Peter Wilkinson began work in communications as a journalist, and after 30+ years, in 2002, he transitioned to PR and communications. Over the last 23+ years he’s become one of Australia’s most experienced Crisis and Issues Management practitioners.
Peter is Chair, Wilkinson Butler; MD, Wilkinson Group; past-Chair, Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom; past-Chair, Global Communications Alliance; GAICD, Member, Reputation Advisors International.
Wilkinson Butler
Wilkinson Butler specialises in three pillars: Crisis and Reputation Management; Sustainability and Energy Transitions; Digital.
The excellent Wilkinson Butler team is built on the behaviours of creativity, nimbleness, strong and honest relationships, and constant learning. The company’s ethics are guided by its Code of Conduct – http://www.wilkinsonbutler.com
Crisis PR
Peter has successfully navigated crises including:
- Cyber-security attacks
- Sexual abuse/harassment
- Countering damaging industry or activist campaigns.
- Media attacks
- Company restructures
- Product recalls
- Court cases
- Judicial inquiries
- Pollution spills
- Extortion
- Blackmail
As an expert in communication strategy, Peter also advises boards on matters of governance, executives on restructures, and has been instrumental in assisting organisations rebuild after a crisis.
Reputation Management
Peter is direct and outcomes focused. His long-term retainer clients include NFPs and for-profits. He is supported by the experienced staff at Wilkinson Butler. His work includes internal and external comms.
Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom
Peter was chair of the AJF for eight years. He believes a fair and accurate media is essential for a healthy democracy. The AJF also works towards a freer press and journalists’ safety in Australia and APAC – https://www.journalistsfreedom.com/.
Global Communications Alliance
Peter is part-president of the GCA, an organisation of independent corporate affairs and public affairs agencies, connecting us to the world.
Reputation Advisors International
Peter is a member of this crisis-specific group, ensuring our work is best-practice.
Background
Peter stared out in journalism in the early 70’s on the ABC’s 7:30 (earlier versions) and Four Corners. He then transitioned to Channel Nine’s 60 Minutes and ACA.
In 2002 Peter co-founded Wilkinson Group with Claire Wilkinson, having forseen the disruption by the Internet on television. Peter and Claire, later, sold much of the business to employees who set up Wilkinson Butler. Peter joined as Chair in 2013.