In an age of instant information and radical transparency, the CEO’s voice is the most valuable asset a company has. Effective media relations and strategic stakeholder engagement are no longer a function of public relations; they are fundamental drivers of business success and corporate reputation. This comprehensive training course is designed to empower executives to master the art of communication, transforming them from corporate figureheads into influential leaders who can confidently shape their organization’s narrative, build lasting trust, and navigate the complexities of the modern public sphere.

This intensive five-day program offers a practical, hands-on blueprint for becoming a highly effective and credible public communicator. Participants will gain critical skills in message development, crisis management, and leveraging digital platforms to build a powerful personal brand. The curriculum is built on real-world case studies and interactive simulations, ensuring that you develop a resilient communication strategy that strengthens key relationships, manages risk, and ultimately drives value for the business. By the end of this course, you will be prepared to lead with a voice that is both authoritative and authentic.

Duration: 5 days

Target Audience:

• Chief Executive Officers (CEOs)
• C-suite executives and senior leaders
• Presidents and Managing Directors
• Aspiring leaders and future CEOs
• Chief Communications Officers (CCOs)
• Board members and chairpersons
• Heads of Public Affairs and Government Relations
• Senior corporate spokespeople
• Investor relations professionals
• Family office leaders

Objectives:

• Develop a compelling and authentic executive voice
• Master the principles of proactive media relations
• Build and maintain a strong personal brand
• Navigate the complexities of stakeholder mapping and engagement
• Craft and deliver impactful messages to diverse audiences
• Effectively manage and mitigate communication risks during a crisis
• Leverage digital and social media for strategic influence
• Build strong relationships with key reporters and influencers
• Measure the impact of communication efforts on business goals

Course Modules:

Module 1: The CEO as a Communicator

• The shifting role of the CEO in the public eye
• The power of authenticity and trust
• Defining your personal brand and communication style
• Developing your core narrative and key messages
• Building a foundation for a public-facing role

Module 2: Strategic Media Relations

• Understanding the modern media landscape
• Building and nurturing relationships with journalists
• Crafting compelling press releases and pitches
• Preparing for proactive media engagements
• The ethics of media relations

Module 3: Mastering Public Speaking and Interviews

• Techniques for delivering powerful speeches and presentations
• Preparing for and excelling in media interviews
• Handling tough questions and staying on message
• The role of body language and vocal delivery
• Practicing with mock interviews and feedback

Module 4: Digital and Social Media Presence

• Building a strategic social media presence
• Engaging with audiences on platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter)
• Managing digital reputation and online crises
• Creating compelling content for digital channels
• Best practices for social media governance

Module 5: Proactive Stakeholder Mapping

• Identifying and prioritizing key stakeholders
• Understanding the motivations and interests of each group
• Developing tailored engagement strategies
• Building trust with investors, employees, and community leaders
• Managing conflicting stakeholder interests

Module 6: Crisis Communication and Reputation Management

• The anatomy of a modern crisis
• Developing a robust crisis communication plan
• The CEO’s role in leading during a crisis
• Communicating with transparency and empathy
• Post-crisis recovery and reputation rebuilding

Module 7: Influencing Policy and Public Opinion

• The intersection of business and public policy
• Engaging with government officials and regulators
• The role of the CEO in public debates
• Advocating for your industry and company values
• Building coalitions and partnerships

Module 8: The Art of Internal Communication

• The importance of internal communication for culture and alignment
• Techniques for effective communication with employees
• Leading town halls and all-hands meetings
• Fostering a culture of open dialogue and feedback
• Communicating change and vision to internal teams

Module 9: Measuring Impact and Building a Legacy

• Defining success metrics for communication efforts
• Using data analytics to refine your strategy
• The long-term value of a strong reputation
• Integrating communications into strategic planning
• Building a lasting legacy as a public leader

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.