Former Special Assistant to President Biden and longtime chief speechwriter to First Lady Dr. Jill Biden will co-lead SKDK’s Best-in-Class Writing and Media Training Team
Washington, DC – SKDK, the award-winning public affairs and political consulting agency, announced today that Amber Macdonald, former Special Assistant to President Biden and longtime chief speechwriter to First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, is joining the firm’s Executive Communications practice. Macdonald will co-lead the message development, ghostwriting, and media training team alongside Stephen Krupin, a former senior speechwriter to President Obama.
Before her service in the administration, on the 2020 presidential campaign, and at the Biden Foundation, Macdonald served as the director of speechwriting to Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Burwell and deputy director of speechwriting to Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. She has collaborated on speeches, books, and op-eds for heads of international corporations, award-winning actors, members of Congress, and advocates who have become household names.
A former actor and playwright who has performed at the renowned improv comedy theater Upright Citizens Brigade, Macdonald also draws upon her stage expertise to coach principals for their moments in the spotlight.
“With Amber’s extraordinary talent and invaluable experience, we will continue to shape powerful messages for a diverse range of corporate, nonprofit, and political leaders,” SKDK CEO Doug Thornell said. “Her arrival reinforces our dedication to providing unparalleled executive communications services, and we are proud to have two former senior presidential speechwriters leading the team.”
“I’m honored to join Stephen and the world-class communicators at SKDK. We share a commitment to helping leaders shape local, national, and international conversations with compelling and persuasive storytelling,” Macdonald said. “I’m excited to help grow this unique Executive Communications practice, which offers the personalized touch of a boutique firm alongside the expertise of a full-service public affairs powerhouse.”
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, professional athletes, 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, financial communications, and C-suite advisory, 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, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, 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 and its subsidiary businesses, Sloane & Company and Jasper Advisors, are proud members 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 News | Comments Off on White House Speechwriter Amber Macdonald Joins SKDK’s Executive Communications PracticeBringing Experience from Years Working on Political Campaigns and for Major Tech Companies, Nunes will Serve as Executive Vice President and Head of Paid Digital
Washington, DC – Today, SKDK announced that former Pete for America Director of Paid Media, Maxwell Nunes, has joined the firm’s Washington, D.C. office as an Executive Vice President and Head of Paid Digital. With over a decade of experience in digital strategy and managing media budgets exceeding $100 million, Nunes brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to enhance the firm’s digital capabilities for its political, corporate, and non-profit clients.
“We’re delighted to welcome Maxwell to our team,” said Doug Thornell, CEO of SKDK. “His strategic thinking and creative approach have earned him recognition as one of the most well-regarded digital strategists in Democratic politics. We know that Nunes and our exceptional Digital team will help our candidates win races and help our corporate and non-profit clients reach their audiences in the most targeted, strategic, and creative ways possible.”
Before SKDK, Nunes co-led his advertising and digital media firm for over three years. In 2020, he served as Pete for America’s Director of Paid Media, where he built the in-house team and oversaw online acquisition, persuasion, and mobilization efforts. Nunes has also held senior roles in digital media strategy for Terry McAuliffe for Virginia and Hillary for America and enriched his skill set by leading advertising and policy campaigns with major brands such as Airbnb and Google.
At SKDK, Maxwell Nunes will lead our award-winning digital team, building upon the firm’s 2022 successes, including spearheading Governor Wes Moore’s campaign’s digital efforts in Maryland, driving Senate Majority PAC’s ad campaign supporting Senator Maggie Hassan in New Hampshire, collaborating with Climate Power and the League of Conservation Voters’ “Climate Votes” initiative to mobilize young voters in key states.
“I am beyond excited about stepping into this new role and working with such a talented and dynamic group of creative, paid media, political, and public affairs strategists,” said Nunes. “Together, we have an incredible opportunity to drive impactful and creative digital strategies that tackle the most pressing issues and authentically communicate with the audiences our clients need to reach.”
