The document discusses the CEO's role as the chief communications officer of an organization. It states that the CEO is primarily responsible for communicating key operational and administrative matters to internal and external stakeholders. As the chief communications officer, the CEO must represent the organization accurately and in a timely manner to build trust. Embracing technology allows the CEO to consistently communicate messages to multiple locations and staff. Acting as the chief spokesperson demonstrates strong, responsible leadership.

1. By Julia Dumanian
The CEO as an Organization’s
Chief Communications Officer

2. • Much confusion exists regarding who, how and when communication
should be disseminated from an organization
• On all matters of Governance, the Board Chair should always be the
exclusive spokesperson
• On key matters pertaining to the operations and administration of an
organization, today’s CEO has a primary responsibility to perform as
the chief communications officer for the organization
• Whenever possible, whether the message content is regarding good
news or bad, Boards will expect that this not be a designated task,
but enacted by the strong CEO leader
The CEO as an Organization’s
Chief Communications Officer

3. • The CEO’s credibility can hinge on their ability/desire to
represent the organization to internal and external
stakeholders on a timely basis and with accurate information
• If in the not-for-profit or public sector, ensure that Volunteers
and Donors are captured as part of the CEO’s communication
strategy
• CEO’s should seek out coaching/training whenever possible to
strengthen their public relations and media skills…this is now
a CEO core competency

4. • Technology needs to be embraced as a delivery
mechanism for messaging
• Enables “real-time” communicating to the staff
• Allows the CEO to ensure consistency and continuity in the
message itself
• Eliminates rumours, myths and innuendoes since the
message comes directly from the CEO
• Unites an organization which may have employees in
multiple locations

5. • By putting your CEO name and face in front of the message,
you build trust amongst the stakeholders, protect the
organization and demonstrate responsible and brave
leadership

6. Today’s CEO…living leadership as
the Chief Communications Officer

7. We look forward to helping you grow your business.
Julia N. Dumanian, Leadership and Governance > 905.709.4031 info@boardroommetrics.com
Karen McElroy, CEO > 416.994.6552 > kmcelroy@boardroommetrics.com
Jim Crocker, Chairman > 416.573.9396 > jcrocker@boardroommetrics.com
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