Skip to main content
Communications Strategy

FDNY

Keeping New Yorkers aware of emergencies 24/7.

Oversaw the communication strategies for a high-stakes, 24/7 agency responsible for the safety of nine million people in New York City. The FDNY, with its 17,000 employees and a $2 billion-dollar annual budget, required a seasoned communications executive capable of handling strategic and crisis communications on a scale that few organizations ever face.

During my tenure, I faced several major incidents that required immediate and effective crisis communication. These incidents included a helicopter crash on a Manhattan building, a major data breach potentially affecting thousands of patients, and the lengthening response times of the FDNY to structural fires. Each of these challenges demanded a rapid, professional, and reassuring response to maintain public trust and ensure accurate information was disseminated.

  • Effective crisis communication during high-profile incidents, instilling public confidence in the FDNY’s ability to respond to emergencies.
  • A robust social media presence that expanded the FDNY’s reach and engagement with the community.
  • Well-prepared senior leadership capable of confidently representing the FDNY in interviews and press conferences.
  • Strong relationships with government agencies and non-profits, facilitating collaboration and advocacy for the FDNY’s mission.
  • Positive community engagement efforts that fostered goodwill and enhanced public perception.
  • Seamless execution of major events, reflecting the FDNY’s professionalism and commitment to its members and the public.
  • High-quality content production that informed and engaged a diverse audience.
  • Effective web management, ensuring that the FDNY’s digital presence was informative and accessible.

Helicopter Crash

In June 2019, a helicopter crashed on the roof of a building in Manhattan, posing a significant challenge for the FDNY. We needed to provide immediate, clear, and accurate information to the public, media, and stakeholders while managing the crisis effectively. Furthermore, I was tasked with briefing Mayor Bill de Blasio, Governor Andrew Cuomo, and the Fire Commissioner on remarks to ensure a cohesive and informed response.

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Immediate engagement

First Word

Collaboration

Executive Communications

Data Breach Communication Response

In 2019, FDNY faced a data breach that potentially compromised the information of thousands of EMS patients. Leading FDNY communications, I had to address this sensitive issue, ensuring transparency, compliance with regulations, and a reassuring response to affected individuals and the public.

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Solutions

Transparency

Response Strategy

Government Compliance

1,300,000

Followers

130,000,000+

Reach

Social Media

Grew the FDNY's social media presence flourished, growing to over 1.3 million followers with an annual reach of 130 million+. This achievement demonstrated my ability to leverage digital platforms for effective communication.

  • Social Media Expansion: Oversaw the expansion of FDNY’s presence on major social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. This allowed the department to reach a broader and more diverse audience.
  • Content Strategy: Developed a robust content strategy that included a mix of educational content, safety tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and uplifting stories of FDNY personnel. This strategy aimed to inform and engage the public while humanizing the department.
  • Engagement and Interaction: Encouraged active engagement with the audience through interactive posts, live streams, and responses to questions and comments. This fostered a sense of community and transparency.
  • Crisis Communication: In times of crisis or major incidents, I used social media to provide real-time updates, safety information, and reassurance to the public. This approach enhanced the FDNY’s credibility and reliability as a source of information.