Mastering Modern Crisis Communications: Strategies for Preparedness, Response & Recovery
In an era of constant change, effective crisis communication is more crucial than ever. This session will provide a practical framework for anticipating potential crises, assessing risks, and strengthening your organization's readiness. Learn how to craft agile response strategies, manage media relations under pressure, and facilitate a smooth recovery post-crisis. Walk away with actionable insights and proven tactics to future-proof your crisis communication approach.
Andrew Forgione, Senior Director, Public Affairs, Canada, Gilead Sciences
AI Impact on Crisis Management: Leveraging AI for Crisis Response and Mitigating AI-Related Crises
AI is transforming the way organizations approach crisis management. In this session, Greg will explore how AI-driven tools and technologies are reshaping crisis response strategies. From predictive analytics and sentiment tracking to automated response systems, discover how AI can help you detect potential crises early and respond with precision. Greg will also address the unique risks posed by AI, including deepfakes, disinformation, and ethical concerns, providing actionable steps for mitigating these threats. Walk away with a clear understanding of how to harness AI for proactive crisis management while staying ahead of emerging AI-related challenges.
Greg Vanier, Head of Crisis & Reputation Risk, Edelman Canada
The Top Skills for Crisis Communicators in a Polarized World
In a world marked by division and heightened sensitivities, crisis communicators face unprecedented challenges in maintaining trust and credibility. In this insightful session, Katherine will highlight the essential skills every crisis communicator needs to succeed in today’s polarized landscape. From crafting empathy-driven messaging to mastering rapid response techniques, Katherine will provide practical guidance on how to engage diverse audiences without compromising your organization’s values. Discover how to leverage digital tools for proactive engagement, strengthen your ability to manage public scrutiny, and build resilience in the face of intense public pressure. Walk away with a clear roadmap for enhancing your crisis communication skills and leading with confidence during turbulent times.
Katherine Wolfgang, Head of PR, CBC
Mastering the Unexpected: Crisis Readiness Through Simulation & Strategy
In an era of constant change and unpredictability, it feels like we live in a time of permacrisis. The weight of preparation feels heavier every day, and sometimes the idea of responding to a crisis provokes more concern than the crisis itself. It doesn't have to. This session is rooted in a place of optimism, that you and your team can handle any crisis that comes your way. All it takes is some self-preparation, as well as some planning with your internal and external peers. This session will guide you through a series of useful and practical thought exercises to help you identify potential threats, steady yourself with the right preparation and then test your skills with live simulations of any level of complexity. You'll come away feeling more confident about your team's readiness, with the direction you need to keep strengthening yourselves to put in a heroic effort when the situation calls for it.
Robin Smith, Strategic Communications Director, Toronto Community Housing
Preparing the Next Generation of Crisis Communicators
As the crisis landscape grows more complex, the next generation of crisis communicators must be equipped with fresh perspectives and future-ready skills. In this session, Greg will delve into the strategies and approaches required to cultivate a new wave of crisis leaders. Learn how to identify and develop rising talent within your organization, foster a growth mindset, and prepare communicators to face emerging challenges like AI-driven misinformation, polarization, and reputational risks. Discover how to design mentorship programs, enhance critical thinking abilities, and build a talent pipeline that ensures your crisis communication team is agile, diverse, and ready for anything. This session will provide actionable insights for developing the communicators who will shape the future of crisis response.
Greg Trevor, Associate Vice President and University Spokesperson, University of Georgia
Incorporating DEI Principles in Crisis Strategies
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are no longer optional in crisis communication — they are essential. In this powerful session, Renee will explore how embedding DEI principles into your crisis strategies can strengthen trust, improve decision-making, and foster authentic engagement with diverse audiences. Learn how to craft inclusive messaging that resonates with all stakeholders, avoid common missteps that lead to reputational damage, and ensure your crisis response reflects your organization’s values. Renee will share real-world examples and actionable strategies for integrating DEI into every stage of crisis planning and response, empowering you to build stronger, more inclusive communication frameworks.
Renee Weekes Duncan, Senior Vice President, Golin Canada
Inside Out: Best Practices for Internal Communications During Crisis Situations
Effective internal communication is the backbone of successful crisis management. In this session, you will explore the essential strategies and best practices for keeping employees informed, engaged, and aligned during times of uncertainty. From timely messaging to fostering trust and transparency, attendees will learn how to maintain morale, prevent misinformation, and support their internal stakeholders throughout the crisis lifecycle. This session will provide actionable insights and real-world examples to ensure their internal communication approach is proactive, empathetic, and impactful.
David Oille, Senior Adviser, Strategic Communications, CBC/Radio-Canada
A Full Day Crisis Simulation Workshop: Updating Your Crisis Plan in an Era of Growing Skepticism and Polarization
In a world marked by increasing skepticism and polarization, traditional crisis plans are no longer sufficient. Join Kathryn Kolaczek for an immersive, hands-on workshop designed to help you rethink and update your crisis communication strategy to address the evolving challenges of today's landscape. This interactive session will guide you through real-world scenarios, including navigating cancel culture, taking a stand amid political and social divides, and managing sensitive issues like layoffs and perceived inauthenticity. Working closely with your peers, you will practice effective use of social media, conduct challenging media interviews, and handle a high-stakes press conference in an environment where every word is scrutinized.
By the end of this workshop, you will return to your organization with:
- Ten cutting-edge crisis communication strategies tailored for an era of skepticism and polarization
- A clear action plan to boost executive readiness and response capabilities
- Enhanced skills for communicating under pressure in an increasingly hostile environment
You will also learn how to:
- Strike the right balance between preparation and rapid response in your crisis plan
- Critically assess your organization’s tone, language, and social media presence during a crisis
- Respond effectively to aggressive questioning in media interviews
- Reassess and strengthen your crisis communication strategy to better navigate the complexities of today's polarized world.
Prepare to leave with the tools and insights necessary to ensure your organization is crisis-ready in a time of unprecedented scrutiny and division.
About Your Workshop Leader:
Kathryn Kolaczek is the CEO of Alchemy Communications, bringing extensive experience in communications, media, and public relations. She specializes in crisis management, crisis communications, PR, digital marketing, and brand integration. As a leader, Kathryn guides Alchemy in developing strategic communications and marketing plans, identifying risks and opportunities, and ensuring high standards of quality and efficiency.
Kathryn is an engaging speaker and author, frequently sharing her expertise in crisis communications with other entrepreneurs and professionals. With a deep commitment to crisis management, she helps organizations navigate high-stakes conversations and media relations, protecting their reputations and fostering growth.
Under Kathryn’s leadership, Alchemy offers comprehensive crisis communications support and integrates inbound marketing with traditional communications strategies. The firm collaborates with businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities to educate communities, manage risks, and handle complex conversations effectively.