Joseph Sala
Partner
Joe joined Joele Frank in 2010 and has established himself as a trusted strategic counselor, having advised hundreds of clients across industries on shareholder activism, M&A and crises.
With a focus on designing and implementing communications and media engagement strategies to support a client’s objectives, Joe helps companies look around corners and navigate high-profile situations.
Credentials
Joe received a BS in Business and Economics from Lehigh University.
Recent Highlights
Select Experience
M&A/Transactions
Joe has supported on friendly and unsolicited M&A situations totaling more than $450 billion in value. For any transaction, Joe helps prepare clients to effectively communicate the strategic rationale and financial benefits, and tailors communications to anticipate issues that may be raised by key stakeholders (e.g., shareholders, analysts, employees, customers) to ensure continued support.
Shareholder Activism Defense
He advises clients in situations where an activist agitates privately and helps develop preparedness plans around escalating scenarios, including public attack. He leverages his knowledge of the temperament, tactics and capabilities of the opposition to help clients develop winning strategies. His priority in any activist situation is to minimize business disruption and build the largest base possible of support. Activism experience includes public and private assignments against Ancora, Elliott, Engine Capital, JANA, JCP, Land & Buildings, Starboard, among others.
Crisis Communications
Joe develops crisis preparedness plans for U.S. and international companies and has provided communications guidance in connection with a variety of situations, including earnings surprises, workforce reductions, management succession and unplanned leadership changes. When a client is in the spotlight, Joe helps determine how best to control the dialogue, stabilize a difficult situation and protect and enhance corporate reputation. He guides clients through those sensitive, high-stakes moments, helping them deliver the right outcomes for their stakeholders.
Investor Relations
He is not just a special situations expert; he also works closely with senior management and independent financial and legal advisors to develop and enhance clients’ IR and PR materials to ensure they resonate with stakeholders. His roles include helping executives prepare for quarterly earnings calls by practicing responses to anticipated questions and executing corporate profile-raising strategies.
In Conversation
Personal Side
Joe is a member of the JF Gives Back Committee and an active supporter for important causes, including St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital, Food Bank of NYC, USPS Operation Santa and Tina’s Wish. He enjoys spending time with his family on Long Island and serves as an advocate for JF parents.
