In today’s digitally empowered world, reputation can change in an instant. Dissenters and adversaries are smart and well organized, regulators are more involved, and there are no “fire walls” between internal and external audiences. Companies need skilled communications and public affairs professionals who anticipate challenges and employ smart, strategic plans to advance the mission of the organization. They must bring a 360-degree perspective, guiding the strategic narratives that align the business, improving engagement, protecting corporate reputation, and advancing the company’s agenda in the marketplace. These leaders must display core technical skills, possess business acumen, and be creative problem solvers. And they must have the tolerance, energy, patience, and diplomacy to be a steadying hand through disruptive change.