Real professionals care about the public perception of their field. Every major professional gathering in the sciences has a session focused solely on discussion of their jargon and how to communicate effectively with the public.
Why don’t economists care about the public perception of their field?
It would be flabbergasting to think they don’t care, until you realize they are a priesthood, not a profession. They serve the narrow interests of a small group. That group is well-served by denigrating working people.
While there are scientific approaches to the study of economics, the version of economics that makes it into the news is decidedly unscientific.
This is a major life lesson many never learn.
Suck up to the CEO for appearances sake, but be genuinely kind and grateful to the admins. It’s amazing how good relationships with the people who do the actual work make things easier.