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Handling a high-risk celebrity supporter exit

I was brought in to support a household name national charity through the exit of a high-profile celebrity supporter at a point where there was significant reputational risk across both external and internal audiences.

The challenge was to handle a situation that was inherently sensitive, balancing the relationship with the celebrity alongside the organisation’s wider positioning - while also avoiding journalist speculation, internal disruption or loss of confidence among key stakeholders.

I carried out a full reputational risk assessment, mapping likely scenarios across media, internal communications and stakeholders, and used this to shape a clear approach to messaging and sequencing.

I formed and ran a crisis management team, working closely with senior leadership and the Board to shape decisions on messaging, timing and positioning so that the organisation was prepared as as the situation unfolded. A key part of the work was managing the relationship itself, making sure the exit was handled in a way that protected all parties without losing control of the narrative.

At points, this involved slowing decision-making down or challenging initial thinking where there was a risk of confusion or unintended consequences - and ensuring communications remained deliberate rather than reactive.

This led to a clear and controlled exit plan to minimise risk in a volatile situation, with a clear structure in place to manage risk, to keep the organisation stable and protect its reputation.