Most organisations will face a crisis at some point. The question isn't whether it will happen, but whether you're prepared when it does.

In this episode, crisis management expert and SKMG co-founder Neil Shoebridge shares lessons from decades advising organisations through cyber-attacks, operational failures, reputational challenges and workforce restructures.

Neil explains what separates organisations that emerge stronger from those that struggle to recover. He highlights the importance of building reputational capital before a crisis occurs, responding quickly when issues arise, and communicating effectively under pressure.

For directors, the conversation offers practical guidance on the board's role before, during and after a crisis, from testing organisational preparedness and overseeing response plans to supporting management and protecting stakeholder trust when it matters most.

We cover:

• (03:00) Why preparation matters more than crisis response

• (10:00) What boards should and shouldn't do when a crisis hits

• (12:30) The critical role of CEOs, chairs and directors during high-pressure events

• (16:00) How organisations can protect trust and reputation in an era of misinformation

• (17:30) Why workforce restructures and layoffs can quickly become reputational crises

Learn more:

• AICD resource on creating a crisis management plan - https://www.aicd.com.au/company-policies/crisis-management.html

• AICD resource on Governing Through a Cyber Crisis - https://www.aicd.com.au/risk-management/framework/cyber-security/governing-through-a-cyber-crisis-cyber-incident-response-and-recovery-for-australian-directors.html

Connect:

• Neil Shoebridge on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-shoebridge-5518334/

• AICD on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/school/australianinstituteofcompanydirectors/

• Kulja Coulston on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kulja-coulston/

• Bennett Mason on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennett-mason-10517336/

This episode Director Download was produced on the traditional lands of the Gadigal peoples. We recognise First Nations peoples' cultural and spiritual relationships to the Skies, Land, Waters, and Seas, and their rich contribution to society.