Kate Gardiner

Socially-conscious crisis communications

Kate Gardiner is the founder and CEO of Grey Horse, a feminist communications agency based in New York City. Established to elevate the voices of women and queer individuals in positions of power, Grey Horse offers a range of services including public relations, audience engagement, crisis communications, and digital strategy.1 3

Background and Career

Gardiner began her career in journalism, where she gained significant experience in crisis management and social media engagement. She has been involved in high-profile campaigns, notably covering events like the BP Oil Spill and the Arab Spring.2 3 Her work has earned her multiple accolades, including being named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 list in 2016 and receiving Emmy nominations for her contributions to media.1 3

Philosophy and Approach

At Grey Horse, Gardiner emphasizes building strong relationships within the industry, rejecting the aggressive tactics often associated with public relations firms. The agency operates on an 80/20 principle, dedicating 20% of its resources to pro bono work for clients with critical missions, particularly in areas like reproductive justice.3 4

Education

Gardiner holds a Bachelor’s degree in American Studies from Brandeis University and a Master’s degree in Journalism from Northwestern University's Medill School. She also completed a certificate in Media Management at Northwestern.1

Notable Clients and Projects

Her clientele includes prestigious organizations such as MIT Technology Review, PBS NewsHour, and Al Jazeera English. Gardiner has notably supported numerous women during the #MeToo movement and has worked with various healthcare systems and law firms.1 3

Speaking Engagements

Gardiner is also an active speaker at industry seminars and conferences, discussing topics related to crisis communications, digital strategies, and women's empowerment in media.1 2

Through her leadership at Grey Horse, Kate Gardiner continues to influence the communications landscape by advocating for underrepresented voices and fostering a collaborative environment within the industry.