AW Rostamani Group (AWR Group), a privately-owned family business conglomerate in the Middle East, has appointed Sara O?ÇÖHara as Chief Marketing and Communications Officer.With over 18 years of experience in corporate communications, O?ÇÖHara brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Prior to joining AWR Group, she served as SVP ?Çô Group Communications at Al Ghurair, where she oversaw a wide range of communications functions across seven major industry sectors.O?ÇÖHara has a proven track record of building strong and enduring brands. She has worked with various regional and global companies, including Barclays Bank, Lloyds Banking Group, and AXA, to develop effective communication strategies that address their unique challenges and opportunities.As Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at AWR Group, O?ÇÖHara will play a crucial role in shaping the brand?ÇÖs future. She is committed to leveraging her experience to develop initiatives that will ensure the brand?ÇÖs continued success and growth.Commenting on her appointment, O?ÇÖHara said: ?Ç£I am delighted to have joined AWR Group and look forward to contributing to its success. I am confident that my experience in building purposeful and lasting brands will be valuable in this role.?Ç¥O?ÇÖHara added: ?Ç£The UAE?ÇÖs marketing landscape is evolving rapidly, and I believe AWR Group is well-positioned to be a leader in this new era. I am excited to play a part in shaping the brand?ÇÖs future and ensuring its continued success for generations to come.?Ç¥

Global sportswear giant adidas has appointed Sarah Skaf as PR and Newsroom Manager for the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region.Skaf brings a wealth of experience in public relations and communications to her new role at adidas. Prior to joining the company, she served as a Communications Manager at Havas Red Middle East. Her career in PR began at Weber Shandwick.In her new position, Skaf will be responsible for leading adidas' communications efforts in the MENA region. She will oversee the brand's media relations, ensuring that adidas maintains a strong and positive reputation in the market.With her expertise in the field of communications, Skaf is well-equipped to help adidas continue its growth and success in the region.

FleishmanHillard Korea, a leading global communications consulting firm, has signed a partnership with 1MILLION, a global lifestyle dance company, to collaborate on 1MILLION?ÇÖs brand licensing and intellectual property (IP) initiatives.1MILLION operates the largest dance YouTube channel in Korea, boasting over 26 million subscribers, and is beloved by dancers and K-pop fans worldwide. Its significant influence over Gen Z and millennials has led many global brands to seek out creative collaborations with 1MILLION over the years.Combined with FleishmanHillard Korea?ÇÖs strategic expertise and business network, this partnership aims to bolster 1MILLION?ÇÖs global expansion as FleishmanHillard seeks out innovative business opportunities for its network clients and partners leveraging 1MILLION?ÇÖs brand and artist IP.Minja Kim, co-CEO of 1MILLION, said: ?Ç£FleishmanHillard is an ideal partner with a deep understanding of our brand vision, values and artists, which helps us preserve our unique identity. Their expertise and strategic approach were key factors in forming this partnership.?Ç¥James Choi, Senior Vice President and Partner of FleishmanHillard Korea, added: ?Ç£1MILLION embodies a compelling brand philosophy centered on spreading positive energy through dance. We are excited to support the global dissemination of their ?ÇÿINSPIRE MILLIONS?ÇÖ mission to reach an even wider audience through this collaboration.?Ç¥FleishmanHillard currently provides brand and communication consulting services for 1MILLION and has successfully completed ?Ç£Next Concept?Ç¥ artist branding project for its artists, including Lia Kim, Amy, Dohee, Debby, Redy and Harimu.(Image: From left to right, Yeowook Yoon and Minja Kim, co-CEOs of 1MILLION, and James Choi, Senior Vice President and Partner of FleishmanHillard Korea)

A recent global study by WE Communications, encompassing 540 physicians (57% specialists, 43% general practitioners) across six countries, reveals that corporate reputation plays a pivotal role in prescribing behaviour. This research builds on previous findings and underscores the importance of a company's overall reputation and expertise in specific disease areas.The survey was conducted in partnership with Sapio Research across Australia, China, Germany, India, the UK, and the US. Reputation's Influence on Prescribing DecisionsAccording to the survey, 81% of physicians consider corporate reputation to have at least a moderate impact on their perception of a medicine's value, particularly when comparing treatments with similar safety, efficacy, and pricing.Three Levels of ReputationBiopharma companies must cultivate their reputation at three distinct levels:  Corporate Reputation: This encompasses the overall image of the company, including its reliability and credibility.  Disease-Specific Reputation: Expertise and commitment in particular therapeutic areas.  Product Reputation: The standing of individual medicines within the market.Companies that invest in enhancing their reputation at these levels can craft compelling narratives about their dedication to specific therapeutic areas, which can significantly influence prescribing choices."Reputation is at times mistakenly viewed as a soft asset in the healthcare industry, yet our survey has shown that it has clear bottom-line consequences. It can make the difference between a physician writing a script for your treatment or not,?Ç¥ said Stephanie Marchesi, President, WE Global HealthDrivers of Corporate ReputationPhysicians identified several key factors that drive corporate reputation:Reliability and Credibility: 62% of physicians associate this with confidence in product quality and efficacy. Emphasizing evidence-based outcomes and transparency in clinical trials is essential.Trust: Demonstrating a long-term commitment to patient well-being fosters trust. Companies should highlight their ethical practices and patient support programs.Transparency and Communication: Transparency in clinical research and clear stakeholder communication are crucial. Younger physicians, in particular, value openness about research challenges and successes.Innovation: A significant majority (72%) believe that addressing unmet medical needs through patient-centric solutions defines innovation. Highlighting advancements in research and development is vital.Top Actions for Improving Corporate ReputationLead with Innovation: Showcase scientific advancements and patient journeys from drug discovery through to delivery, focusing on areas with high unmet needs.Treat Physicians as Partners: Be transparent about pricing and access programs, and emphasize patient benefits in communications.Capitalize on Digital Trends: Incorporate social media into your marketing and communication strategies, as it is a growing source of professional information for physicians.The Role of Digital ChannelsWith 59% of physicians using social media for professional purposes and significant usage in markets like China (57%), integrating digital trends into your communications strategy is essential.

Lipika Kapil has joined Autodesk as Lead, Brand & Communications, India & SAARC. In a Linkedin post, she wrote : "A special career update that feels like a story coming full circle. Ten years ago, during my stint with Archetype India, I had the opportunity to work with Autodesk. My first ever hashtag #B2B client that became one of the most cherished memories of my career. Little did I know then that a decade later, I would be returning to this incredible place to lead External Communications - PR & Brand Communications for India & SAARC! It?ÇÖs a humbling reminder of how life has a way of bringing us back to the places and opportunities that truly matter. Happy to reconnect with the brand Autodesk and contributing to shaping the narrative of design, innovation and technology yet again. Here?ÇÖs to new beginnings and endless possibilities ahead!."She has started her career as an Associate Image Executive - Senior Image Executive at Text100, later assuming the role of Senior Manager at Edelman. She was also associated with organisations such as Tesco Bengaluru, Koo India, Cuemath. She has around 15 years of experience in external, internal, social & strategic communications and is known and recognized for driving compelling PR narratives, executive communication, stakeholder management, and implementing goal-driven campaigns.