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, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, 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 and its subsidiary businesses, Sloane & Company and Jasper Advisors, are proud members 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 News | Comments Off on Former Top Pete for America Digital Strategist Maxwell Nunes Joins SKDKAugust 2023 — Jacqui Newman, Chief Operating Officer, SKDK
April 2023 — Lucy MacIntosh, Vice President, SKDK
March 2023 — Quincy Mix, Operations Advisor, Sloane & Company
February 2023 — Valerie Keys, Senior Associate and DC Intern Coordinator, SKDK
Posted in News | Comments Off on SKDK-Sloane-Jasper Changemaker of the MonthLesswing to Serve as Senior Vice President in firm’s Public Affairs Practice in New York
New York, – Today SKDK announced Bryan Lesswing joined the firm’s Public Affairs practice in New York as a Senior Vice President. Lesswing comes to SKDK after serving as a Senior Advisor to Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY). In his new role at SKDK, he will support the firm’s corporate, crisis and advocacy clients, as well as contribute to its strategic growth. Lesswing brings over a decade of communications expertise to his role at SKDK, spanning politics, government, and advocacy.
Since 2019, Lesswing has served New York State Governor Kathy Hochul in a number of capacities, most recently serving as a Senior Advisor, providing strategic communications guidance on a host of issues and collaborating with the Governor’s senior staff and top Administration officials. In this role, he led communications for the Governor’s pandemic response, tackled other crisis communications, acted as an advisor to elect New York State’s first female Governor, and supported then-Lieutenant Governor Hochul’s transition to becoming Governor. In 2023, Lesswing was named in City & State New York’s Albany Power 100 list.
“We are excited to welcome Bryan to the SKDK family,” said Doug Thornell, CEO of SKDK. “His experience at the highest levels of state government and expertise in communications, politics, and advocacy makes him a perfect fit for SKDK and our clients. With Bryan’s addition, our firm continues to build the deepest roster of talented and connected strategists in public affairs and political consulting,” said Thornell.
Marissa Shorenstein, the former director of the executive transition for Governor Hochul and a principal at SKDK, added, “I have witnessed firsthand the exceptional leadership and dedication Bryan brings to any challenge. His qualities will make him an invaluable asset to the team at SKDK.”
Prior to his time on Governor Hochul’s team, Lesswing worked as a seasoned campaign operative on competitive federal and state campaigns in Illinois, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. During the 2018 election cycle, Lesswing served as a communications director for U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin’s (D-WI) first re-election campaign after advising winning candidates across the country for EMILY’s List and serving as the Northeast Regional Press Secretary for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
Lesswing volunteers in his spare-time with Blue Leadership Collaborative, an organization dedicated to retaining and developing diverse campaign leaders. Lesswing graduated from DePauw University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History. He lives in New York City.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to work for Governor Hochul and serve alongside her talented team, and I could not be more excited to start this next chapter with the best and brightest at SKDK,” said Lesswing. “There is no better firm on the pulse of press, politics and policy and the progressive change happening across the country.”
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, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, 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 and its subsidiary businesses, Sloane & Company and Jasper Advisors, are proud members 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 News | Comments Off on Senior Advisor to Governor Hochul Bryan Lesswing Joins SKDKDeal Unites Experienced C-Suite Advisors with Nationally Renowned Strategic Communications Firm, and Brings Jasper Advisors into Stagwell’s (STGW) network
Jasper Advisors Will Operate as an Independent Subsidiary of SKDK, Keeping its Name and Leadership Structure
Washington, DC – SKDK, a nationally recognized public affairs and political consulting firm, and part of the growing Stagwell network, today announced it has acquired Jasper Advisors, a c-suite advisory firm, founded by Julie Andreeff Jensen and David Sutphen. Under the deal, Jasper and its team will remain an independent subsidiary led by Jensen and Sutphen, and continue advising its growing roster of clients across business and sports. Together Jasper and SKDK create an unparalleled combination uniquely positioned to help clients strengthen their reputations and navigate an increasingly complicated landscape at the intersection of business, politics, media, and policy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jasper Advisors to the SKDK family. I have known both Julie and David for nearly 20 years and they are two of the most talented and respected reputation strategists in the business, said Doug Thornell, CEO of SKDK. “By joining forces with Jasper we can offer clients an unmatched and even deeper level of senior strategic counsel, breadth of experience, and diversity of executive talent, further strengthening our industry leading capabilities. Our shared values and commitment to working for clients on issues that matter in the world also make this partnership a perfect match for SKDK,” continued Thornell.
