Crisis Communications Manager
The calm in the chaos—this role leads the charge during brand crises, crafting messagingThe core idea you communicate—what your brand says, how it says it, and why it matters. that protects trust and reputation.
What is a Crisis Communications Manager?
The voice of calm in the eye of the storm. Crisis comms managers craft timely, transparent messaging that protects trust and preserves reputation.
What does a Crisis Communications Manager do?
They prepare crisis protocols, manage real-time communication, handle media inquiries, and advise leadership when the pressure’s on.
What does this role look like in a creative agency?
At RIOT, this role keeps the brand steady when things get messy. It’s not about spin—it’s about authenticity, empathy, and speed under fire.
Dive Deeper
Crisis Communications Managers lead with clarity when everything else is noise. In agencies offering PRYour reputation, amplified—PR manages brand image through media outreach, storytelling, and strategic communication., brand reputationHow the world sees you—brand perception is the collective impression your audience has based on experiences, messaging, and reputation., or real-time campaign support, this role crafts messaging, coordinates responses, and guides brandsMore than a logo—brand is the essence of a company, shaping identity, reputation, and customer perception. through high-stakes moments—protecting trust while staying true to voice. It’s not about spin—it’s about presence, empathy, and leadership.
Related Glossary Terms
| Related Glossary Terms | Why It’s Relevant |
|---|---|
| Crisis Communication | The core practice—preparing, managing, and resolving brand crises through strategic messaging and control. |
| Stakeholder Communication | This role often manages internal and external communication to keep leadership, teams, and partners aligned. |
| Media Relations | Essential when managing press inquiries, public statements, or controlling the narrative in the media. |
| Thought Leadership Content | Post-crisis, strong POVs help reframe perception, rebuild trust, and show leadership in your category. |
| Messaging | Every word counts during a crisis—this role ensures tone, clarity, and consistency under pressure. |
Related Job Roles
| Related Job Roles | Why It’s Connected |
|---|---|
| Public Relations SpecialistThe voice behind the headlines—PR specialists build relationships with the press, shape narratives, and manage brand perception. | Often executes on the day-to-day press strategyThe playbook for success—strategy defines where you're headed, how you'll get there, and what will set you apart., while the crisis lead shapes the overall narrative. |
| Brand Manager | Ensures all crisis messaging aligns with the long-term brand voiceThe sound of your brand—brand voice defines the personality, tone, and style used in messaging to create a consistent and recognizable identity. and reputation goals. |
| Strategy Director | Advises on brand positioningCarving out your space—brand positioning defines how a brand stands apart in the market, shaping audience perception and competitive advantage. and long-term fallout planningScoping out the who, what, and when—essential for hitting deadlines and aligning teams. during and after a public issue. |
| Creative DirectorThe visionary leader—creative directors shape the concept, guide the team, and ensure every idea meets the brand’s highest potential. | In high-visibility crises, may help shape the visual or editorial tone of recovery messaging or campaignsStrategy meets storytelling—campaigns bring big ideas to life, driving awareness, engagement, and conversions through powerful, multi-channel messaging.. |
