Cristal N. Downing is Executive Vice President and Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer for Merck, responsible for the development, execution and advancement of Merck’s communications, public affairs and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategies. She shapes and amplifies messaging that raises awareness and fosters a deep understanding of the company’s scientific contributions to global health. She also maintains tight alignment between business and Corporate Affairs priorities to help ensure value creation and delivery to stakeholders around the world.
Prior to joining Merck, Downing was Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs for Medical Devices and Global Finance Communications for Johnson & Johnson. She also served in leadership positions within American Express, JP Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo.
In July of this year, Savoy magazine named Downing one of the Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America.
Downing is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Ronald McDonald House of Central & Northern New Jersey and is affiliated with several key communications associations.
Downing holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Monmouth University.