With decades of experience at the highest levels of business, government, and civil society, David and Julie bring a multidimensional perspective to client work. Jensen has been a trusted advisor to some of the most recognizable names in business, politics, and sports. Prior to founding Jasper, Jensen held c-suite roles at the Washington Football Team and Citadel, where she built the corporate affairs functions and oversaw the firm’s reputation, philanthropic, and brand strategy. She joined Citadel from Brunswick where she was a partner and advised Fortune 500 companies and CEOs. Earlier in her career, Julie worked as a senior advisor on numerous Democratic Presidential and Gubernatorial campaigns. Sutphen is a multi-faceted advisor with a diverse background spanning business, government, entertainment, and civil society. He was a c-suite executive at 2U, reporting to the CEO, ran the Brunswick, Washington DC office, and held senior positions in the media and entertainment industry. Before moving to the private sector, Sutphen served as General Counsel to the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the Judiciary Committee and Chief of Staff to Congressman Harold Ford Jr. He serves on numerous non-profit and corporate boards.
Jensen, Founder and Co-CEO added, “joining forces with SKDK is a strategic opportunity to accelerate our vision for Jasper and work with people we trust and respect. Our growing sports practice advising teams, brands, and individuals is a particularly exciting, and differentiated, focus of expansion for Jasper and SKDK.”
“As we continue building Jasper into a leading c-suite advisory firm, our existing and future clients will now benefit from the deeper bench of best-in-class talent, depth of experience and capabilities, and strategic savvy that our two firms can deliver together,” said Sutphen, Founder and Co-CEO. “We’re thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Doug and the entire SKDK team.”
Based in DC, Jasper Advisors was founded in September of 2022. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed, and this deal follows SKDK’s prior acquisition of Sloane & Company in February 2020.
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.
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.
About Jasper Advisors
Founded by Julie Andreeff Jensen and David Sutphen, Jasper Advisors is a boutique consultancy that advises CEOs, Fortune 500 companies, and emerging businesses; non-profit leaders and organizations; and prominent individuals on managing their reputation and navigating the change, challenges, and opportunities that come with operating in today’s complex, multi-stakeholder world.
Posted in News | Comments Off on Jasper Advisors, Founded by Julie Andreeff Jensen and David Sutphen, Join Forces with SKDKLed by Pia Carusone and Alex Bloom, Cause-oriented Public Affairs Firm will Build Presence
Washington, D.C. – Today, SKDK announced the launch of its New England practice, which will focus on strategic communications and campaigns across the region. The practice will be led by President of SKDK Political Pia Carusone and Executive Vice President Alex Bloom, two strategists with deep experience in New England.
SKDK’s expansion into New England is a natural extension of the firm’s work in the region. SKDK and its sister agency Sloane & Company have built an extensive portfolio of New England engagements, including work with Steward Health Care, Gillette, Panera Bread, Hartford HealthCare, and National Grid. Over the past two election cycles, the team advised the winning campaigns of Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH), Massachusetts Secretary of State Bill Galvin, and more.
Under the direction of Carusone and Bloom, the firm will offer best-in-class strategic communications and advertising support to campaigns and businesses across the region. SKDK provides a range of services for clients, including message development, crisis management, PR and opinion research, digital and social media content creation, creative design, and ad production and media placement. Our sister firm, Blue Wall Mail, is the direct mail team that led President Joe Biden’s 2020 mail strategy.
In 2022, SKDK produced nearly 600 ads and were the lead makers and strategists to Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, the NAACP, Climate Power and host of other candidates and organizations. The Observer named SKDK one of the top PR firms in both 2022 and 2023, citing its continued stream of top rate talent, work advocating for President Biden’s climate agenda; 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.
“SKDK is proud to be at the center of the biggest issues facing our country – from electing Joe Biden to the White House, to fighting for reproductive rights, to protecting the environment,” said Doug Thornell, CEO of SKDK. “We succeed by focusing on what works – smart, sharp messaging and a tenacious approach to media campaigns. We’re excited to be expanding our national work with a dedicated practice in New England.”