Erin Murphy, a communication strategist and former press secretary to Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, has been named senior director for media and public relations for Purdue University.Murphy, who stepped into the role Sept. 9, reports to Julie Rosa, vice president of communications, and will work closely with the university?ÇÖs senior officers, including the president, provost and treasurer.?Ç£Erin is a recognized leader and strategist with extensive experience in media and public relations,?Ç¥ Rosa said. ?Ç£Her background in communication and media strategy will be instrumental in advancing Purdue?ÇÖs key initiatives. I am excited to have her on our team.?Ç¥Murphy will lead the media and public relations teams responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of communication and media strategies for Purdue and its priority initiatives. Acting as the university?ÇÖs primary spokesperson, she will build and maintain relationships with media outlets and reporters to promote and protect the university?ÇÖs reputation, priorities and interests. Murphy also will provide media-related guidance and direction to all entities throughout the Purdue system.?Ç£Purdue is an innovative leader and a brand with true impact,?Ç¥ Murphy said. ?Ç£I look forward to collaborating with the talented team of communicators and marketers here to achieve great things together.?Ç¥Since 2021 Murphy served as press secretary and was a senior advisor to Holcomb, where she developed and implemented strategic communication plans and worked with statewide media to convey the governor?ÇÖs initiatives.Prior to that role, Murphy served as communications director for the Indiana Department of Child Services from 2018-21 and the city of Westfield, Indiana, from 2013-18. She was also a news anchor and reporter for WISH-TV in Indianapolis; WICD-TV in Champaign, Illinois; WTHI-TV in Terre Haute, Indiana; and a news reporter for KLKN-TV in Lincoln, Nebraska.Murphy earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Indiana University and a Master of Arts degree in public relations from Ball State University.

Mohamed Younis, former editor-in-chief at Gallup responsible for US polling, has joined Brunswick Group as a partner and global head of insight.In his new role, Younis will lead Brunswick's public opinion, market research, and analytics functions.Before becoming Gallup?ÇÖs editor-in-chief in 2018, Younis served as managing editor of its news team, with his research focusing on geopolitics, US foreign policy, youth unemployment, and the relationship between Muslim communities and Western societies.Fluent in Arabic, Younis has both studied and worked in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar.Brunswick CEO Harry Timms said, "Younis will be a fantastic leader of our Insight team, which plays such an important role in providing the data and analysis that act as the foundation of our advice."

Avra Goldstone Lorrimer, a longtime senior leader at H&K, is set to leave the firm for a "new country, new company, new role."Reflecting on her journey, Lorrimer shared on LinkedIn: "H&K has taken me from Dubai to Davos to Detroit and so many extraordinary places in between, and I have been privileged to work with insightful, intelligent, and inventive colleagues and clients along the way." She continued, "Throughout my H&K era, my understanding of communications and leadership has continued to evolve and grow, and I leave this chapter with belief in the power of public relations to solve business and societal issues in meaningful ways."While she did not provide specifics on her next steps, she teased, "more to come."Lorrimer spent 11 years with H&K, holding a variety of roles, including her most recent position as executive VP and chief growth officer. Since relocating from London to New York in 2020, she has served as a WPP global client lead and head of H&K?ÇÖs New York office. Before that, she led the consumer packaged goods practice at the London office for seven years and was also the WPP PR lead on the Ford of Europe account.

Enrission India, a leading platform committed to empowering Indian startups, in collaboration with ENRISSION INDIA CAPITAL Inc. which is an India-focused VC firm based in Japan, has announced the appointment of Blue Buzz as its official PR agency in India. This collaboration aims to bolster Enrission India's communication and outreach strategy, building a robust brand presence in the rapidly evolving startup ecosystem.Harsh Deodhar, Principal at Enrission India, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "Blue Buzz comes with a nuanced marketing approach specifically tailored for startups. Their bespoke strategies are designed to address real-time brand needs, while also helping to build a strong foundation for the future."Neha K Bisht, Founder and CEO of Blue Buzz, added, "It?ÇÖs great to partner with a company that is focused on supporting Indian startups and providing them with the tools they need to grow and succeed. We are dedicated to helping Enrission India Capital establish a solid brand identity in the market, while fostering a valuable exchange for learning and development."The partnership between Enrission India and Blue Buzz is expected to drive Enrission's mission forward, positioning it as a leading name in the Indian startup ecosystem. The focus will be on strategic communication to elevate Enrission India?ÇÖs brand narrative and enhance its outreach.

Nemi Insights, a leading provider of media monitoring and measurement solutions, has announced the launch of enhanced features on its platform, designed to offer public relations professionals and brands more comprehensive insights into their media presence. As an ISO 9001:2015-certified company and one of the fastest-growing media monitoring partners globally, Nemi Insights continues to push the envelope with its latest advancements.Among the new features introduced is the Media Score, a powerful tool that offers a holistic overview of a brand?ÇÖs media presence. This feature measures factors such as the volume of media coverage, share of voice, sentiment, and relevant topics, enabling brands to track their performance over time and benchmark against competitors.Nemi Insights has also rolled out a redesigned, responsive dashboard, featuring interactive data visualizations. Users can now filter media coverage analytics by date, media type, sentiment, author, and publication for a more customized view.In a major leap forward, Nemi Insights?ÇÖ sentiment analysis is now powered by Nemi AI, which classifies media coverage as positive, neutral, or negative. This is a critical metric for brands seeking to understand how they are perceived in the public eye.Additionally, the platform offers enhanced reporter and publication analysis to track relationships with key media contacts. This allows PR teams to identify which reporters and outlets are most engaged with their brand and tailor their outreach strategies accordingly.?Ç£We are committed to continually enhancing our platform with innovative features that meet the evolving needs of communication professionals,?Ç¥ said Renuka Bhashkar, CEO of Nemi Insights. ?Ç£Our new capabilities provide an even more robust understanding of how brands are positioned in the media, allowing them to refine their PR strategies and better engage key stakeholders.?Ç¥Founded in 2016, Nemi Insights delivers data-driven media monitoring and insights to organizations worldwide. The platform tracks media coverage across print, broadcast, online, and social media in over 25 languages, serving more than 100 brands and PR agencies globally.

Chobani Australia has promoted Zoe Brindley to the position of Corporate Communications & Affairs Manager. Brindley, who joined the company in March 2022 as Corporate Communications Manager, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributions to Chobani's communications strategy.Before joining Chobani, Brindley spent two years at Munro Footwear Group, where she served as Senior Communications & Engagement Specialist. Her experience in the corporate communications field has equipped her with the necessary skills to excel in her new role.In her new capacity, Brindley will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of corporate communications and affairs for Chobani Australia. This includes managing media relations, internal communications, and public affairs initiatives. Her expertise will be instrumental in enhancing Chobani's reputation and strengthening its connection with stakeholders.

UNICEF China has appointed Bunly Meas as its new Communications Specialist. Meas, who has a decade-long tenure with UNICEF in Cambodia, brings a wealth of experience in media engagement, communications campaigns, and digital and multimedia communications.Prior to his new role in Beijing, Meas served as a Communications Specialist at UNICEF Cambodia, where he oversaw various media relations activities and communications campaigns. His extensive experience in the field spans over 15 years, having also worked for other global non-profit organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).In his new capacity at UNICEF China, Meas will be responsible for overseeing all digital and multimedia communications initiatives. This includes managing social media platforms, producing multimedia content, and coordinating media outreach efforts to promote UNICEF's work in China.As a seasoned communications professional, Meas is well-equipped to contribute to UNICEF China's mission of protecting and promoting the rights of every child in the country. His deep understanding of the region and his expertise in digital communications will be invaluable in amplifying UNICEF's message and reaching a wider audience.Source: Telum Media

