Board of Directors
John Walls is a highly accomplished senior communications executive with a distinguished career in corporate and brand public relations. Based in Dallas, TX, John has excelled in the public and private sectors, driving strategic communications plans that directly support business objectives. With expertise in various areas such as communications strategy, brand management, crisis communications, and thought leadership strategy, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Currently, John serves as Principal and Chief Communications Strategist at JWPR, LLC (www.jwpr.co), where he provides strategic communications counsel to corporate, start-up, and non-profit clients across industries such as retail, technology, travel and hospitality, and ophthalmic optics and visual health. He immerses himself in clients’ businesses to provide tailored communications solutions and collaborates effectively with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to execute comprehensive strategies. His expertise lies in leadership profile development, strategic media relations, and communications and content strategy.
Before his current role, John was Senior Director of Corporate Communications & Content Strategy at Neiman Marcus Group. In this role, he oversaw integrated corporate, crisis, brand, and internal communications, strengthening corporate and brand equity for the organization and its luxury retail brands. He successfully positioned Neiman Marcus Group as an innovative and digital organization, promoting key initiatives and managing milestone events. John also provided ongoing media training to executives, conducted ongoing risk assessments for the organization, and directed corporate thought leadership efforts.
Before joining Neiman Marcus Group, John was Hilton’s Director of Brand Public Relations, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands. In this role, he led all media relations efforts for Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio, driving global luxury traveler preference and consideration. He oversaw brand experience programs and successfully launched Canopy by Hilton, positioning Hilton as a transformative organization in the lifestyle hotel segment. John also played a key role in the launch of LXR Hotels & Resorts and managed multi-million-dollar budgets supporting the brands.
John’s professional journey also includes significant contributions at Hampton by Hilton, Cohn & Wolfe, Match.com, Golin Inc., and Paige Hendricks Public Relations Inc. He holds a Master of Professional Studies in Corporate Communications and Public Relations from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Advertising from Texas Christian University.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, John Walls is deeply committed to volunteerism and community engagement. He has dedicated his time and expertise to various organizations, including and outside of the LGBTQIA+ community, making a positive impact on important causes. As an Advocate at Dallas CASA for two years, he worked tirelessly to support and advocate for children in the foster care system, working directly on cases and ensuring that the children’s voices and needs were heard and met. John also served as a Board Member at Fashion Group International, Inc., for a two-year term, where he contributed his strategic insights and industry knowledge to promote the growth and development of the fashion industry. At Team DC, a charitable organization established to educate the LGBTQ+ community on the benefits of individual and team sports participation, he sat on the Board and held the role of Development Chair for a two-year term. Additionally, John was an active member of the Event Planning Committee at Black Tie Dinner, Inc., contributing to the organization’s efforts to raise funds and awareness for human rights causes. His volunteerism highlights his dedication to making a difference in the community and supporting organizations that strive for positive change.
John has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, including three coveted NMG Best Awards, Georgetown University’s “Hoya Professional 30” recognition, and the Hilton Circle of Excellence Corporate PR Director of the Year accolade. With his extensive expertise in communications strategy, team development, and professional storytelling, John continues to significantly impact the field of communications, driving successful initiatives that support business growth and enhance brand reputation.