A 15-year veteran of campaign and branding leadership, Carusone oversees the day-to-day management of the firm’s political department. She most recently led U.S. Senator Mark Kelly’s reelection victory in 2022 as the lead strategist and ad maker, after first leading in the 2020 special election win. In New Hampshire, where her roots in politics began with Howard Dean’s presidential campaign, Carusone led Congressman Chris Pappas’ 2018 and 2022 wins in New England’s most competitive district. Carusone’s campaign work also includes guiding Ritchie Torres to victory in NY-15, defeating a powerful anti-choice, anti-equality opponent. Previously, she served as the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security in the Obama Administration, following her tenure in communications positions in Congress.
“In today’s fast-paced news cycle, it’s important to have an experienced team that can help you navigate the media landscape so that your message and campaigns are reaching the right people,” said Pia Carusone, Managing Director and President of SKDK Political. “SKDK knows how to help candidates and businesses break through the noise at every level – national, state, and local – and we’re looking forward to working with New England institutions, foundations, and campaigns to succeed.”
Bloom, who has worked on multiple Massachusetts campaigns and as a former newspaper reporter, brings more than a decade of communications experience to the New England practice. In six years with SKDK, he has directed high-impact campaigns and outreach for clients including Columbia Business School, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and the Open Society Foundations. He previously advised Boston Mayor Marty Walsh’s campaign in 2020 and worked on campaigns for Attorney General candidate Warren Tolman and Congresswoman Katherine Clark. Before joining SKDK, Bloom spent three years with O’Neill and Associates, where he worked with 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, the Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589, Stonehill College, and HarborOne Bank, among others. He started his career as a reporter, writing for The Enterprise, The Eagle-Tribune, and The Arizona Republic. Bloom is a Somerville resident and a Tufts University graduate.
“With a track record of success nationally and in the region, SKDK has experience leading campaigns to victory and guiding companies to meet their goals,” said Executive Vice President Alex Bloom. “New England is home to the world’s most advanced businesses, forward-thinking foundations, leading universities, and best hospitals and medical centers, and we are looking forward to helping them tell their stories.”
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.
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Posted in News | Comments Off on SKDK Launches New England PracticeLeadership appointments will support key growth areas; promotions include President of SKDK Political and Managing Director in the Public Affairs practice
Washington, D.C. – SKDK, a nationally recognized public affairs and political consulting firm, today announced promotions to the senior leadership team. The newly elevated senior level staff will focus on overseeing and growing the firm’s public affairs, cause-oriented, and political clients.
“The strength and resilience of SKDK comes from our people and today it is with great pride that I announce senior level promotions,” said CEO Doug Thornell. “In addition to continuing to serve as invaluable support to our clients and the causes we work for, this newly promoted group of strategists will help us forge ahead as the firm continues to grow and scale nationally, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead.”
The senior leadership promotions are as follows:
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.
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Posted in News | Comments Off on SKDK Announces Senior Leadership Promotions Across All Service AreasFrazier to Serve as Executive Vice President in firm’s New York Public Affairs Practice
New York, NY – Today, SKDK announced Michael Frazier joined SKDK’s Public Affairs practice in New York as an Executive Vice President. Frazier will support corporate, crisis, and advocacy clients, as well as develop business and engage in leadership initiatives at the firm. Frazier brings over two decades of communications expertise to his role at SKDK, spanning journalism, politics, advocacy, and business.
“We are so fortunate to have Michael join the team,” said SKDK CEO, Doug Thornell. “He is among the most accomplished communications professionals in the state of New York and will play a critical role as an adviser to our clients across the non-profit, corporate and advocacy spaces.”
“I am so excited to be part of the next chapter at SKDK, one of the most widely respected public affairs firms in the country,” said Frazier. “I’ve long followed and admired the firm’s work and I’m proud to join this world-class team.”
A former reporter for Newsday and the Associated Press, Frazier spent more than a decade at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, playing a key role in shaping communications around one of the most consequential and hallowed sites in the United States. He also served in a top communications role at Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), and in 2020, Frazier served as national spokesperson for Mike Bloomberg’s presidential campaign.
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.
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Posted in News | Comments Off on Veteran Public Affairs Strategist Michael Frazier Joins SKDKPractice 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 News | 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.
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