greatest achievement and our most long-lasting legacy.”
Isay helped lead the company for 20 years — along with founding partners Bill Knapp, Anita Dunn, Jennifer Cunningham, and Hilary Rosen — as it expanded from political consulting into public affairs, adding DE&I strategy, crisis and executive communications, content creation, digital advertising, research and, with the acquisition of Sloane & Company, corporate and deal communications. The firm has grown to approximately 215 employees with $90 million in annual revenue.
Said Thornell: “I want to thank Josh Isay, my partners, and our parent company Stagwell for trusting me to lead this amazing company. SKDK is where it is today thanks to Josh’s and our team’s leadership and vision. I am grateful that he will remain with us as senior counsel. What makes SKDK so special is our talented and diverse team of strategists, creators, and problem solvers who provide our clients with the highest quality of work. SKDK is going to continue to grow and grow in a way that reflects the values of our firm. I’m committed to maintaining our top-notch quality and senior-level attention to candidates, causes, and clients.”
Jay Leveton, President of Stagwell, said, “I am delighted to see Doug Thornell lead SKDK, which has become the nation’s go-to Democratic public affairs and political consulting firm, handling the greatest causes and challenges of our time. The sky is the limit for SKDK.”
About Doug Thornell:
Doug was named the next CEO of SKDK following 12 years helping to build both the public affairs and paid media practice. Most recently, he led SKDK’s paid media and political practice during a period of historic growth and hard-fought victories.
He is one of the few Black media consultants in Democratic politics and has served as a top adviser to Presidential, House, Senate and gubernatorial campaigns, Fortune 50 companies, trade association, start-ups, and progressive and civil rights organizations. National Journal named him to their list of “50 People Changing the Game in Washington” and wrote that he “is one of the most plugged-in public affairs professionals in Washington.”
Over his 20-year career, Doug has been a lead media strategist to the Democratic National Committee, the top spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, a senior aide at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, and a top adviser to both Senator Chris Van Hollen and the Congressional Black Caucus, as well as the traveling spokesman for Governor Howard Dean’s 2004 presidential campaign.
Doug resides in Maryland with his wife, Katie, and their two dogs, Sam and Ernie. He graduated from Cornell University where he played varsity football and earned a degree in government.
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key adviser to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of Stagwell, the challenger network built to transform marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellglobal.com.
####
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Names Doug Thornell Next CEOWashington, D.C. – SKDK is investing in the next generation of industry leaders through a new partnership with Progressive Pipeline, which will expand growth opportunities for underrepresented talent by broadening the candidate pool for the firm’s internship program. Progressive Pipeline provides training, mentorship, and support to a diverse pool of more than 7,000 candidates and has deployed 220 fellows across 73 organizations.
“SKDK is made stronger by the diversity of our team – a commitment to equity, inclusion, and racial justice is at the core of who we are and the work we do,” said Rae Robinson, Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer of SKDK. “We are building a workforce that reflects the diverse experiences, perspectives, and identities of the world and fostering a culture that creates opportunities for everyone. SKDK’s partnership with Progressive Pipeline has been, and will continue to be, a key part of advancing those values.”
“By investing in this program and in our fellows, SKDK is a leader in building a diverse talent pipeline into consulting and communications,” said Michael Michaelson, Executive Director of Progressive Pipeline. “They’ve done real work to sustain an inclusive and equitable organization, and we consistently recommend them to folks from underrepresented backgrounds looking to launch their careers.”
“As an intern, I was able to get a feel for the public affairs work being done for clients in education, political advocacy, and the corporate beverage industry. I appreciated how each team included me in the projects and assignments, and I wanted to continue learning from these industry professionals. I hope to eventually become an industry leader and learn how to develop messaging for a campaign I want to support,” said Christian Hernandez, Former SKDK Progressive Pipeline Intern and Current SKDK Associate.
