Jackie Hyland, an Emmy-winning news anchor turned global communications leader, has always been influenced by giving others a voice. Her journey began in the fast-paced world of breaking news, anchoring in Dallas, New York, and Raleigh. Now, she shapes narratives in one of the world’s most influential firms. Behind her professional poise lies a story of reinvention and mastery, illustrating that great communicators don’t just report history. They help shape it. 

Hyland started her career in television journalism in New York City, working in one of her first TV jobs at WPIX during a defining era for the city. She covered major breaking news that tested her resolve and reporting skills: 9/11, a deadly plane crash in the Rockaway, Queens neighborhood that occurred shortly after takeoff, and the anthrax scares that gripped the region. In the aftermath of 9/11, when the city was still reeling from tragedy, the anthrax attacks deepened the sense of fear and uncertainty. Hyland reported on the panic as an unseen threat moved through mail systems and public spaces, capturing the anxiety of a traumatized city facing a new kind of danger. Beyond breaking news, she also reported on red carpet events and created a feature reporting series called Friday Night Feasts, which earned her first Emmy Award. Her second Emmy came as a morning anchor in Dallas, Texas. One story stands out for its impact: during a brutally cold winter in Brooklyn, residents of a housing development were left without heat. Hyland went directly to their homes and witnessed the dangers firsthand—families keeping their ovens on for warmth to survive. Her urgent coverage brought critical attention to the crisis, prompting government officials to act and restore heat to the buildings. It was an early and powerful example of her belief in journalism as a force for change. Transitioning from journalism to corporate communications required adaptability, strategic thinking, and resilience—core qualities of leadership. Today, as a Global Communications Leader at KPMG, she applies these same instincts to corporate storytelling, elevating executive voices and positioning key leaders during times of scrutiny. Her instinct is to make leaders’ voices part of meaningful conversations. 

Hyland emphasizes that communications go beyond just crafting messages; it’s about turning strategy into tangible actions and helping leaders grasp the implications for reputation and stakeholders. At KPMG, she has helped elevate executives into key roles in the public eye, notably positioning the company’s Sustainability Leader as the third-ranked spokesperson in the U.S. during times of intense scrutiny. She attributes this success to always asking how to integrate a leader’s voice meaningfully into conversations. This focus on visibility and strategy carries over to Next Level You, the NYWICI webinar series Jackie hosts. The series has evolved into more than just a professional discussion forum; it’s a lively environment where women can explore leadership, reinvent their careers, and build resilience in rapidly changing industries. For Jackie, it reflects her personal journey: creating a platform that amplifies women’s voices, fosters the sharing of insights, and mutual inspiration. Next Level You blends theory with practical tools and perspectives, helping women advance their careers and influence the future of communications. 

Her leadership philosophy centers on preparation and agility. Years in broadcast news taught her to adapt quickly under pressure and handle the unexpected. These skills now serve her in the corporate world, where communication is crucial for guiding decisions on complex, often technical issues. This discipline requires the same rigor, foresight, and resilience expected of any executive. 

A common thread in Hyland’s career is her desire to learn and connect. As an unpaid intern at ABC’s Good Morning America, she boldly reached out to Diane Sawyer, one of journalism’s most respected voices, seeking advice. While the specific details of their conversation have faded, what remained vivid was the feeling it left her with not discouragement or intimidation, but warmth and generosity. A top leader had taken time to share insights with a young intern, and that gesture fundamentally shaped how Hyland views leadership. It strengthened her conviction that reaching out to those ahead of you matters, that asking how you can help opens doors, and that thinking ahead to offer support to others creates a culture of mentorship. For women in communications especially, Hyland’s experience underscores an essential lesson: courage in connection, the power of asking, and the importance of learning from those who’ve walked the path before you and then paying it forward. 

For Hyland, leadership extends beyond words and actions; it’s about how people feel. This belief shapes her work across various platforms, including her efforts to create spaces where voices are amplified, connections deepen, and stories are shaped for positive change. After years of telling impactful stories, Jackie now helps others tell theirs—her most lasting impact.