The International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) has announced the appointment of Massimo Moriconi as the new global Vice President, effective 1st September 2024. Massimo, who has been serving ICCO since 2020 as Regional President for Europe, will assume this key role following an unopposed election during the summer and will succeed to the position of ICCO President in October 2025.Massimo Moriconi, General Manager and CEO of Omnicom Public Relations Group Italy, and a seasoned Communications and Public Affairs Specialist, has been an influential figure within ICCO for many years, representing the Italian PR industry on the Board of Management since 2015 and enabling meaningful collaborations among ICCO and other international Organisations such as the European Medicines Agency and the Council of Europe. Lately, Massimo has been serving as Chair of the ICCO Mis/Disinformation Working Group and contributed to the creation of the ?Ç£Media Information and Education Pledge?Ç¥ a program uniting different stakeholders of the information society to acknowledge a shared responsibility in tackling misinformation, commit to shared solutions and prevention methods.The Vice President is a full member of the ICCO Executive Committee, which is responsible for implementing the organisation?ÇÖs strategic vision and includes the current President, immediate past President, Treasurer, and Chief Executive. In this capacity, the Vice President contributes significantly to guiding ICCO?ÇÖs strategic direction and is designated to assume the role of President upon the completion of their term.Massimo Moriconi will succeed Grzegorz Szczepanski as ICCO President in October 2025, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership. In his role as Vice President, Massimo will contribute to ICCO?ÇÖs ongoing governance review, which is led by the Chief Executive and overseen by the President. His insights will be valuable as the organisation refines its strategy and adapts its structure to address emerging challenges and opportunities.In response to his appointment, Massimo Moriconi stated, ?Ç£It is an honour to step into the role of Vice President at a time when our industry is facing both unprecedented challenges and exciting opportunities. I look forward to working closely with Grzegorz and the entire ICCO team to ensure that we continue to provide value to our members and uphold the highest standards of communication practice globally.?Ç¥Andras Sztaniszlav, CEO of ICCO, remarked on the appointment: ?Ç£Massimo has been a key part of ICCO?ÇÖs leadership for several years, giving him an exceptional understanding of our organisation. As we undergo a significant governance review, his deep familiarity with ICCO and his ability to address complex issues will be essential. Massimo?ÇÖs commitment to PR excellence and his strategic insights will greatly contribute to our ongoing efforts to enhance ICCO?ÇÖs global influence and ensure a smooth transition as he steps into the role of President."

Hong Kong?ÇÖs Bakehouse by Gregoire Michaud has selected FINN Partners to provide brand strategy and communications consultancy to support the bakery's expansion in the local market.This collaboration marks the second time Bakehouse has engaged FINN Partners for branding and communications support, following their initial partnership in 2020 when the agency led an integrated public relations campaign to strengthen the brand's positioning.?Ç£We?ÇÖre thrilled to be working with Bakehouse again as they take this exciting step in their growth,?Ç¥ said Annouchka Behrmann, Managing Partner, FINN Partners Hong Kong. ?Ç£Their dedication to craftsmanship is truly inspiring, and we?ÇÖre partnering to enrich and elevate their brand as they continue to bring their beloved artisanal flavours to more communities around Hong Kong.?Ç¥Gregoire Michaud, Founder of Bakehouse by Gregoire Michaud, added: ?Ç£Expanding our business means bringing the tradition and care of Bakehouse to even more corners of Hong Kong. For us, it?ÇÖs about enriching our brand and staying true to our roots as we grow. Working with FINN Partners again ensures that our brand?ÇÖs heart and soul are reflected in every step of this journey, and we?ÇÖre excited to connect even more deeply with our local communities.?Ç¥(Image: bakehouse.hk)

COMPANION Communications has appointed Jacqueline Shutt as Senior Account Director in Hong Kong, where she will lead the agency's focus on the travel, dining, and property sectors across Asia.In her new role, Jacqueline will be responsible for overseeing COMPANION's travel and property client portfolios in Hong Kong, managing public relations, content development, media and influencer campaigns, and partnership activations. She will also lend her expertise to support the team with dining launches and large-scale projects.Jacqueline brings over 11 years of experience in communications, having worked in both London and Hong Kong with a diverse range of corporate, consumer, and health clients, including Royal Albert Hall, Canon Europe, Deloitte, and Royal Caribbean.After relocating to Hong Kong, she managed TUMI Regional's APAC account for more than six years and collaborated with F&B brands such as Shake Shack, San Pellegrino, and Movenpick, as well as on art and design projects like K11 Musea and the recent launch of Sotheby?ÇÖs Maison at Landmark Chater.Dominique Backhouse, Managing Director of COMPANION, welcomed Jacqueline, saying: ?Ç£She has a wonderful reputation in Hong Kong and Asia as a strong account lead, with deep knowledge of regional trends and an understanding of communication strategy. We look forward to seeing her grow in her new role, and to take our travel and property clients to new heights in the region.?Ç¥

A group of pro-Palestinian activists staged a demonstration outside the London office of APCO Worldwide on September 3rd, protesting the company's work on behalf of Elbit Systems, a prominent Israeli weapons manufacturer.The protesters demanded that APCO terminate its contract with Elbit, citing the company's role in supplying ammunition to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, particularly during the recent Gaza conflict. Palestine Action, a group advocating for Palestinian rights, accused APCO of "playing a central role in the genocide in Gaza" by continuing its lobbying efforts for Elbit.According to a report in Semafor Gulf, the protest has raised concerns among APCO employees in London and its Gulf offices. Staff members have expressed concerns about their safety following the demonstration and have communicated their unease to APCO management regarding the company's relationship with Elbit.In response to the protest, APCO issued a statement acknowledging the intense emotions and robust discussions that arise within the firm when complex geopolitical issues are at play. The company emphasized the importance of open and respectful internal dialogue in fostering a stronger company culture.APCO, a public relations and government affairs firm based in Washington, D.C., has been operating in the Gulf region since 2006.