“I have been interning at SKDK since November 2021 thanks to their partnership with Progressive Pipeline. I was a recent college graduate in the middle of a pandemic who was looking for a start to my career in politics with no connections or even a place at the starting line. Now, I feel like I am contributing to something bigger than myself. I have improved my writing skills. I have learned to write press releases, social media toolkits, how to pitch to reporters, and how to navigate the most competitive media market in the country. I see multiple directions that my future can go. It’s my time to explore and see what I can do,” said Esmeralda Orozco, Current SKDK Progressive Pipeline Intern.
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key advisor to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and first woman, as Vice President. The influential Holmes Report once again named SKDK as the North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year in 2019, following wins in 2015, 2016, and 2018. To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com.SKDK is a proud member of The Stagwell Group, a collaborative group of agencies who are out to “reinvent the holding company,” according to the Wall Street Journal. The Stagwell Group portfolio includes more than a dozen best-in-class, digital-first agencies who are focused on what modern CMOs need. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellgroup.com.
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Partners With Progressive Pipeline to Invest in Next Generation of Industry LeadersNew York, NY – Today, SKDK announced a number of promotions to the senior leadership team, including a DC Chief of Staff, three Managing Directors and three Executive Vice Presidents. Together with the firm’s partners and current leadership, these new senior executives will focus on overseeing and growing the firm’s diverse portfolio of public affairs and cause-oriented clients.
“The talent at SKDK is unmatched and I have never been prouder of the team than I am today,” said CEO Josh Isay. “Despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, the individuals we are promoting today have continued to deliver exemplary work for our clients and be leaders at the firm. I look forward to the year ahead with this roster of talented communicators.”
This week, the Observer named SKDK one of the top PR firms in America, citing its work advocating for President Biden’s climate agenda with the political advocacy organization Climate Power; representing more than 1,000 victims of the Boy Scouts seeking justice for alleged abuse; and partnering with New Yorkers United for Justice to reduce incarceration and racial justice in the parole system.
The senior leadership promotions are as follows:
Cameron French takes over as the new DC Public Affairs Chief of Staff, the first person of color to hold the position. French, who continues to serve as a Senior Vice President in Public Affairs has been with the firm since 2018 where he has led teams across sectors in technology, housing and progressive advocacy. He previously served as a senior spokesperson for the Biden-Harris Transition and worked as an Obama appointee including time at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and with the 2008 and 2012 Obama-Biden campaigns.
Michael Czin has been promoted to Managing Director in the DC office. Czin has been with the firm since 2016, where he has helped clients navigate complex crises and led campaigns for progressive advocates, companies and trade associations. Michael recently returned to SKDK after taking a leave of absence to serve as a Senior Advisor in the White House Counsel’s Office. He previously served as DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s communications director, and as national press secretary for the Democratic National Committee.
Kendra Barkoff Lamy has been promoted to Managing Director in the DC office. Lamy joined SKDK in 2016 after serving as press secretary to then-Vice President Biden. While at SKDK, Lamy has worked on a number of high profile matters ranging from climate change and Native American issues to government whistleblower cases, as well as representing victims of sexual assault and abuse. More recently, she served as senior adviser to Administrator Regan at the Environmental Protection Agency during a leave of absence from the firm.
Devon Puglia has been promoted to Managing Director in the New York office. Previously the Communications Director for Connecticut Governor Dan Malloy, Puglia has been with the firm since 2018 and leads political campaigns, education projects, and public affairs accounts, advising Governors, elected officials, advocacy campaigns, and education leaders nationwide on communications.
Liz Kenigsberg has been promoted to Executive Vice President in the DC office. Kenigsberg has been with the firm since 2015 and runs public affairs and crisis communications for a diverse portfolio of clients, with an emphasis on cybersecurity and technology. She previously worked on Capitol Hill, campaigns and with the Office of the First Lady.
Alex Bloom has been promoted to Executive Vice President in the New York office. Over the past five years with SKDK, Bloom has led a broad range of public affairs campaigns and crisis engagements, working closely with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Win, Open Society Foundations, the Hewlett Foundation, and Columbia Business School. He has a background as a newspaper reporter and has worked on multiple New England political campaigns.
