Director, Public Affairs, Crisis & Issues Management

ADP is seeking a strategic and execution-oriented Director of Public Affairs with deep expertise in crisis communications and issues management. This role will partner closely with the Senior Director, Public Affairs, to help lead and operate a global crisis and issues function, ensuring strong coordination, consistency, and high-impact execution. 

This individual will play a critical role as a strategic advisor and hands-on execution partner, driving day-to-day management of crisis and issues response, strengthening global processes, and helping to proactively protect and enhance the ADP brand. 

Key Responsibilities 

Crisis Communications & Issues Management Strategy and Execution 

• Lead the planning and execution of global crisis communications and issues management strategies 

• Serve as a key strategic partner to senior communications leadership and crisis & issues team members, providing recommendations and ensuring effective implementation of response plans 

• Manage end-to-end response efforts, ensuring timely, coordinated, and consistent messaging across channels and stakeholders 

• Maintain and continuously improve crisis readiness through issues management initiatives including playbooks, simulations, and training programs 

Global Collaboration & Coordination 

• Support a global crisis and issues management team, driving strong execution and alignment across regions 

• Ensure clear processes, governance, and operational excellence in how crisis and issues are managed globally 

• Partner cross-functionally with Communications, Legal, HR, Government Affairs, and business stakeholders to ensure integrated response 

Proactive Issues Management 

• Identify, assess, and help prioritize emerging risks and opportunities that could impact ADP’s reputation 

• Partner with internal stakeholders to develop and execute proactive reputation strategies 

• Support message development and narrative shaping to strengthen and protect the ADP brand 

Measurement & Business Impact 

• Build and implement measurement frameworks that demonstrate the effectiveness of crisis and issues efforts 

• Translate outcomes into clear insights that show tangible business value and risk mitigation 

• Track performance and continuously refine strategies based on data and learnings 

Monitoring & Insights 

• Oversee issues monitoring and media/social listening to identify potential risks early 

• Synthesize insights into clear, actionable recommendations for communications planning and response 

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Qualifications 

• 7–10 years of experience in corporate affairs, crisis communications or public affairs with strong focus on crisis communications and issues management 

• Proven experience leading and executing crisis response efforts in complex, fast-paced environments 

• Experience supporting or working across global teams and regional markets 

• Strong ability to translate strategy into practical execution and operational plans 

• Experience partnering with senior communications leaders and cross-functional stakeholders 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

• Highly collaborative with strong project management and organizational skills 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in a global, matrixed, or highly regulated organization 

• Familiarity with issues tracking, risk assessment, and monitoring tools 

• Blend of agency and in-house communications experience