Vice President, Crisis and Critical issues
Bob is no stranger to breaking news and critical issues management. With 17 years of investigative reporting on his side, he has been exposed to crises and sensitive news of all kinds. His diverse background in media, public relations and crisis counseling have helped him develop a unique skill set ideally suited to lead the crisis and critical issues practice at Padilla Speer Beardsley.
Prior to joining Padilla, Bob was an investigative reporter for KSTP-TV news in Minneapolis. There, he was responsible for covering breaking news occurring in the last two decades including the St. Peter/Comfrey tornado and the 35W bridge collapse. An investigative report on the unattended transportation of prisoners won Bob a national Emmy award in 2010. In addition to his reporting experience, he also has worked as a private counselor and has helped lead companies through various confidential crisis situations.
Bob also directs and guides Padilla’s team of senior media relations consultants – responsible for assuring that all clients have access to strategy and execution based on insights, compelling messages and stories and proven methodologies.
Bob earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of St. Thomas and is currently a member of its Next Generation Steering Committee. He volunteers as a youth baseball coach and a youth sports board member, and has been a guest speaker for a variety of community organizations such as the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation.