Crisis management training for senior leaders and communications teams

A global health and beauty brand recognised that traditional tabletop exercises weren’t enough to prepare their leaders for a fast-moving crisis. They needed crisis management training that would challenge senior management to experience the pressure of real-time decision-making, supported by expert guidance and practical tools.

That’s where our tailored programme comes in. By combining media handling with digital crisis simulations, we create a training experience that allows executives to test their skills, strengthen coordination with communications teams, and build confidence under pressure.

How we designed the training

To meet the needs of a distributed international workforce, we deliver the programme virtually.. The training included:

• Six live online sessions, accessible worldwide.
  
• A blend of media skills practice and crisis management training, ensuring leaders could shape messaging and navigate the dynamics of fast-evolving crises.
  
• Realistic scenarios tailored to each country and region, reflecting reputational risks and local context.
  
• Practical exercises that encouraged collaboration between senior managers and communications specialists.
  

Key results

Senior leaders described the experience as both enjoyable and eye-opening:

“Thanks for the whole training which was very insightful, practical and fun!”

“I’ve had lots of media training in the past, but this is something else.”

Outcomes included:

• Senior leaders gained first-hand experience of how crises escalate across media and social channels.
  
• A consistent framework for managing issues across multiple international markets.
  
• Stronger alignment between leadership and communications teams.
  
• A scalable approach that can be repeated in other regions and business units.

Why crisis management training matters

For senior management, theory is not enough. Effective crisis management requires practice in lifelike conditions, where pressure, speed, and reputational stakes are real. Our crisis management training ensures that when a crisis breaks, leaders know what to do, how to respond, and how to support their communications teams.