The Scout
A Crisis Communications and Media Relations Specialist

“A good reputation takes years to build, but one false move can bring it crashing down in seconds. Sixteen years as a reporter, correspondent and editor with The Associated Press gave me great insight into just how quickly damage can be done to a corporation, group or high-profile individual. I help clients identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities, disarm them when possible, and prepare them to effectively respond to those that simply can’t be avoided.”

In 16 years as a reporter, correspondent and editor with The Associated Press, John MacDonald often found himself interviewing elected leaders, corporate executives and government officials at the most critical point in their careers. It provided a unique perspective on how the level of preparedness and understanding of the media could often make or break a career overnight.

At Gallatin, John calls on that perspective to help clients build and maintain strong public affairs strategies; from messaging and interview techniques to media relations, crisis communication and community relations.

John is a member of Gallatin’s media training team, where he has instructed clients including Chevron, Providence HealthCare and Inland Empire Paper Co. on how to build successful communications strategies and maintain positive media relationships.

John earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Montana. John is a principal in the Helena office of Gallatin Public Affairs and is a member of the Crisis Communication and Litigation Support, Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Research and Public Opinion, and Sustainable Development and Land Use practice groups.

Expertise                                             Background

Crisis communications                    16-year veteran of the
                                                               Associated Press

Communication strategies              Communications and Media
                                                               Advisor for corporations  
                                                               including Chevron and
Media relations                                   Providence Health Care  

                                                               Co-developed
Media training                                      communications and
                                                                advocacy training for
                                                                the Montana Non-Profit
Vulnerability audits                              Association

                                                                B.A., University of Montana

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