Christine Elswick

With nearly two decades of cybersecurity communications experience, I’ve mastered what it takes to help brands lead through disruption—and now I’m bringing those insights to our full portfolio of clients as Managing Director of Industries at Highwire. In a world defined by AI, media disruption, and rising risk, staying ahead requires more than quick reactions. It demands anticipating what’s next, communicating with unwavering confidence, and building trust at every touchpoint. My approach centers on transforming complexity into clarity—whether guiding clients through a breach, launching bold new categories, or positioning executives as industry voices. By applying the proven methodologies honed by the #HWCyberSquad—agility, precision, and deep subject matter expertise—I help all of Highwire’s practice groups deliver strategic communications that break through, build credibility, and drive measurable business impact.

One persistent misconception about cybersecurity communications is that it’s simply about explaining technology. It’s about managing trust—especially during high-stakes moments like breaches or sensitive disclosures. What you say, how you say it, and when you say it can fundamentally shape brand reputation, customer confidence, and leadership credibility. At Highwire, we guide clients through these critical moments with clear, confident messaging, strategic stakeholder alignment, and expert spokesperson preparation—ensuring that when it matters most, your brand emerges as a trusted voice. We help cybersecurity leaders expand their influence by crafting strategic messaging, securing high-impact media and speaking opportunities, and positioning them as authoritative voices on the issues that define their industry. From executive visibility to thought leadership, we ensure the right people hear—and remember—your story.

I have a strong background in developing high-performing teams with extensive cybersecurity expertise—an industry that requires quick thinking, deep analysis, and collaboration with exceptionally talented individuals. In a dynamic environment that changes daily, I lead by example: nurturing curiosity, posing challenging questions, and continually pursuing fresh insights and connections. This approach ensures our teams remain sharp and our clients stay ahead, as clarity, agility, and trust are essential in rapidly evolving sectors.

Strategic communications in tech—especially in the age of AI—is about transforming complexity into opportunity and helping innovation earn the trust it deserves. AI is reshaping how we live, work, and make decisions, but with that transformation comes uncertainty. Strategic communications bridges the gap between technical potential and public understanding. It’s not just about explaining how AI works—it’s about demonstrating why it matters, who it serves, and how it’s being developed responsibly. When executed with precision, strategic communications accelerates adoption, builds credibility, and transforms bold ideas into trusted market leadership. In a world shaped by rapid change, it amplifies the right voices and ensures the most meaningful innovation leads the way.

Highwire’s culture is deeply personal to me—it’s not just about how we work, but how we grow, support, and show up for each other. Our values—Team Empowerment, Growth Mindset, Inclusion Always, and Fierce Distinction—aren’t just words on a wall. They shape how I lead and how we lead together. I believe in giving people the clarity and trust they need to thrive. That means creating space for others to step into leadership, make bold decisions, and bring new ideas forward. It also means knowing when to step back and cheer them on. What I love most about Highwire is the way we push each other to be better—always with care, never ego. We assume positive intent. We rally for one another in the hard moments and celebrate each other’s wins like they’re our own. That kind of culture doesn’t just happen. It takes intention, consistency, and a shared belief that when one of us grows, we all do. And that’s what keeps me inspired every day.