Managing a Crisis 

 

Businesses and organizations involved in a public relations/communications crisis face very difficult choices.  The questions become how to counter bad press without appearing defensive, or worse, guilty; how to disclose information without creating legal risk; and how to withhold information without prolonging a “bad story,” or  creating additional legal risk. 

 

Mr. Cooper has provided public relations/communications advice and media training to executives and board members of large corporations, mid-sized businesses, and not for profit organizations. 

 

For example, a large private equity fund made a sizable investment in what appeared to be a growing company.   Shortly after making the investment, a whistleblower alleged the company manipulated its   “financials” providing a distorted picture of future growth.  The value of the company plummeted.  Some investors in the fund  claimed the fund failed to properly examine the company’s financial reports. ...and threatened litigation.  

 

The press quickly picked up the story....and it wasn't a flattering story.

 

The fund had a legal obligation to inform all  investors about the possibility of litigation brought on behalf of some  investors.  The question became how to quell investor anger and fear without creating additional legal and financial risk.  Mr. Cooper worked with the firm’s legal team to help craft statements to the press and letters to investors.  After a flurry of bad stories, the press  lost interest and most investors remained with the fund. 

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