Your Partner in Crisis Communication and Media Excellence

Providing authentic, transparent, and strategic communications for businesses, charities, and public sectors.

"I had the enormous pleasure of working with Dee for 3 years when she was my head communications within the Policing and Crime team. Dee is a consummate professional who ensured I was always prepared and abreast of issues locally and nationally that affected West Yorkshire."

Alison Lowe Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in West Yorkshire

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"Her professional focus and in-depth knowledge, together with her ability to perform promptly in difficult, high profile, and sometimes contentious circumstances, was exceptional."

Fraser Sampson Chief Executive of the Office and Police and Crime Commissioner for West Yorkshire

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"Honest, transparent with integrity and determination, Dee is a force to be reckoned with and the perfect person to come to with regards a crisis situation or political media relations advice. She understands the complexities and nuances that drive the news agenda and what the public need to hear."

Mark Burns-Williamson Police and Crime Commissioner for West Yorkshire (2012-2021)

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"Dee has extensive experience in handling multiple issues simultaneously, often under significant time pressures. She is politically astute and able to quickly identify the heart of an issue and develop pragmatic solutions."

Nigel Swift Former Head of Corporate Communications, West Yorkshire Police

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"She is one of the most passionate, enthusiastic and dedicated individuals I know. She has so many balls to juggle and hats to wear but she somehow manages it all seamlessly. In a work capacity she is extremely professional, pays attention to detail and smashes deadlines."

Becky Jenner President of Rett Syndrome Europe and former Chief Executive of Rett UK

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"Dee is an overall brilliant person to work with. She is clearly passionate about what she does, was highly responsive, and very approachable. She pairs a positive, can-do attitude, with a realistic understanding of possible outcomes, and tailored her support to meet evolving needs."

Deputy Chief Executive of an award-winning charity

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"Her high professional standards were enhanced by her frank and engaging personality, her drive and determination and her strong personal integrity."

Chris Bright Former editor of Jersey Evening Post

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Communications Specialist with 18+ Years of Experience

A communications specialist and media advisor with nearly two decades of experience in high risk political environments.

Nineteen years as a crisis communicator within the political field of policing and crime, and before that, an investigative journalist, means I am well placed to support with significant issues.

My background includes setting up the press function for the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner and working with the Mayor of West Yorkshire.

Responsible for all the communications from a political perspective around international stories including the murder of an MP in West Yorkshire, a teacher killed in her classroom, a police officer shot as they carried out inquiries, and many other high profile stories affecting communities.

I now want use my experience, knowledge and skills to help organisations, big and small, facing issues that may develop into a crisis.

Whether that is crisis communication support for a pending issue, or one that has broken, or press advice for high profile stories, or reputation and risk management.

My experience means I am well placed to help you with your crisis communication plans, whether the crisis has happened or you want to mitigate one unfolding.

Comprehensive communication solutions for organisations & charities of all sizes

In addition to our core services, we offer customised solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you need specialised crisis management, bespoke media training, or a targeted communication strategy, our expertise is at your disposal. Contact us today to discuss how we can create a tailored communication plan that meets your needs.

Authentic

Transparent

Honest

Extensive Experience in Crisis Communication and Press Advisory

In the past, my roles have included supporting communications for the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, universities, charities, commissioned services, politicians, and key decision-makers.

May 2024 - present

Director

Dee Cowburn Communications

In May 2024, I launched Dee Cowburn Communications to support organisations including public sector and private and charities with their communication needs.

April 2023 - May 2024

Communications Manager (Policing & Crime)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority

I managed Policing and Crime Communications for the Mayoral Combined Authority, working to highlight the efforts of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of West Yorkshire in community safety and policing.

May 2021 - July 2023

Head of Communications (Policing & Crime)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Established a communications and press function for the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, where none existed before. Building key relationships with journalists, working on partnership campaigns aimed at changing behaviours or raising awareness on safety issues.

Dec 2013 - May 2021

Head of Communications

Office of Police and Crime Commissioner West Yorkshire

Acting as the Police and Crime Commissioner’s strategic press advisor on significant policing and crime issues across West Yorkshire.

Testimonials

Read what my past employers and colleagues have to say about my communication strategies and crisis management skills.