We are in a new era of Public Relations. In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has undergone a sea change. More brands and clients, especially from the leadership teams, are viewing Public Relations from a close range. The industry has undergone a radical change with the advent of social media, which has to a large extent changed the approach to Public Relations. We have a relatively new and young audience that we need to face in the coming years so there are bigger challenges for brands and PR practitioners, who have to be more agile and proactive in their thinking to draw up business solutions for clients.In our exclusive weekly column ?Çô PR Conversation ?Çô Adgully interacts with leading business leaders and obtains their exclusive views and insights on the various trends in the PR and communications industry.In conversation with Adgully, Sonali Sokhal, CEO and Founder, Intelliquo, delves into the inspiration behind starting the company. She discusses how Intelliquo balances the perspectives of both ?Ç£old-school traditionalists?Ç¥ and ?Ç£digital natives?Ç¥ to create integrated communication strategies that resonate across various platforms.Sokhal also shares a success story where Intelliquo significantly impacted a client?ÇÖs brand or reputation. Additionally, she speaks about Intelliquo?ÇÖs approach to reputation management in today?ÇÖs fast-paced digital age, the key challenges the PR industry faces in attracting and retaining top talent, and more.What inspired you to start Intelliquo Integrated Communication? What gap in the market did you aim to fill with your agency?I started Intelliquo in 2012, because I had begun to feel a need to change the way PR operates overall. I felt that PR now has to move beyond the traditional media approach and devise a holistic and innovative story-telling approach. This was the reason for me to start my own agency as I felt smaller agencies are more agile.Your team includes both ?Çÿold-school traditionalists?ÇÖ and ?Çÿdigital natives?ÇÖ. How do you balance these different perspectives to create integrated communication strategies that resonate across different platforms?I think we have to start building multi-disciplinary teams that can work in tandem to create a holistic brand narrative. Old school and traditional media will always bring the maximum credibility for a brand, but today social and digital mediums, the power of community and immersive experiences are equally important and we need to be able to harness each to create a narrative for brands. In our case, we always identify the underlying objective and messaging and then break it up across different mediums.You have worked with a range of clients ?Çô from big names to small businesses. Could you share a success story where Intelliquo made a significant impact on a client?ÇÖs brand or reputation?I think we can proudly take up names like Keventers and Nykaa Beauty, where we were able to build very strong credibility for those brands. We were able to work when Keventers was just a one-outlet brand and create a strong story of their legacy to bring out the differentiation with the brand. Similarly, with Nykaa Beauty we worked on a very strong messaging to bring about the product differentiation and aspiration for clients.How does Intelliquo approach reputation management, especially in today?ÇÖs digital age where information spreads rapidly?In fact, today with consumer brands, the digital age offers tremendous opportunity. The ability for brands to enrol the right set of advocates and influencers is much easier today in the digital age than before. It is also a great ?Çÿlistening in?ÇÖ tool, which allows brands to tap into real time data and steer their narratives as per consumer and public sentiment. Brands that invest in listening in, as well as strong content and story-telling will boom in today?ÇÖs digital age.PRPOI was established as a voluntary, free platform to upskill PR professionals. How do you see the importance of such communities in shaping the future of the PR industry in India?PR is a highly skilled and technical profession, which unfortunately, cannot be taught from a book. This means that we need real time professionals and case studies that younger professionals can learn from. It is a constantly changing and dynamic environment that needs to be decoded by skilled professionals so that future PR professionals can learn and understand practical and applied campaigns. Therefore, such communities play a vital role in putting together learning efforts across the industry.What are the key challenges that the PR industry faces in attracting and retaining top talent, especially in a rapidly evolving communications landscape?I think it becomes a chicken and egg situation. Young people join the workforce without adequate training and then find the work overwhelming and leave. Then we start all over again. For this churn to stop, we need to make younger people feel empowered in their skill development process and ensure they learn things in a proper way. I also feel systems and processes are sometimes missing in agency culture, because there is so much work, hence this can also be a deterrent for talent. PR needs PR for itself with younger people.What strategies should PR firms adopt to address the talent crunch and ensure they attract individuals with the right mix of skills and experience?PR firms need to showcase best practices to attract talent. The younger generation today is concerned about the impact of their work, as much as they are on career growth. They are also concerned about picking up skillsets that would help them grow in their careers overall. Too many times, I have seen young people either become siloed into one vertical or having very shallow knowledge as they have been bounced across several verticals, both of these are deterrents for career growth. Also, it?ÇÖs important for agencies to hire people with multiple skillsets so that they can be moulded and adapted across verticals.

Darby Communications, a leading public relations and marketing agency, has partnered with The Travel Yogi, an adventure travel company that combines yoga and wellness with immersive experiences. Darby will serve as The Travel Yogi's agency of record, tasked with enhancing brand awareness and showcasing the company's unique offerings.Founded in 2010, The Travel Yogi has captivated travelers worldwide with its curated yoga retreats and adventures in 17 destinations. Darby Communications will leverage its expertise in media relations, digital marketing, and content creation to amplify The Travel Yogi's brand. The agency will focus on:  Targeted Media Relations: Securing high-profile media placements to reach key audiences, including travel journalists, influencers, and adventure enthusiasts.  Organic and Paid Pinterest Management: Creating visually appealing content on Pinterest to showcase The Travel Yogi's stunning destinations, inspiring travel ideas, and yoga practices.  Highlighting Adventure and Small Group Travel: Emphasizing the company's expertise in crafting immersive adventures for small groups, providing personalized experiences and fostering a sense of community.?Ç£Darby?ÇÖs expertise and connections in the adventure travel and outdoor lifestyle space make them an ideal partner to help us expand our reach and reinforce our position as a leader in the travel industry,?Ç¥ said The Travel Yogi founder-CEO Jennifer Hoddevik.By leveraging its expertise and industry connections, Darby Communications will help position The Travel Yogi as a leading destination for adventure-seeking travelers seeking to combine physical and mental wellness with unforgettable experiences.

Annabella, a pioneering Israeli femtech brand, has appointed Scout Lab as its Agency of Record (AOR) for communications. Scout Lab, renowned for its expertise in human and planetary health, will spearhead Annabella's communications strategy as the brand expands its product line.The partnership follows Scout Lab's successful handling of Annabella's US launch of its innovative breast pump in January 2024. The agency's efforts garnered significant media attention, securing features in prominent publications like Glamour, Axios, The Strategist, and The Cut. Additionally, Scout Lab played a key role in communicating Annabella's successful closure of its $8.5M seed funding round.Sharon Dover, Annabella's global VP of marketing, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: "From day one, we knew Scout Lab was the perfect communications partner for Annabella?ÇÖs US launch. Their deep knowledge and history of helping femtech startups grow was pivotal in the success of our launch.?Ç¥ Scout Lab will now leverage its deep understanding of the femtech industry to elevate Annabella's brand visibility and thought leadership. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both Annabella and Scout Lab as they work together to shape the future of women's health and wellness.

SOCIETY, a leading independent creative communications agency, has expanded its client roster with two significant new wins.The agency has been appointed by Optometry Australia, a not-for-profit organisation, to raise awareness of the global rise of myopia and promote community eye health in Australia. SOCIETY will deliver integrated creative and marketing communications services to achieve these goals.In addition, Rydges Hotels & Resorts, part of the EVT Group, has re-engaged SOCIETY to lead communications for the reopening of Rydges North Sydney and Rydges Port Macquarie. This follows previous successful collaborations between the agency and EVT, including work on Rydges Melbourne, The Capitol Hotel, and the Australian launch of Lylo in Brisbane.  elbourne and The Capitol Hotel, and the Australian launch of Lylo, in Brisbane.Dena Vasallo, CEO and founder, SOCIETY, said: "Optometry Australia?ÇÖs mission aligns to our value of making a positive impact on society, and we?ÇÖre proud to spotlight the amazing work provided by the health professionals that form part of the Optometry Australia network. Rydges is an iconic Australian brand that provides authentic and memorable properties and an elevated service for visitors as they live, travel, and explore Australia. We?ÇÖre thrilled to be extending our partnership with Rydges North Sydney and Rydges Port Macquarie, to further enhance their ANZ media presence."

Pradeep Kumar, former Director - Corporate Affairs & Communications at Snapdeal, has joined Adani Enterprises Ltd as the Lead for External Communications Strategy. In a Linkedin post, he wrote: ?Ç£ All set to write the next chapter of my professional journey with Adani Enterprises Limited as the Lead for External Communications Strategy. Excited to be part of an organization that has not only transitioned from a startup to a global powerhouse but has also played a pivotal role in nation-building. It exemplifies the spirit of resilience, passion, service, and growth?Çövalues that resonate deeply with me. The company?ÇÖs commitment to sustainable development, innovative solutions, and community upliftment is truly inspiring and I look forward to further amplify Adani?ÇÖs vision, drive impactful narratives, and engage with our diverse stakeholders.?Ç¥Prior to Snapdeal, he was the Group Account Director at AvianWe. Throughout his journey so far, he has been associated with organisations such as Genesis Burson Marsteller, KPMG India, Viacom 18 Media Pvt Ltd, Vuclip, Penn Schoen Berland.

