Navigating Media Scrutiny During Pandemic Politicization

Our Client

A government contracting firm that employs scientists and subject matter experts who specialize in global public health work.

The Issue

An unknown company comprised of high-minded intellectuals and academics, unaccustomed to navigating agenda-driven politicians and the media, found itself susceptible to media attention during the global pandemic.

The Challenge

COVID-19 drove further polarization in the public health space, especially regarding the federal government’s role in combatting the pandemic.

The level of interest and animosity aimed at this ensuing global event potentially opened the client to unwarranted and baseless scrutiny. The risk of Congressional hearings and becoming part of the narrative in the upcoming 2024 election were palpable threats.

Given the client’s limited exposure to the spotlight; this potential media interest was unfamiliar to the company, and the C-suite needed a crash course in reputational defense and media relations to allow their employees to continue to do their important and challenging technical work.

The Opportunity

There is little opportunity in potential Congressional inquiry; this was an exercise in containment and mitigation. By developing robust crisis management protocols and training the C-suite, we could transform potential vulnerabilities into resilience. This period of scrutiny also allowed us to highlight the critical work of the client’s scientists, positioning them as vital contributors to the national pandemic response.

The Plan

We developed a comprehensive crisis plan, incorporating various mitigation strategies to prepare the client for existing challenges while preempting any future pitfalls.

In order to prepare for potential leaks or FOIAed correspondence, outside counsel was brought in to conduct an audit of relevant communications. We implemented formal procedures for outside communications and document preservation and retention.

Due to the broad nature of the client’s subject matter expertise and associated risks, we developed tailored presentations for the different divisions, outlining how to avoid creating business or reputational risks. Given the current political climate, it was important to explain the vulnerabilities they faced regardless of facts.

The Result

Though interest in the client’s work has not subsided, they are now equipped with procedures and protocols that will serve them as they receive different inquiries and requests. The individual employees are aware of potential threats and challenges they and the company face and have been trained on how to alleviate some of the risks. Most importantly, a reputational crisis has not emerged.