ACC Georgia Webinar "Crisis Communications for In-House Counsel: Responding to Breaches, Misconduct, and Reputation Threats"

In today’s environment, corporate crises are increasingly public, high-stakes, and fast-moving. From data breaches to leadership misconduct, in-house counsel must play a leading role in crisis preparedness and response. This includes managing legal risks while also protecting the company’s reputation and brand equity.

This one-hour CLE webinar, designed for in-house counsel across industries, offers practical guidance on managing two common but complex crisis scenarios. Legal, communications, and HR experts will share real-world insights and strategic frameworks for leading through disruption.

Part One of the program focuses on how to respond to cybersecurity breaches. Topics include how to work effectively with both internal and external communications teams. Attendees will learn how to:

• Engage internal communications early to maintain consistency and control.
• Coordinate with external PR firms that are funded through cyber insurance policies.
• Deliver timely, legally sound messaging to stakeholders, regulators, and the public.
• Protect the company’s reputation while meeting legal and regulatory obligations.

Part Two of the program will focus on leadership misconduct. A recent case study will be discussed involving the CEO and Head of HR at Astronomer, whose undisclosed romantic relationship became public. This segment will feature a crisis communications expert and an employment law attorney. Topics will include:

• Legal and reputational risks associated with executive misconduct.
• Developing internal and external messaging that aligns with company values and legal standards.
• HR policies, workplace culture implications, and leadership accountability.
• Managing board communications and expectations during sensitive situations.
• Long-term strategies for rebuilding trust and protecting the corporate brand.

Part Three of program will take the lessons of both cyber incidents and apply those to domestic and global risk management in today’s globalized and polarized political environment.

• Risk management and corporate governance strategies and communications in the shifting tides.
• When changed domestic ESG and DEI pressures and regulations conflict with global requirements and customer markets.
• Managing and protecting reputations in times of uncertainty.
• Relying on the “Prepare Respond Recover” model.