I’ve been pretty lucky in my career.
​
For more than 20 years I’ve had the great privilege of serving so many important associations, not-for-profits and governments, working on active, meaningful, life-changing public relations and governance files.
​
It has been my passion. It still is.
And in doing that service, I’ve adopted one very specific philosophy:
​
It’s probably fine.
​
And when it’s not, I can help.
​
I'm committed to working hard to help make it fine, make it better. Amazing, in fact.
​
I do that by holding values like
honesty, integrity and fairness close.
​
I like to laugh, I love to swear,
I know what it takes to get it done.
​
Which is why I started Cuss & Company.
A boutique public relations and strategy practice ready to help you be
​
fine,
better,
amazing.
​
We look forward to working with you.
​
Career Highlights
​
-
The Ontario Retirement Communities Association: Key architect in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic
-
The Ontario Medical Association: Key public affairs leadership role in physician/government negotiations and public policy issues including second-hand smoke and smog
-
The Ontario Dental Association: Key leader in the regional fight for water fluoridation and oral health as part of overall health
-
Trillium Gift of Life Network: Lead communications strategist for the world’s first donation after cardiac death and organ donation in Ontario
-
Lifeboat Communications: Lead media and government relations trainer for medical students across North America
-
All roles: Lead, counsel and spokesperson to and for cabinet ministers, company presidents, CEOs and boards of directors.
Education and Life Highlights
​
-
University of Toronto, Rotman School of Management, Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), Training for Not-for-Profit Governance Essentials
-
Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Fellowship, Applied Risk Communication for the 21st Century
-
Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE), Association Leadership, Change and Structure
-
Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center, Memorable Customer Service
-
Harvard Kennedy School, Applying Behavioural Insights to the Design of Public Policy
-
SickKids Hospital, proud parent ambassador and member of NeuroOutcomes Family Advisory Committee
-
Wellspring Cancer Support Canada, member, communications committee
-
University of Guelph-Humber, part-time academic professor
​
​
How We Can Help
Helping to lead teams at the centre of the action, during life-changing moments, has been my passion. It still is.
Let us help you through yours. Here’s what we do:
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Can’t seem to get your point across? We can help with communications, government and stakeholder strategy; media training and relations; and speech writing.
INTERIM CONTRACTS & PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Need to fill a gap quickly? Got a stalled project? We can help with your strategies, planning and execution.
Want to avoid a crisis? In one and don't know what to do? We can build your proactive strategy and help answer the tough questions when you need us.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Testimonials
Kari’s unique background in media, government and stakeholder relations, coupled with her vast experience working directly as strategic counsel to leadership and boards, make her a tremendous asset to any team or project. —Cathy Hecimovich, CEO, the Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA)
Kari’s ability to deliver against difficult goals is well documented and worthy of high praise. She is both an excellent leader and team player. —Ron Sapsford, retired CEO, Ontario Medical Association (OMA)
Kari is a strong, thoughtful leader who is able to effectively motivate others to achieve desired results. She is always a pleasure to work with. —Nancy Webb, Senior Vice President Public Affairs and Marketing, Sienna Senior Living