Rubenstein Communications Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1954 by Howard J. Rubenstein, Rubenstein Communications is a strategic communications and reputation management firm headquartered in New York City. The company is dedicated to assisting clients in navigating complex media landscapes, solving problems, seizing opportunities, and managing public moments with integrity. With over 70 years of experience, Rubenstein Communications has established itself as a trusted partner for more than 400 clients across various industries, including business, media, entertainment, technology, real estate, sports, healthcare, education, culture, crisis management, and philanthropy.

Key Strategic Focus

Rubenstein Communications operates as a collection of boutique practices with expertise across 13 industries. The firm's strategic focus includes:

Strategic Counsel: Guiding clients through significant moments to build and protect reputations with authenticity and integrity.

Crisis Planning and Management: Identifying reputational threats and developing strategies to mitigate potential crises.

Media Relations: Maintaining daily contact with media professionals to proactively and reactively manage client narratives.

Digital and Content Strategy: Building clients' digital presence and distributing content strategically across various platforms.

Online Reputation Management: Optimizing platforms and content to control online messaging and improve search results.

Messaging and Brand Positioning: Developing consistent messaging to advance clients' value propositions.

Media Training: Equipping clients with skills to effectively communicate in various settings.

Event Publicity: Managing publicity for events to maximize coverage and convey clients' missions.

Executive Branding & Thought Leadership: Helping leaders hone messages and amplify voices to stand out in a crowded landscape.

These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of clients across sectors such as arts and culture, civic and nonprofit, corporate and financial services, education, energy and infrastructure, entertainment, health and science, legal, media, real estate, sports, and technology.

Financials and Funding

As of June 2025, Rubenstein Communications has an estimated annual revenue of $75 million, with approximately 201 employees. The firm has grown its employee count by 5% over the past year. Specific details regarding funding history and notable investors are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Rubenstein Communications integrates various technologies to enhance its service offerings, including:

Canva: For audio, video, and graphic content creation.

Google Font API: To ensure consistent typography across digital platforms.

Cision: For marketing performance measurement and media monitoring.

These tools support the firm's commitment to delivering innovative and effective communication strategies.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Rubenstein Communications comprises experienced professionals dedicated to driving the firm's success:

Steven Rubenstein, President: Oversees day-to-day operations, driving innovation and growth across 14 practices. A trusted counselor to CEOs and organizations, Steven has been with the firm since 1992.

Christine Velasco Falvo, Chief Operating Officer: Manages the firm's operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all departments.

Alan Tessler, Chief Financial Officer: Oversees the financial strategy and health of the organization.

Jessie Lyons, Chief of Staff, Director of Communications Office of the President: Coordinates internal and external communications, supporting the President's initiatives.

Iva Benson, Managing Director: Leads client engagements and strategic initiatives within the firm.

Kristen Bothwell, Executive Vice President: Drives key client relationships and oversees major projects.

Peter Foley, Managing Director: Focuses on client strategy and business development.

Chris Giglio, Managing Director: Specializes in media relations and crisis management.

Suzi Halpin, Managing Director: Leads initiatives in corporate communications and public affairs.

Talia Inbar, Executive Vice President: Oversees client services and strategic planning.

Amy Jacobs, Managing Director: Manages client accounts and develops communication strategies.

Annette Juriaco, Managing Director: Focuses on client relations and service delivery.

Gary Lewi, Managing Director: Specializes in public affairs and media strategy.

Alexandra M. Merceron, Executive Vice President: Leads digital strategy and content development.

Alice McGillion, Managing Director: Oversees media relations and client communications.

Steve Murray, Managing Director: Focuses on strategic communications and client engagement.

Wiley Norvell, Executive Vice President: Leads public affairs and policy communications.

Kathy O’Brien, Managing Director: Specializes in corporate communications and branding.

Bud Perrone, Managing Director: Manages client accounts and media relations.

Peter Pochna, Managing Director: Focuses on business development and client strategy.

Stefan Prelog, Executive Vice President: Oversees content strategy and development.

Mittie Rooney, Executive Vice President: Leads client services and strategic initiatives.

Carolyn Sargent, Executive Vice President: Manages media relations and client communications.

Kyle Sklerov, Executive Vice President: Focuses on crisis management and strategic communications.

Christina Stokes, Senior Vice President: Oversees talent development and internal communications.

Charles Zehren, Managing Director: Specializes in media strategy and client relations.

This team brings a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring the firm's continued success in the dynamic field of strategic communications.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The public relations and communications industry is highly competitive, with numerous firms offering a range of services to diverse clients. The market is characterized by the need for innovative strategies, strong media relationships, and the ability to manage reputations effectively across various platforms.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the industry include:

Edelman: A global communications firm offering services in public relations, marketing, and digital strategy.

Weber Shandwick: Provides strategic communications and consulting services across various industries.

Finn Partners: Specializes in public relations, digital marketing, and creative services.

Zeno Group: Focuses on integrated communications, including public relations and digital marketing.

Golin: Offers public relations and digital communications services with a focus on data-driven strategies.

These firms, like Rubenstein Communications, aim to provide comprehensive communication solutions to clients, leveraging their expertise and industry relationships.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Rubenstein Communications has a history of strategic acquisitions and partnerships, such as acquiring assets from Northwestern Mutual Group and partnering with Matrix Essentials. These collaborations indicate the firm's commitment to expanding its capabilities and forming alliances with complementary businesses to enhance service offerings.

Operational Insights

Rubenstein Communications distinguishes itself through a combination of boutique-level expertise and the resources of a large firm. The firm's approach includes: