Registration and Morning Coffee
Navigating Permacrisis in a Deeply Polarized World
Join Farnaz Khadem, Vice President for University Communications at Stanford University, for a compelling keynote on protecting and managing your organization's reputation amid the complexities of a deeply polarized world. In an era of Permacrisis, where societal divides and conflicts are ever-present, learn authentic strategies for taking a stand on contentious issues without alienating key audiences. Gain valuable insights into crisis planning tailored to today’s fragmented landscape, and discover the essential skills every crisis communicator needs to thrive. This session will equip you with the tools to effectively navigate polarization, maintain credibility, and build trust in an age of constant upheaval.
Farnaz Khadem, Vice President for University Communications, Stanford University
Navigating the Maze of AI-Fueled Disinformation: Strategies for Effective Response
Ask executives what threats they're concerned about nowadays and the chances are that disinformation will be high on the list. Join Edelman's Global Head of Digital Crisis Dave Fleet, who also oversees Edelman's Counter-Disinformation Unit, as he examines why concerns over disinformation are so pervasive nowadays, how AI facilitates the spread of false information and how to identify the warning signs. Discover proactive strategies for debunking and countering false narratives, and learn about collaborative efforts to enhance digital literacy and critical thinking skills. This session offers indispensable insights and actionable steps for navigating the complex landscape of misinformation with resilience and integrity.
Dave Fleet, Global Head of Digital Crisis, Edelman
AI in Crisis Communications: Tools and Strategies for Navigating the Future
This session explores how AI is transforming crisis communications, focusing on the tools PR professionals need to manage AI-driven crises. You'll learn how to utilize AI-powered tools for real-time monitoring and automated responses, and test your crisis plan through AI-driven simulations. Equip yourself with the knowledge to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape and ensure your crisis strategy is ready for future challenges.
Yumi WIlson, Professor, Broadcast and Electronic Communication Arts - San Francisco State University
Lunch for Speakers and Delegates
Steering Clear of Greenwashing: Strategies for Genuine and Impactful Sustainability Communication
Greenwashing poses a significant threat to the reputation of any organization, as consumers and stakeholders become more vigilant about the authenticity of environmental claims. In this session, learn how to navigate the delicate balance between promoting your sustainability efforts and avoiding misleading or exaggerated statements. We will explore key strategies for crafting honest and transparent messaging that resonates with your audience, maintains trust, and reinforces your organization’s commitment to genuine environmental responsibility. Discover practical approaches to ensure your sustainability communication stands up to scrutiny and builds a solid reputation for integrity in a world where every claim is examined under the microscope.
Conor Chell, National Leader ESG Legal Risk & Disclosure, KPMG Canada
Manpreet K Dhillon, Manager, ESG Legal Risk and Disclosure, KPMG Canada
Taking a Stand: Managing Political and Societal Issues in Crisis Situations
In today’s polarized world, brands and organizations face growing expectations to take a stand on political and societal issues. This session will explore the evolving landscape where public demand for transparency and accountability is at an all-time high. We’ll dive into how organizations can take a stand authentically, aligning their actions with their core values while maintaining credibility and trust.
Courtney will share practical strategies for engaging your employees and crafting messages that resonate and stay true to your brand identity. She’ll guide you on preparing for and managing potential backlash, including how to respond to criticism and navigate public scrutiny without compromising integrity. You'll walk away with actionable insights on preserving your organization's reputation while tackling the challenges of speaking out in a divided world.
Courtney D. Williams, Director, Equality Communications and Engagement, Salesforce
Networking and Refreshment Break
Mind Your Stakeholders! The Importance of Partnerships in Responding to – and Preventing – a Crisis
In today’s interconnected world, a crisis rarely affects just one organization. It can ripple through your network of partners, clients, suppliers, and communities. This session, led by Ari, will explore the critical role of stakeholder partnerships in crisis management. Learn how to foster strong relationships with key stakeholders that can help prevent crises before they emerge and respond swiftly when they do. Attendees will discover best practices for maintaining trust, managing communications, and ensuring coordinated actions during high-pressure situations.
Ari Indyk, Regional Director, Public Affairs & Partnerships, Vancouver Coastal Health
How to Successfully Measure Your Organization's Reputation Before, During, and After a Crisis
In an era of constant crises, your brand's reputation affects everything from customer loyalty to stakeholder trust. However, effectively measuring reputation can be challenging, especially during turbulent times.
Join Lisa Covens, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, Central Canada at Leger, as she breaks down the essential metrics and tools for evaluating your organization's reputation at every crisis stage. Lisa will share actionable strategies to establish a baseline before a crisis, monitor changes in real-time, and assess long-term impacts afterward.
Gain insights into using these metrics to guide strategic decisions, enhance your crisis response, and ultimately build a stronger, more resilient brand.
Lisa Covens, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, Central Canada, Leger
End of Day One
Crisis Communications Workshop: Mastering Crisis Response in an Unpredictable World with Kim Blanchette
Led by:
Kim Blanchette, Executive Vice President, Settlements, CASTLEMAIN | ARGYLE
In today’s world of rapid technological change, polarization, skepticism, and economic uncertainty, crises can arise without warning, and the response to them can make or break an organization's reputation. In an era where artificial intelligence, social media storms, and public distrust are the new norm, communicators need to be prepared to act quickly and decisively.
This hands-on workshop provides a unique opportunity to develop the skills, strategies, and confidence needed to navigate any crisis. Designed around a realistic disaster scenario, you will face a series of sudden developments and simulated events that require on-the-spot action, offering the closest experience to a live crisis response.
Why Attend?
- Engage in Realistic Crisis Simulations: Participate in a scenario-based exercise that unfolds with unexpected twists, challenging you to think on your feet and respond in real time. Experience the pressure of a live crisis while practicing key roles within the Incident Command System.
- Prepare for Media Scrutiny: Sharpen your communication skills by preparing for and managing media interviews amidst escalating operational impacts and reputational risks.
- Learn from the Latest Trends and Case Studies: Dive deep into the latest crisis trends, analyze real-world case studies from recent events, and gain valuable insights into what strategies work best when the stakes are high.
- Bonus Session: Harness the Power of AI: Discover the transformative potential of AI in crisis preparedness. Learn how AI can be leveraged to develop realistic crisis simulations, create challenging media scenarios, and enhance your overall crisis response capabilities—all while maintaining your organization’s confidentiality.
Key Benefits of Attending:
- Build confidence in your ability to manage any crisis effectively.
- Develop practical skills in crisis management through hands-on exercises.
- Learn how to assess the urgency of situations and respond with agility.
- Gain insights into creating effective communication strategies under pressure.
- Explore how AI can be used to elevate your crisis simulations and training.
- Connect with peers and experts, sharing knowledge and best practices.
Join this workshop to enhance your crisis communication skills, ensure your team is fully prepared, and turn challenging situations into opportunities for growth and resilience.