Stephanie Reichin has been promoted to Executive Vice President in the New York office. Reichin, who continues to serve as NY Public Affairs Chief of Staff, has been with the firm since 2015 leading public affairs campaigns and profile elevation efforts for a broad range of nonprofit, philanthropic and arts and culture clients including The Rockefeller Foundation, the National Institute for Reproductive Health, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Shed, Girls Who Code, Girl Scouts, and Bloomberg Philanthropies.
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key advisor to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and first woman, as Vice President. SKDK has won the Holmes Report’s influential North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year multiple times and was recently listed by the Observer’s as one of the best public relations firms in America for 2022.
To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com. SKDK is a proud member of The Stagwell Group, a collaborative group of agencies who are out to “reinvent the holding company,” according to the Wall Street Journal. The Stagwell Group portfolio includes more than a dozen best-in-class, digital-first agencies who are focused on what modern CMOs need. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellgroup.com.
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on SKDK Announces Key Senior Leadership Promotions
Washington, D.C. – Today, SKDK announced Mariel Sáez will join the firm’s Washington D.C. office as a Senior Vice President of the public affairs practice. Sáez comes to SKDK from President Biden’s White House communications team, where she served as the Director of Broadcast Media. With over a decade of DC experience in senior roles in the Legislative and Executive Branch, Sáez will work across the firm to support public affairs and corporate clients.
“Mariel is one of the brightest talents in communications and broadcast media,” said Jill Zuckman, Partner. “From serving at the White House to Capitol Hill, she has worked at the highest levels of government and politics and will be an incredible asset to advising our clients. We couldn’t be happier to have her join our team.”
As White House Director of Broadcast Media, Sáez served as the Administration’s point person for over 2,700 interviews in the first year of the Biden presidency. As the Administration worked to communicate about the economic recovery, COVID-19, national security, and other top policy priorities, she developed and implemented the broadcast media strategy; worked closely with the networks to shape coverage of the Administration and negotiate interviews, town halls, and special events; and briefed Senior Administration Officials and Cabinet Secretaries ahead of their media appearances. Prior to her role at the White House, Sáez served as Deputy Communications Director for the Presidential Inaugural Committee and as Women’s Media Director for the Biden-Harris presidential campaign. For over a decade prior to that, Sáez worked on Capitol Hill for House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer, serving in a variety of roles to include his Deputy Communications Director. In that role, she served as his spokeswoman, helped communicate the House legislative agenda and coordinate the messaging strategy for the House Democratic Caucus, and provided strategic and crisis communications advice. Originally from Maryland, Sáez earned a bachelor’s degree in economics at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
“It’s been an honor to work in government and politics for over a decade, and I’m very excited to bring my experience to SKDK, which has earned a reputation as one of the most effective and respected public affairs firms in the country,” said Sáez. “I have long admired the talented and diverse team at the firm, and I’m honored to be working alongside them to deliver results for our clients and shape the way some of our country’s most important organizations and businesses tell their stories.”
About SKDK
SKDK is a top national communications and political consulting firm bringing unparalleled strategic communications experience to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropic organizations and labor unions, as well as political committees and candidates. With offices in Washington, New York, Los Angeles and Albany, SKDK offers strategic support to managing a crisis, protecting a brand, advocating an issue or winning an election.
In 2020, SKDK was a key advisor to the Biden for President campaign and helped to make history by electing Joe Biden as President of The United States and Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Black, Asian-American and first woman, as Vice President. The influential Holmes Report once again named SKDK as the North America Public Affairs Agency of the Year in 2019, following wins in 2015, 2016, and 2018. To learn more about SKDK, visit our website at www.skdknick.com.SKDK is a proud member of The Stagwell Group, a collaborative group of agencies who are out to “reinvent the holding company,” according to the Wall Street Journal. The Stagwell Group portfolio includes more than a dozen best-in-class, digital-first agencies who are focused on what modern CMOs need. Learn more about Stagwell at www.stagwellgroup.com.
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Senior Biden Communications Advisor Mariel Sáez Joins SKDK ← Older posts