Michael Johnston

Michael is a strategic public relations and public affairs professional who has developed and led the implementation of communications plans to raise organizations’ visibility, secure and demonstrate support among key stakeholders and elected officials, and achieve priority goals.  Michael serves as liaison between Co-Communications’ clients and the media. He is responsible for driving strategy, managing accounts, writing press releases and collateral materials, coordinating special events, and maintaining strong relationships with leading journalists and news outlets. He has extensive experience representing some of New York City’s most visible and outspoken industry advocates, economic development entities, real estate companies, small businesses, nonprofits and healthcare heroes, particularly during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Michael’s passion for great cuisines and tenacity for scoring public relations wins was magnified by his award-winning work supporting the NYC Hospitality Alliance, successfully telling the story of thousands of severely impacted restaurants, bars, nightclubs and hotels, and securing influential media placements in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CNN, Washington Post, NBC Nightly News, The Economist, Bloomberg, Politico and Crain’s New York Business, among others. Michael arrived at Co-Communications after nearly 10 years of working at nationally recognized firms in New York City and Washington, D.C. He holds a graduate degree in political management from The George Washington University.