Microsoft has appointed Vero to spearhead its public relations strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) in the Philippines, aiming to drive greater adoption of its AI technologies in the region.Research conducted by Microsoft reveals that 86% of Filipino knowledge workers are already utilizing AI, presenting a significant opportunity for the company to promote its own AI tools in the market. As part of this effort, Vero will focus on promoting Microsoft Copilot, highlighting its capabilities in streamlining workflows and enhancing decision-making processes.Vero will promote Microsoft's AI solutions through media roundtables, influencer partnerships, and professional workshops. Additionally, Vero will support Microsoft's public sector collaborations, establishing the company as a trusted partner and contributing to policy development for long-term economic and environmental benefits.?Ç£About 40% of our teams across Southeast Asia are already utilising Microsoft Copilot, and we have seen increased productivity and creativity. We believe Microsoft?ÇÖs technological power and influence will significantly enhance the Filipino workforce?ÇÖs capabilities, preparing them for a future shaped by digital advancements,?Ç¥ says Raphael Lachkar, COO, Vero.  This partnership builds on Vero's experience in the Filipino market, where it has previously led research on attitudes toward AI education and knowledge sharing.

The National Council Against Drug Abuse (NCADA) in Singapore is looking for reputable public relations agencies to submit proposals for a 24-month contract, with a possible one-year extension. The successful agency will provide critical communication support to NCADA in its efforts to combat drug abuse in Singapore.The ideal agency should be able to:Develop and execute comprehensive communication plans aligned with NCADA's objectives.Effectively manage crisis and issue communication.Increase awareness and understanding of drug abuse prevention and the anti-drug mission among key stakeholders.Amplify stories and evidence-based insights to garner public support and advocacy.Foster meaningful conversations on drug issues across different target audiences.Key services required include media pitching and relations, media event management, crisis communications, media partnerships, and spokesperson engagement. The agency will primarily focus on reaching parents and the youth population.Interested agencies can submit their proposals by September 16th.(Image by Natalia Ovcharenko from Pixabay)

Cactus Communications (CACTUS), a leading science communication and technology company, has announced the appointment of Akhilesh Ayer as its new Chief Executive Officer. Abhishek Goel, founder and outgoing CEO will continue to serve as a board member and transition into the role of Chief Mentor.Established in 2002, CACTUS has flourished under Abhishek Goel?ÇÖs leadership, partnering with researchers, institutions, and publishers worldwide to accelerate research publishing and impact. This leadership change aligns with CACTUS's strategic vision for its next phase of growth and innovation as the company enters its third decade.Akhilesh comes with over 25 years of leadership experience in running global businesses, managing clients and running transformation programs across a range of industry verticals, products and services. His previous experience include leadership stints at WNS, GE and Crisil amongst others. Abhishek Goel expressed his enthusiasm for the company's future under Ayer's leadership: ?Ç£I am delighted to welcome Akhilesh Ayer as the new CEO of Cactus Communications. CACTUS has significant untapped potential in multiple areas and, we believe this is an opportune time to bring on a new CEO to help realize this potential. Akhilesh is a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in leading global teams through digital transformation, driving both top and bottom-line growth. His vision for leveraging technology aligns well with our goals for innovation and expansion. Akhilesh?ÇÖs expertise will be pivotal in shaping our next chapter.?Ç¥Akhilesh Ayer joins CACTUS from WNS Global Services, where he served as Executive Vice President & Head of Data, Analytics, AI & Research (Triange) business unit. At WNS, he successfully transformed the business unit by adopting a differentiated go-to-market strategy, re-imagining the product-service mix, building a best-in-class operational ecosystem and bringing in industry-leading people practices that helped achieve stellar results. He also played a key role in the business unit?ÇÖs M&A strategy, leading successful acquisitions and integrations. Akhilesh Ayer commented on his appointment, ?Ç£I am excited to join CACTUS and for the opportunity to lead the company. I believe that the industry we operate in is on the brink of a transformative disruption. I am energized by the immense potential to drive growth and enhance the CACTUS experience for its customers while remaining true to its mission and values.?Ç¥Established in 2002, Cactus Communications specializes in AI products and solutions that improve how research gets funded, published, communicated, and discovered. Its flagship brand Editage offers a comprehensive suite of researcher solutions, including expert services and cutting-edge AI products like Mind the Graph, Paperpal, and R Discovery. CACTUS also offers medical communications under its brand Cactus Life Sciences. With offices in Princeton, London, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Tokyo, and Mumbai and a global workforce of over 3,000 experts, CACTUS is a pioneer in workplace best practices and has been consistently recognized as a great place to work.

White Rivers Media has elevated Viren Vesuwala to head strategic partnerships and alliances. In his previous position, he led PR and corporate communications. Vesuwala shared the update on LinkedIn. With more than a decade of expertise in PR, social media, and corporate communications, he has collaborated with firms such as Concept PR India, Edelman, Adfactors PR, and Entropy Digital.

Toonz Media Group, a global leader in animation and entertainment content production, has appointed Akhila Premachandran as its new Manager of Corporate Communications. Premachandran brings over 14 years of experience in journalism to her new role, where she will oversee the company's corporate communications strategy, media relations, and public affairs.Before joining Toonz Media Group, Premachandran had a long stint with Asianet. Her expertise spans across various domains, making her a versatile communicator with a deep understanding of both content creation and media dynamics. Toonz Media Group, headquartered in Thiruvananthapuram, has been at the forefront of animation and media production, catering to a global audience with its innovative storytelling and creative content. The company is known for producing popular animated series and feature films that have garnered acclaim across markets such as North America, Europe, and Asia. Akhila Premachandran?ÇÖs appointment comes at a crucial time as Toonz continues to expand its footprint in new markets and diversify its content portfolio.Toonz Media Group's CEO P Jayakumar welcomed Premachandran to the team.Premachandran?ÇÖs appointment underscores Toonz Media Group?ÇÖs commitment to reinforcing its corporate communication strategies as it continues to grow in the highly competitive global entertainment industry.

Weber Shandwick is making significant changes to its North American leadership team. Michael Wehman, previously president of New York, has been appointed president of client experience & operations. To fill Wehman's role, Jamie Dowd will take on the position of president of New York.In his new role, Wehman will spearhead growth initiatives for Weber Shandwick's extensive client base. He will also oversee integrated media and operational functions across North America, including client operations and resource management.Dowd will now lead the firm's largest office, located in New York City, which houses approximately 500 employees. In addition to his new responsibilities, he will continue to oversee the region's healthcare clients as president of health for the Americas.Jim O'Leary, who became North America CEO in 2023, stated that these leadership changes are a result of the company's significant growth over the past year. He emphasized the importance of maintaining exceptional client service and has been restructuring North America's leadership teams to achieve this goal. ?Ç£Michael and Jamie have been critical to our dramatically accelerated growth in North America. I?ÇÖm excited to see both of them continue to thrive in their elevated roles,?Ç¥ said Jim O?ÇÖLeary.

Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has joined global communications firm Edelman as vice chair of its international public affairs team. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Edelman CEO Richard Edelman.Haley is expected to join the firm this month.Nikki Haley emerged as the most significant challenger to Donald Trump's bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, bringing a strong track record and impressive credentials to the table as she launches her campaign. But she suspended her campaign earlier this year following a series of primary losses to Donald Trump. Despite her initial criticism of Trump, she ultimately endorsed him for the GOP nomination.Haley, who served as the United Nations Ambassador and Governor of South Carolina, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Edelman praised Haley's success in attracting foreign companies to South Carolina and her leadership on global issues at the UN."Politics has become a critical consideration for clients in brand marketing, employee engagement, and reputation management," Edelman said. "In her time as Governor, Haley had great success in attracting foreign companies to South Carolina and as Ambassador to the UN, helped lead important work on global issues."  Haley expressed her excitement about joining Edelman's Global Advisory (EGA) team. "In a time of growing complexities in business, policy, and politics, brands need to anticipate what's coming next," she said. "Whether managing a crisis or celebrating a success, industry leaders must be ready to communicate clearly and share their vision forward."Since leaving the presidential race, Haley has remained active on various international issues, particularly American support for Israel. In April, she joined the Hudson Institute, a conservative think tank, as the Walter P. Stern chair.(Image: Renee Ittner-McManus / Wikimedia Commons)

