Case study: KPMG Cayman Islands press release

KPMG has issued a press release which makes an interested case study in effective crisis communications. The release reads as follows:

“The Partners of KPMG in the Cayman Islands are pleased to report all KPMG employees have been accounted for and are safe following Hurricane Ivan. KPMG's Cayman Islands office opened for business on Monday, September 20 after Hurricane Ivan passed Grand Cayman as a Category 5 storm. The storm sustained winds of over 150 mph, with gusts reaching 200 mph. Infrastructure in Grand Cayman suffered substantial damage, but the KPMG office has relocated in accordance with disaster recovery plans. Recovery efforts on the Island are progressing at a rapid pace and we continue to assist the London office of the Cayman Islands Government.

“KPMG back-up and evacuation systems operated effectively. Although they were stretched by the severity of the storm, our systems and files remain secure. The KPMG building withstood the storm and provided shelter for many staff, families and clients.

“Many employees have been safely relocated in Toronto or London and are contacting clients to ensure that deadlines and needs are being met. In addition to the teams in Toronto and London, KPMG's local resources and personnel are resuming operations in Grand Cayman. As well as making progress at the local office, KPMG is playing an integral part in improving conditions for its staff and the local community on the island.

“Finally, the Partners would like to express our sincere gratitude to our staff for their continuing support and dedication in this challenging time.
KPMG is the global network of professional services firms that aim to turn knowledge into value for the benefit of their clients, people and the capital markets. With nearly 100,000 people worldwide, KPMG member firms provide audit, tax, and advisory services from more than 715 cities in 148 countries.”

•Date: 23rd September 2004 • Region: Various •Type: Article •Topic: Crisis comms
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