Susan Davis International

Susan Davis International is a Washington, D.C.-based public relations and communications agency with a strong focus on international public affairs. Founded in 1975 by Susan Ann Davis, the firm has built a reputation for navigating complex stakeholder environments, particularly at the intersection of government, military, and nonprofit sectors. The agency operates as a woman-owned small business and leverages a global partner network through IPREX, which extends its reach to over 100 markets worldwide. This combination of local Washington expertise and international capability makes Susan Davis International a distinctive player in the strategic communications field.

Services and Specialties

Susan Davis International offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to clients who need to manage high-stakes communications across multiple audiences. The agency's core capabilities include stakeholder communications, crisis management, and strategic positioning and branding. A particular area of expertise is cyber risk communications, reflecting the growing need for organizations to address cybersecurity threats in a clear and credible way. The firm also handles special events, trade shows, and conferences, providing end-to-end event production for both virtual and in-person gatherings. Additionally, Susan Davis International is known for its work in travel and tourism, as well as community relations and outreach, often helping clients build trust with local and global stakeholders.

• Stakeholder communications and engagement
• Cyber risk communications
• Crisis management and issues response
• Strategic positioning and branding
• Public affairs and government relations
• Event production and management (trade shows, conferences, special events)
• Military and veterans communication
• Nonprofit and advocacy campaign strategy
• Social marketing and new media
• International public affairs and global partner network coordination

Clients and Industries Served

The agency primarily serves U.S. government agencies, multinational corporations, associations, and nonprofit organizations. Its client roster often includes entities involved in healthcare, military and veterans issues, and community outreach. Susan Davis International has particular depth in military marketing solutions and veterans communication, helping clients connect with active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. The firm also works extensively with associations and advocacy groups, providing campaign strategy and media relations support. For corporations, the agency offers b2b communications and consulting services, often focusing on reputation management and stakeholder trust. The global partner network through IPREX allows the agency to handle international campaigns without opening offices in every market, making it a practical choice for clients with cross-border needs.

Approach and Methodology

Susan Davis International takes a relationship-driven approach to communications. The firm emphasizes stakeholder mapping and engagement, ensuring that messages reach the right people through the right channels. Crisis management is handled with a focus on transparency and speed, helping clients maintain credibility during difficult situations. The agency also invests in new media and social marketing, adapting traditional public relations tactics for digital platforms. Leadership, including founder Susan Ann Davis and Executive Vice President Judy Whittlesey, brings decades of experience in strategic planning and media relations. This hands-on approach means clients often work directly with senior team members, which is a common preference for government and nonprofit clients who value direct access and accountability.

Location and Credentials

Based in Washington, D.C., at 1000 F St NW, Susan Davis International is situated in the heart of the United States' political and policy-making hub. This location is strategic for clients who need to engage with federal agencies, Congress, and international organizations. The agency's status as a woman-owned small business also qualifies it for certain government contracting preferences, which can be an advantage for public sector clients. With over 40 years of experience and recognition as one of the top public affairs agencies in the U.S., Susan Davis International brings a long track record of handling sensitive and high-profile communications. The firm is a good fit for organizations that require sophisticated stakeholder engagement, crisis preparedness, or international reach, particularly in the government, military, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. Clients who value a boutique agency with senior-level attention and a global network will find Susan Davis International well-suited to their needs.