Leading global communications consultancy Ketchum has appointed Tamara Norman as Chief Executive Officer for the US region. A thirty-year Ketchumveteran, Norman will assume responsibility for the agency?ÇÖs strategy, innovation, client experience, growth and financial results in the region. She will blend her deep understanding of the agency with an objective, thoughtful eye toward what?ÇÖs possible in the years ahead. Norman will report to Ketchum Global President and CEO Mike Doyle.?Ç£The continual evolution of today?ÇÖs communications landscape requires a leader with deep and varied expertise, a clear-eyed vision, and a bias for action. No one fits that description better than Tamara Norman,?Ç¥ said Doyle. ?Ç£She is a powerhouse with decades of experience counseling clients in dozens of industries, advocating for and protecting the reputation of global brands and ?Çô importantly ?Çô mentoring the next generation of communications talent.?Ç¥Norman joined Ketchum in 1995 and quickly became known for her client-first approach, strategic insights, and success leading and motivating teams. She will blend her decades-long understanding of the agency with an objective, thoughtful eye toward what?ÇÖs possible in the years ahead.Throughout her career, she has led many of the agency?ÇÖs largest, most complex global client engagements and built the agency?ÇÖs strong consultancy in corporate communications. Most recently, Norman has served as Chief Corporate Affairs and Reputation Officer, overseeing Ketchum?ÇÖs capabilities in executive communications, issues and crisis, financial communications, purpose, media relations and DE&I. Since 2020, she led the creation and growth of the agency?ÇÖs award-winning employee engagement practice, helping clients navigate the ever-changing dynamics in the workplace.?Ç£This is a pivotal time for our industry, and I am excited to help shape this next chapter for Ketchum,?Ç¥ said Norman. ?Ç£My confidence in this team and the direction of our agency is rooted in thirty years working side-by-side with the best in the business to create meaningful impact for clients. Together, we will elevate our strengths, drive innovation and tackle big communications challenges, creating progress for our clients and our people.?Ç¥Established in 1923, Ketchum is one of the most creatively awarded firms in the industry.

One of India?ÇÖs fastest-growing public relations and storytelling agencies, Key Communications, has recently secured the PR mandate for the largest exhibition and conference in Asia dedicated to the education and skilling sector, Didac India 2024. Key Communications is now the official PR partner for Didac India?ÇÖs nationwide media activities as part of this mandate. Moreover, the agency spearheads industry transformation through Key Comm GREEN (Good Reputation Engineered for Economy & Nature) its initiative focused on promoting environmentally sustainable ventures and ideas. Organised by Messe Stuttgart India in partnership with India Didactics Association, Didac India 2024 is scheduled for 18 ?Çô 20 September, at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre), Delhi. Supporting the government?ÇÖs vision to make India a global Education and Skill hub, Didac India is going to showcase world-class solutions and technologies from over 35 countries, fostering India?ÇÖs education and skill ecosystem.Aditya Gupta, CEO, India Didactics Association expressing his views on the association said, ?Ç£Didac India serves as a prominent platform for educational businesses convened with education leaders, policymakers, academicians, professionals, administrators, and other key stakeholders. Recognized as the most influential trade exhibition and conference, it facilitates the exchange of the latest trends, current practices, development, and innovative ideas in the education and skills industry. We are very happy with our collaboration with Key Communications for their media knowledge and hands-on approach to execution. Their unwavering dedication and proven track record will help us strengthen Didac India?ÇÖs presence and advance our organisational goals.?Ç¥While speaking about the association, Manish Sharma, Director of Key Communications said, ?Ç£We express our heartiest gratitude to the India Didactics Association and Messe Stuttgart India for granting us this opportunity and placing their trust in our PR capabilities. We strive to make valuable contributions to Didac India?ÇÖs already established global reputation and visibility via impactful storytelling. We aspire to exceed their expectations by enhancing national and international media awareness and brand recall, contributing to their overarching business objectives.?Ç¥Headquartered in Delhi-NCR, Key Communications is committed to the art of storytelling. As a prominent PR agency in India, they excel in bringing brands, people, and movements to life through compelling narratives. 

Saumya Bhushan has taken on the role of Director - Corporate Communications for South Asia at S&P Global. She began her career at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd as Relationship Manager, later held the position of Senior Relationship Manager at Way2Wealth Brokers Pvt Ltd. She was also the President of Army wives Welfare Association and Account Director at AvianWe. She was associated with the Oberio Group, Reckitt. She is an alumnus of Osmania University.Her vast expertise and experience will prove to be invaluable addition to the growth journey of S&P Global. 

Z7 Communications, a luxury communications, digital, and events agency, has announced its appointment as the exclusive representative for Bentley Motors in the Middle East, Africa, and India.In this new role, Z7 Communications will enhance Bentley Motors' communication strategy across these regions, targeting diverse luxury audiences. By merging Bentley's legacy of luxury and performance with Z7 Communications' successful track record with premium brands, the partnership aims to set new standards in luxury automotive communications, fostering connections and driving engagement among an affluent target market.Founded by W.O. Bentley in 1919, Bentley Motors' headquarters in Crewe houses all operations, including design, R&D, engineering, Mulliner, and production of its five model lines: Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible, Flying Spur, Bentayga, and Bentayga EWB. The brand uniquely blends fine craftsmanship, handed down through generations, with cutting-edge engineering and innovative technology, exemplifying the pinnacle of UK luxury car manufacturing. "We are delighted to embark on this grand adventure with Bentley Motors, a revered name synonymous with craftsmanship, luxury, and performance," said Zeina El-Dana, Founder and CEO of Z7 Communications. "Representing such an esteemed automotive brand is both a privilege and a testament to our agency?ÇÖs commitment to excellence. For over 100 years, Bentley Motors has produced vehicles of unmatched quality and prestige, and we are thrilled to welcome the brand into our esteemed portfolio of clients."

Gurugram-headquartered public relations and communications management firm PRandit Solution Pvt. Ltd. has secured the PR and media relations mandate of 0xPPL, a pioneer next-generation social networking designed specifically for crypto natives. This mandate underscores PRandit's role in managing and amplifying 0xPPL?ÇÖs media presence as it continues to revolutionise the crypto landscape. Being the first and only PR partner of 0xPPL, in the upcoming months and years, PRandit will be responsible for driving 0xPPL?ÇÖs media outreach, public relations and strategic communications efforts. The agency will also use its extensive expertise to craft and disseminate all the key messages and information relevant to establishing and projecting the credibility of 0xPPL bridging the gap between the decentralised, blockchain-driven world (onchain) and the social connections. In addition, as a part of this mandate, PRandit will explore opportunities for 0xPPL and its spokespersons to be featured across relevant national and international media outlets, including print, electronic, online, and new-age media outlets, among others. Poorvi Sachar, (pictured), Senior Product Manager, 0xPPL, said: ?Ç£We are excited to work with PRandit as they take the lead in managing our media communications. Their experience across sectors and in Web3 space makes them an ideal partner to help us share our vision of a decentralised social network to the world.?Ç¥Shalu Jha, Co-Founder & COO, PRandit Solution, said: ?Ç£We are honoured to be chosen as a media partner for 0xPPL. This mandate aligns with our passion for promoting innovation-driven ideas and solutions. We look forward to helping 0xPPL enhance its visibility and its platform reach a broader audience.?Ç¥At 0xPPL, they are building the future of on-chain native social networking. It is a platform where tracking your peers' on-chain activities, discovering trends, and leveraging state-of-the-art data tools is not just possible but intuitive and seamless. At 0xPPL, where every aspect of the blockchain is interconnected. Their vision is to become the homepage of Web3, serving as the primary discovery hub for new on-chain applications. Soon, they will be launching an account abstraction wallet that allows you to effortlessly buy what your friends are buying, claim trending items with a single click, and more?Çöall from your mobile device. 0xPPL is driving a movement towards a more interconnected on-chain world. On the other hand, PRandit Solution is a leading Indian agency in the field of strategic communications?ÇÖ-related services. The agency boasts an extensive clientele of over 500 startups/businesses and has helped with their brand positioning, media relations, public relations, reputation management, etc. Since its inception in 2018, PRandit has worked with notable companies like, CEEW, Villgro, IIT Mandi iHub, Tezos India, Powering Livelihoods, GOGLA, GIZ Her&Now, Bartronics, MIC Electronics, Log9 Materials, STAN, Loopworm, Metastable materials etc.

