About Sean in "Real life"
Sean Somers is an award-winning communicator, strategist, writer, spokesperson and people leader with more than 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors.
Sean has led numerous high-profile communications initiatives and is comfortable operating in politically sensitive, high-stakes environments. He has extensive experience across all facets of corporate communications, including media relations, crisis and issues management, public relations and strategic planning.
He currently leads a cross-functional team of 30 communications professionals in The City of Calgary’s Community Services Department - one of the organization’s busiest, most complex and public-facing areas. In this role, Sean directs communications initiatives that enhance, promote and protect the department’s reputation. He works closely with The City’s Executive Leadership Team, providing strategic communications counsel and leadership across a range of critical issues.
As a key member of The City’s Corporate Crisis Communications Team, Sean has advised several of Calgary’s Mayors, Members of Council and senior executives. He has led the crisis communications function during many major emergencies, including the 2013 floods in Calgary, the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2023 Yellowknife wildfire evacuations, Calgary’s catastrophic feedermain break in 2024, and most recently, the Jasper wildfires.
Known for his calm presence under pressure, Sean is recognized as a trusted and credible media spokesperson. With thousands of interviews to his credit, he has appeared on all major Canadian networks and newspapers as well as the BBC in the United Kingdom. He's also been quoted in national and international outlets including The Globe and Mail, National Post and The Washington Post.