In our Meet the Team series, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on the dedicated AKCG team members serving our valued clients.
This week, meet Olivia Napoli, Associate Vice President at AKCG – Public Relations Counselors. In her role, Olivia supports the firm’s crisis communications and issues management work.
1. What led you to a career in reputation and crisis communications management?
I’ve always been drawn to work that helps people navigate challenging situations. During my years in emergency management, I saw firsthand how much thoughtful communication can influence outcomes during crises. That experience sparked an interest in reputation and crisis communications, where I can combine strategic thinking, problem-solving, and relationship building to help clients prepare for and respond to complex issues.
2. Your background is in emergency management. How does your background come in handy when approaching your current client work?
Emergency management teaches you to stay calm when the stakes are high, quickly make sense of complex situations, and focus on what matters most. Those skills translate naturally to crisis communications, where every decision and every message can make a difference. I also bring a planning mindset to my work: I enjoy helping clients think through potential challenges before they happen so they’re better prepared when the unexpected occurs.
3. What motivated you to join the AKCG Team?
I was excited by the opportunity to bring my experience into a communications role while continuing to help organizations navigate difficult moments. From my first conversations with the team, it was clear that AKCG values collaboration, thoughtful strategy, and genuine partnerships with clients. It felt like a place where I could continue learning while making a meaningful impact alongside talented colleagues.
4. How do you stay informed of the industries that AKCG supports?
I’m naturally curious, so I spend a lot of time reading industry news, following emerging trends, and keeping an eye on issues that could affect our clients. I also enjoy learning directly from our clients and teammates. Everyone brings a different perspective and expertise that helps me better understand the industries we support. The more context I have, the better I can anticipate challenges and help clients navigate them.
5. And just for fun: What’s your favorite way to spend a long weekend?
If I’m not traveling with my family or on a side quest exploring the Mid-Atlantic, you’ll probably find me in the kitchen tackling a big cooking project. I especially love cooking Italian and Jewish cuisine, everything from homemade pasta to challah. It’s so rewarding to bring people together around a meal, and I love carrying on traditions while trying new techniques and recipes!
Thanks Liv, for allowing us to get to know you better!
