NEW YORK — Gearing up for the 2024 election, Peppercomm has created a new consultancy that helps companies manage fallout from societal issues.

Team Meridian takes a multi-faceted approach to helping clients manage their reputations before, during and after a crisis, which Peppercomm expects to see more of during the upcoming presidential election season.

The offering takes a holistic approach to crisis preparedness through internal and external comms, Peppercomm said.

Team Meridian’s team includes chief innovation officer Jackie Kolek, chief engagement officer Ann Barlow, head of content strategy Matt Purdue, senior VP Paul Merchan and senior media strategist Marissa Dunn, all of whom have expertise in helping clients deal with social issues, crisis and reputational management.

“We’re in the most controversial sociopolitical environment in recent history, where stakeholders are demanding more than performative corporate statements when a social crisis arises. As a result, brand leaders can essentially throw their existing crisis planning playbooks out the door,” said Peppercomm CEO and founder Steve Cody. “Our new Team Meridian crisis consultancy answers the call for timely and judicious counsel to help clients develop a holistic framework — including internal and external communications on if, when and how to speak out and act on social issues their stakeholders care about.”

 

Team Meridian builds on the firm’s RepCompass, an issues and crisis preparedness program Peppercomm launched in 2022. RepCompass allows is designed to help brands develop and execute plans to respond to social issues.