Narratives, Reputation, and Risk: Strategic Communication in Practice

About this course

Every message sends a signal — whether you intend it to or not. The key is making sure your communication builds trust, advances your goals, and resonates with the right audience. In a time defined by rapid communication and information flow, organizations face the challenge of cutting through noise, navigating reputational risk, and connecting authentically with global audiences. From social movements to supply chain disruptions, the pressure to communicate clearly, consistently, and with purpose has never been greater. 

This course explores how leading Danish brands and organizations craft and manage strategic communications in a rapidly evolving environment. We examine how narratives are built, how reputation is managed in times of crisis, and how communication strategies must adapt to cultural, political, and technological shifts. Through a blend of theory, case studies, guest lectures, and a hands-on strategic project, students will analyze and design communications that are both effective and ethically grounded.  The course also offers students the opportunity to meet communications professionals across industries and explore how strategic messaging is applied in practice — from public institutions to private-sector brands.

Note: If you are enrolled in Strategic Communication, you may not also take Narratives, Reputation, and Risk.

Faculty

Nichole Allem

Faculty

Executive Education (Business Leadership, Harvard Business School, 2022). M.S. (Public Relations, Syracuse University, 2010). M.A. (International Relations, Syracuse University, 2010). B.A. (Strategic Communications, Elon University, 2008).Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Department of State (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), 2010-2024. Customer Communication Manager, A.P. Møller – Mærsk, 2024-present.With DIS since 2025.

Louise Blaabjerg Christoffersen

Faculty

MSc Political Communication and Management, Copenhagen Business School, 2015. B.A. International Business Communication, Aarhus University. Communications Lead, Local Outreach at Innargi 2023-2025, External Lecturer, Dep. of Business Humanities and Law, Copenhagen Business School 2018-2023, Director, Public Sector and Campaigns, Senior Communications Advisor with Radius CPH 2017-2023, Analyst and Project Manager, Danish Think tank Mandag Morgen, 2014-2017. With DIS since 2025.