Recognized for his adept versatility in communications, Jordan Bennett seamlessly bridges internal, external and digital communications. With over 13 years of experience spanning government sectors to corporate realms, he is the linchpin for driving positive cultural evolution, elevating executive voices and navigating a crisis.
Bennett is currently a director of corporate communications at American Express where he plays a key role in advancing the company’s enterprise narrative and executive thought leadership platform. Bennett also serves as communications advisor to the company’s Chief Strategy Officer.
Prior to joining Amex, Bennett was deputy director of communications for Downstate New York and education to Gov. Andrew Cuomo — acting as the governor’s chief education spokesperson for the state. He also served as a public affairs officer and spokesperson for New York University’s Steinhardt School where he spearheaded the external communications and media relations strategy for the school’s 280-plus faculty members, 17 research centers and institutes, 195-plus programs and 11 departments. Bennett has held roles on the rapid response communications team for Secretary Hillary Clinton’s campaign for president in 2016, as associate director of communications for Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser and on Capitol Hill for Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). He’s also managed the public relations strategy, digital strategy and re-branding efforts for a portfolio of clients in commercial real estate, construction and interior design at the Berman Group.
Bennett graduated from the University of Connecticut and holds a B.A. in political science.
Preferred pronouns?
He/Him
Sexual orientation?
Gay
How did you come out at work? What was most challenging about it?
I heard “coming out” reframed as “letting people in” recently and I love the shift in language — particularly because that’s what it’s felt like for me. I made a promise to myself a long time ago that I would show up as my authentic self in every space I enter professionally — and I have. Soon after I started with American Express, I joined our PRIDE+ NYC employee resource group and took on a leadership role as chair of the recruitment and development subcommittee. In addition to “letting people in” immediately, I wanted to help create space and visibility for other LGBTQIA+ colleagues to feel seen, represented and supported. I feel fortunate that this was less challenging because I work for a company that values inclusion.
How can colleagues be true allies all year round, not just in Pride Month?
Allyship is a continuous journey, not a one-time act. One way colleagues can be allies all year round is by consistently creating a safe space for their LGBTQIA+ peers to show up as their authentic selves. A safe space, in my opinion, is one where respect is normalized, the language that’s used is inclusive, heteronormative assumptions are avoided, and all experiences and perspectives are recognized, valued and appreciated.
How important is it for young LGBTQIA+ PR pros to see people like them in the senior ranks of the industry as role models to emulate? Who were your mentors?
Incredibly important. Seeing LGBTQIA+ individuals in senior positions sends a powerful message of inclusion and acceptance. It shows young LGBTQIA+ PR professionals that they belong and can thrive — demonstrating that success is achievable regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
I’ve had many mentors along the way, but what has been particularly helpful is building a network of peers that look like me. I’m Black and gay so connecting with individuals who share both identities — and understand the intersections and nuances of both — has gone a long way.