Available to book
Enhance your team's media strategy and crisis communication skills with James "Jay" Carney, speaker, former White House Press Secretary and corporate communications expert.
James Carney, known as Jay, brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors, making him a compelling speaker on media relations and crisis communication. With a career that spans journalism, government, and corporate leadership, Jay offers unique insights into the intricate workings of the White House and the challenges of global corporate communications. Jay's journey began in Washington, D.C., where he was born on 22 May 1965. He pursued his academic interests at Yale University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Russian and East European Studies in 1987. This foundation led him to a career in journalism, where he served as a correspondent for Time magazine. During his tenure, he covered significant political events, including the collapse of the Soviet Union, providing him with a deep understanding of international affairs and media dynamics. In 2011, Jay took on the role of White House Press Secretary under President Barack Obama, a position he held until 2014. This role placed him at the forefront of national and international media, where he navigated complex communications challenges and honed his skills in crisis management. His experience in this high-pressure environment equipped him with invaluable insights into the intersection of media and politics. Following his service in the White House, Jay transitioned to the corporate world, where he continued to excel. He served as Senior Vice President of Global Corporate Affairs at Amazon, and later as the Global Head of Policy and Communications at Airbnb. In these roles, he managed communications strategies on a global scale, further solidifying his expertise in corporate affairs. Jay Carney's diverse background and extensive experience make him a sought-after speaker for those interested in understanding the nuances of media relations, crisis communication, and the interplay between government and corporate sectors.
Topics, sessions and talks
Jay Carney was at the center of every major issue or event facing the country and the Obama Administration since taking office in 2009. Today he shares with audiences his insight into the issues, policies and players on a multitude of subjects including the situation in the Middle East, healthcare and immigration reform, the economy and what it is like dealing with the White House Press Corps on a daily basis.
Join Jay Carney, with his rich background from the White House to TIME magazine, as he shares insights on global events, leadership, and bipartisan perspectives. Drawing from his extensive experience, Carney offers a comprehensive analysis of pressing issues such as healthcare and the economy, enriched by his journalistic and governmental tenure.
often considered together
Doris Kearns Goodwin
Team Building
Politics
Government
frequently asked questions
Something we've not covered here?
Email jay.carney@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Jay's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
Jay Carney draws on his experience as White House Press Secretary and senior corporate communications roles to walk audiences through the mechanics of media relations and crisis communication, using real-world cases from the Obama administration and his tenures at Amazon and Airbnb to illustrate how institutions manage high-stakes messaging.
Jay Carney speaks on Middle East affairs, healthcare and immigration reform, the economy, White House media relations, global corporate communications, and leadership under uncertainty. He served as White House Press Secretary under President Barack Obama from 2011 to 2014, subsequently holding senior communications roles at Amazon and Airbnb.
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