About Joe Buccino

About Joe Buccino

Two Decades of Experience at the Highest Levels

Joe Buccino

Across national security, defense innovation, aerospace, and financial services, Joe has guided senior leaders through complex challenges. Today, he serves as the House Republican Comms Director.

Known for his calm, disciplined approach under pressure, Joe helps leaders recognize risks early, communicate with authenticity, and maintain trust when it matters most.

A Career Built on Results

Joe’s distinguished military career culminated in senior public affairs and communications roles, including serving as communications director for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), where he led a team responsible for external and internal communications across the Middle East and Central Asia. He previously served as press secretary to two U.S. Secretaries of Defense—James N. Mattis and Acting Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan—and as communications director for the XVIII Airborne Corps and public affairs officer for the 82nd Airborne Division.

He has also advised on high-profile initiatives, authored congressional testimony and posture statements, and earned recognition for his speechwriting, including two Vital Speeches of the Day Cicero Awards—one of the highest honors in the field.

cicero award badge
When Every Word Counts book cover

Upcoming Book

Joe is the author of the forthcoming book When Every Word Counts: How to Earn Trust, Command Attention, and Communicate Clearly in Any Situation(Sky Horse Publishing, October 2026), which explores how leaders recognize danger early and communicate effectively before crises spiral out of control.

“In moments of crisis, Joe’s leadership is unwavering. He is a strategic communicator and professional of the highest caliber. His ability to navigate complex geopolitical issues and articulate a clear, compelling narrative for the Defense Department has been a significant asset to our national security.”

Pat Shanahan, former Acting SecDef and former CEO of Spirit AeroSystems

“Joe Buccino is the total package when it comes to building out a communications strategy to last-minute crisis management media statements. If you look closely at what he has been doing for the past 20-plus years as a key military spokesperson and advisor, you have to be impressed. In the world of special operations, where time is a critical component, Joe, in my opinion, is a critical asset. Joe is informed, thoughtful, and focused. Definitely a person you can count on to tell you the truth and keep your message on point.”

Dennis Hayash, Founder, aHA Talent

“Joe Buccino is a truly exceptional leader, advocate, and strategic advisor. He possesses a remarkable ability to assess complex landscapes, identify barriers, threats, constraints, options, and opportunities to drive measurable impact through his executive decisions.”

US. Army Colonel Brian Hoffman