From the Newsroom to the Boardroom: Lessons in Leadership and Resilience for PR Leaders

In today’s ever-evolving communication landscape, adaptability and authenticity aren’t just buzzwords — they’re essential strategies for impactful leadership. My recent feature in ValiantCEO Magazine gave me the opportunity to reflect on my career journey and the values that fuel success for the team at Etched Communication, and for the diverse clients who rely on our public relations (PR) counsel and crisis management expertise.

Starting my career as a journalist at CBS News, I saw how my love for storytelling translated into news dialogue. Those experiences shaped my approach to PR, where effective communication under pressure became second nature. At Etched Communication, we’ve carried this ethos forward, helping clients — from political leaders to Fortune 500 companies — navigate challenges and elevate their brands with purpose-driven narratives.

This journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Rapid growth over the past year tested our resilience, but it also reinforced the importance of scalable systems, transparent communication, and investing in team well-being. Growth requires balance, and our team’s shared commitment to excellence has been our compass through it all.

Leadership during a crisis, I’ve learned, is about clarity, calm, and empathy. Whether it’s navigating a client’s reputational risk or responding to unforeseen challenges, staying centered and collaborative is key. Transparent communication builds trust, while a proactive mindset ensures readiness for whatever comes next.

To my PR colleagues and comms pros: What’s your approach to balancing growth with maintaining authenticity and resilience? Let’s continue this dialogue on what it means to lead effectively in complex times.

Read the full feature here: https://bit.ly/3DqsaAJ