Why leaders call when stakes are high

For nearly two decades, I’ve helped leaders and organizations communicate under pressure. In government, higher education, health care, and the private sector, I’ve been called in to steady teams, sharpen messages, and rebuild trust.

I started as a journalist, asking tough questions. From there, I stepped into senior roles in state government and higher education, leading communications, policy, and strategy through times of change, growth, and crisis.

Over time, one pattern stood out: whenever brands were fragmented, reputations were strained, or policy was shifting, my phone rang. That trust — built over years of relationships and results — is what led me to launch Olivia Hwang Strategies.

A photo of Olivia Hwang with shoulder-length light brown hair, blue eyes, and fair skin, wearing a navy blue button-up shirt, standing in a well-lit indoor space with large windows in the background.

Experience that delivers

I’ve worked side by side with executives, boards, and policymakers to:

Shape public perception of ongoing economic and environmental harm to the Gulf Coast, supporting Louisiana’s $8B+ settlement with BP following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Lead a university through its first unified brand strategy, aligning hundreds of stakeholders and delivering on strategic priorities.

Direct a statewide health campaign that helped more than 60,000 residents access affordable coverage.

Steady senior leaders through high-profile crises, stabilizing media narratives within days and protecting credibility with key stakeholders.

What I believe

Clarity beats spin. Trust is built when leaders tell the truth plainly.

Moments define reputations. The way an organization communicates during a crisis or transformation will shape how it’s perceived for years to come.

Steadiness matters. Leaders don’t just need the right message; they need someone beside them who can keep perspective when the pressure is highest.

Camera filming a woman sitting in a room with bookshelves in the background.

How I work

I start by listening — to your challenges, your goals, and your team.

I work in partnership — your success is my priority.

I don’t do cookie-cutter. Every engagement is tailored to your context and stakes.

And I stay close — even after projects end, I’m a call away to pressure test ideas or help you plan the next chapter.

Organizations I’ve supported

  • University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  • Wisconsin Department of Administration

  • Together Wisconsin

  • Josh Kaul for Wisconsin Attorney General

  • Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance

  • Minority Leader’s Office - Wisconsin Legislature

  • Choices Coordinated Care Solutions

  • Louisiana Department of Health

  • Gingras, Thomson & Wachs

  • Badger State Strategies

Let’s talk.