Zak Gilbert

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT ZAK GILBERT

Communications leader specializing in enterprise messaging, executive advisory and organizational transformation in complex, highly regulated environments. Across leadership roles with the National Football League and as chief communications executive for the Cleveland Browns and Oakland Raiders, I have operated at the intersection of strategy, risk and execution—helping organizations communicate clearly and decisively during periods of change, uncertainty and high visibility. I bring deep experience advising senior executives, shaping enterprise narratives and delivering communications in fast-moving environments where priorities evolve and information is often incomplete. My work has included developing executive messaging for Commissioner Roger Goodell, leading communications through organizational transitions and sensitive issues, and aligning stakeholders across large, matrixed organizations. While much of my career has been externally visible, success has always depended on strong internal alignment—ensuring leaders are equipped to communicate with clarity, employees understand direction and priorities, and messaging reflects both business objectives and organizational realities. I have built and led communications functions, established policy and governance frameworks, and driven consistency across teams operating under pressure. I am particularly focused on employee communications as a strategic function—one that creates clarity in complexity, builds trust during change, and connects people to the direction and success of the business. I thrive in environments that demand sound judgment, speed and adaptability, and I bring a practical, execution-oriented approach to translating evolving strategy into meaningful, actionable communication.