Senvion India, one of the fastest-growing companies in the Indian renewable wind energy sector, has announced its strategic partnership with Pitchfork Partners, a leading PR agency renowned for its communication expertise. This partnership aims to elevate Senvion India's brand visibility, effectively communicate its commitment to renewable energy, and solidify its position as a leader in the Indian wind energy market.Senvion India has partnered with Pitchfork Partners to amplify its brand's impact and accelerate its mission towards a sustainable world. Together, they will embark on a strategic journey to enhance the company's visibility, effectively communicate its vision, and share inspiring stories of progress. Through targeted media relations, thought leadership initiatives, engaging interviews, and impactful events, Pitchfork Partners will bolster Senvion's external reach. This collaboration is poised to elevate Senvion's position as a pioneer in the renewable energy sector, inspiring and engaging audiences worldwide.Amit Kansal, CEO & MD, Senvion India, speaking about the partnership, stated, ?Ç£Our mission at Senvion is to empower the future of wind energy and we are excited to kickstart our journey with Pitchfork Partners. Through this partnership, we look forward to broadening our reach and shaping the future of the renewable energy sector. Pitchfork?ÇÖs proven track record and industry understanding approach align perfectly with our requirements as we aim to engage more effectively with our stakeholders."Sharing his views on the appointment, Jaideep Shergill, Co-founder, Pitchfork Partners, said, ?Ç£We are thrilled to be the strategic communications partner of Senvion India. Leveraging our deep-rooted expertise in renewable energy communications, we are confident in our ability to elevate Senvion India?ÇÖs brand impact and visibility and drive meaningful external conversations within the industry. As the country aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, we believe that through strategic messaging and targeted outreach, we can amplify their impact and propel them to new heights of success in this dynamic and ever-evolving sector.?Ç¥ With a legacy of engineering excellence spanning over 25 years, Senvion India is one of the fastest growing companies in the Indian wind industry. Senvion's passion for innovation fuels its drive to create a sustainable future, making it a driving force in the industry.

Google has appointed Housam Alfaleh as the new Communications & Public Affairs Manager for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, based in Dubai. In his new role, Alfaleh will oversee Google's public relations and communications strategy across the MENA region, focusing on fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including governments, media, and community organisations.Alfaleh brings a wealth of experience in strategy, strategic communications, and government engagement. Before joining Google, he was a Graduate Fellow in the MENA practice at McLarty Associates in Washington, D.C., where he was involved in policy analysis and advising clients on political and economic developments in the Middle East. His expertise also extends to diplomatic relations and public affairs, positioning him well to navigate the complex landscape of communications in the region.At Google, Alfaleh will play a critical role in shaping the company's external communications and engagement strategies, particularly as the tech giant expands its presence and influence in the rapidly evolving digital markets of the MENA region. His appointment comes at a time when Google is ramping up its initiatives in the region, including investments in digital transformation, cloud infrastructure, and AI technology to support local innovation and growth.Alfaleh?ÇÖs appointment underscores Google?ÇÖs commitment to deepening its engagement and fostering stronger partnerships in the MENA region, which is experiencing rapid digital transformation and increasing demand for innovative technology solutions.

Global public relations agency Burson has appointed Chris Creegan as the new Director of Gaming & Esports, based in Dubai. In this role, Creegan will lead communications strategies for clients within the rapidly expanding gaming and esports industry across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.Creegan joins Burson from TikTok, where he served as Gaming Partnerships Manager, driving key initiatives and collaborations within the gaming sector. His move to Burson reflects the agency?ÇÖs commitment to strengthening its expertise and services in the booming gaming and esports market in the MENA region, which has seen significant growth in recent years due to increased investment, a burgeoning player base, and a rise in esports events.Creegan's expertise in building strategic partnerships within the gaming community, combined with his deep understanding of digital platforms, will be instrumental in crafting compelling narratives and driving impactful campaigns for Burson's clients. His appointment comes at a time when the MENA gaming market is projected to continue its rapid growth, driven by technological advancements and a young, tech-savvy population.Burson?ÇÖs expansion into the gaming and esports sector is part of a broader strategy to cater to the evolving needs of the digital economy in the region, where gaming has emerged as a key cultural and economic force. Creegan will collaborate closely with Burson?ÇÖs global network to deliver innovative communication solutions tailored to the unique demands of the gaming and esports industries.

FrieslandCampina, a Dutch multinational dairy cooperative, has appointed Sanjay Nair as the new Head of Public Affairs & Communications for Asia. Based in Singapore, Nair will be responsible for leading FrieslandCampina's communications and public affairs strategy across the region, enhancing the company's corporate reputation, managing crisis communications, and driving strategic advocacy initiatives.In his new role, Nair will oversee the development and execution of FrieslandCampina?ÇÖs regional communication strategies, focusing on public policy, corporate social responsibility, and stakeholder engagement. He will also play a crucial role in supporting the company's growth in key Asian markets, including China, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where FrieslandCampina is expanding its footprint in response to growing consumer demand for sustainable and nutritious dairy products.Nair brings over 15 years of experience in communications and media, having previously held senior roles at the Ministry of Law in Singapore, DBS Bank, OCBC Bank, and The Straits Times. His expertise spans various aspects of marketing communications, public affairs, and media relations, making him well-equipped to strengthen FrieslandCampina?ÇÖs position in the competitive Asian market.FrieslandCampina has been ramping up its efforts in Asia, recently launching new products tailored to local tastes and investing in sustainable dairy practices to reduce its carbon footprint. The company's Asia-Pacific operations have become increasingly important as it seeks to meet the region's rising demand for high-quality dairy products.FrieslandCampina operates across several Asian markets, including Indonesia, Hong Kong, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. The company is widely recognized in the region under the brand name "Dutch Lady.In December 2022, Dutch Lady Malaysia, in partnership with Leo Burnett Malaysia, launched the "CartonSwap" campaign to tackle the nutritional deficiencies facing Malaysians due to the nationwide egg shortage. The initiative aimed to provide alternative sources of essential nutrients, highlighting the brand?ÇÖs commitment to addressing local food security challenges.

The Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI) hosted the inaugural edition of PRana 2024: Shaping the Story of India, on September 4, 2024 at The Leela, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, which was attended by 20 key opinion leaders, 100-plus C-suite leaders and top communicators with the aim to co-create the new narrative of the nation, as India marches towards the centennial independence celebrations in 2047. The convention underscored the critical importance of compelling narratives for inspiring change, fostering innovation and contributing to the country?ÇÖs growth.The event witnessed the launch of the survey-based report ?ÇÿBharat ki Baat 2024?ÇÖ, a study commissioned by PRCAI to LocalCircles, India?ÇÖs leading community platform and pollster on public issues and governance. This study received over 180,000 responses from over 40,000 citizens located in 396 districts of India and it sought citizens?ÇÖ views on their hopes and aspirations in 10 key areas: growth and prosperity; geo-political influence; infrastructure; healthcare; sustainability and environment; education; skilling, employment and livelihood; ease of living cities and digital governance; technology and innovation; and communications and information.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\6f8bc3b13eb27f6dd3d7f4a365d184c7.jpeg' class='content_image'>The key findings of the PRCAI Bharat ki Baat 2024 study for India in the next five years (2029) are:Six in 10 Indians believe India will be the 3rd largest economy in the world and it will be a global manufacturing hub for at least five new sectorsSix in 10 Indians believe India is likely to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council and help create a comprehensive convention against international terrorismEight in 10 stated India will be able to expand modern road connectivity ecosystem to 15,000 km of access-controlled highways to improve mobility and decongest citiesSix in 10 Indians expressed hope that India will be able to achieve expansion of Jan Aushidhi Kendras to all districts to provide low-cost, affordable medicinesSix in 10 expressed optimisms that there will be infrastructure to impart technical skills to at least 2 million individuals and enable them to find/upgrade their jobs/earningsSix in 10 Indians stated that they look forward to the launch of Gaganyaan as India?ÇÖs first human spaceflight mission landing an astronaut on the moonNine in 10 indicated that authentic and timely communication and information will be critical for India to achieve trust and progress in the key development areasSix out of 10 respondents hoped India would have an enabling dynamic curriculum at school level as mandated by the NEP, which provides a foundation for emerging technologies and future industry needsSix out of 10 stated that they are optimistic about government enabling piped gas connections from current 1.1 crore to 5 crore households across IndiaFive out of 10 stated that the Government will ensure that drinking water supplied to the top 50 cities is free of contamination from arsenic, mercury and other industrial pollutants?Ç£India under the leadership Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is leading the world towards greater height in every field, be it infrastructure, fintech, federal governance and many more. The Government aims to ensure 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' to accomplish our goal for Viksit Bharat which coincides with 100 years of Independence. I believe all this will not be possible without an informed nation which can only be achieved with transparency and good governance. In my opinion, the communication fraternity will play a crucial role in achieving our goals for its citizens,?Ç¥ said Jyotiraditya Madhavrao Scindia, Union Minister for Communication and North Eastern Region.?Ç£The role of public relations is fast changing from communicators to business enablers. PRana 2024 for the first time will bring together India?ÇÖs key opinion leaders and reputation custodians who have a significant role in storytelling for nation building. ?ÇÿBharat ki Baat 2024?ÇÖ report by PRCAI validates the growing significance of the role of the public relations industry and the communications function in government, businesses or civil society organizations for ethical and authentic information,?Ç¥ said Deeptie Sethi, CEO, PRCAI. The public relations industry is on a growth trajectory and gaining increased recognition by the CEO and the C-Suites. According to SPRINT 2023*, the private sector, startup economy, and unicorns are fueling the PR industry?ÇÖs growth; the C-suite is increasingly recognizing PR and communications as a driving function rather than just an enabler. Eight out of 10 respondents for PRCAI SPRINT 2022-23* said that India Inc. leadership is working closely with their corporate communications team to devise strategies for brand communication, while 80% of corporate communications leaders report directly to the CEOs.?Ç£At the cornerstone of authentic communication and reputation management, the PR industry is well-positioned to shape and accelerate the nation's growth trajectory. Through PRana 2024, we have laid the foundation for a new era of strategic storytelling. With the launch of the Bharat Ki Baat 2024 report, we are also capturing real Indian voices, painting a vivid picture of the nation that India hopes to become as we approach India@100. Our overarching goal remains to amplify India?ÇÖs voice and celebrate its achievements through the power of new-age communication,?Ç¥ said Kunal Kishore, Vice-President, PRCAI.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\a6dee7da18bab8c95ed1e67d38dd39ea.jpeg' class='content_image'>Inspired by the global trend of shorter speeches, which is gaining popularity and reflects how people consume information in today's fast-paced world, the convention introduced a brand-new speech format called ?Çÿ300Wise?ÇÖ, where speakers delivered concise, high-impact visionary speeches in five minutes. Influential key opinion leaders shared their vision for India@100 at PRana 2024 which centered around how powerful ideas can positively impact four pivotal pillars of reputation centered around Leadership and Vision, Emotional Quotient, Country Economics and Social Elevation.PRana 2024 storytellers included business leaders and achievers such as Nadir Godrej, Chairman & MD of Godrej Industries, Imtiaaz Ali, Filmmaker, Ritesh Agarwal, CEO & Group Founder of OYO, Ashish Kumar Chauhan, MD & CEO of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), Captain Indraani Singh, World?ÇÖs First Airbus 300 Captain, Founder of Literacy India, Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd., Chhavi Rajawat, First MBA Sarpanch, Devdutt Pattanaik, Author, Guneet Monga, Academy Award- Winning Filmmaker, Founder, Sikhya Entertainment, Kapil Sibal, Lawyer & Politician, Dr. Deepa Malik, Padmashree Khel Ratna Awardee, Para-athlete, Paralympian, Alina Alam- Founder, Mitti Caf??, Licypriya Kangujam, Climate Activist, Dhuwarakha Sriram - Dhuwarakha Sriram, Chief of YuWaah, Youth Development, and Partnerships at UNICEF, Manish Sharma, Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India and South Asia, Abhishek Poddar, Founder, Museum of Art & Photography (MAP), and Supriya Paul, Co-Founder and CEO of Josh Talks, amongst others. The Story weavers included Shantanu Deshpande, Founder & CEO, Bombay Shaving Company & Visage Lines Personal Care Pvt. Ltd. (VLPCPL), Suhasini Haidar, Diplomatic Editor of The Hindu, Kaveree Bamzai, Independent Journalist, and Fatima Mahdi Karan, Moderator, Strategic Communications AandMedia Consultant.PRCAI at the story convention unveiled a sonic identity: the PRana Taal- Rise Together, a music composition by Tejas Menon saluting the spirit of new promising India.

In her new role, Anumita will be responsible for shaping and enhancing Amgen?ÇÖs reputation in India, managing all external communications, and driving strategic internal communications to build a cohesive and engaged workforce.  Anumita brings over 16 years of experience in corporate communications, most recently serving as the head of communications at Medtronic India. In her previous stint, she successfully led reputation-building initiatives, crisis management, internal communications strategies, patient awareness campaigns, and digital amplification, significantly enhancing brand recognition. Her leadership in innovative campaigns and thought leadership efforts have earned her several industry accolades, including multiple recognitions for her contributions to healthcare communication.

Glassdoor, the global leader in insights about jobs and companies, has appointed Sang Lee as its Corporate Communications Manager. In this new role, Lee will spearhead strategic communications initiatives to enhance Glassdoor's brand presence and reputation across global markets.She wrote on her LinkedIN page: "I?ÇÖm thrilled to share that I joined Glassdoor as the Corporate Communications Manager. It?ÇÖs so special to be joining a company that?ÇÖs been critical to my professional journey, dating back to the very first internship interview I was preparing for as a college student." Lee joins Glassdoor with extensive experience in corporate communications, having previously held positions at firms such as Expedia and Bumble, where she was instrumental in developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that aligned with business goals. At Glassdoor, Lee is expected to drive various communication efforts, including media relations, executive communications, and thought leadership programmes. Her appointment comes as the company continues to expand its global footprint, having recently launched localized websites in several new markets, including Singapore, India, and Brazil, to cater to the growing demand for workplace insights worldwide.Glassdoor, known for its anonymous employee reviews and insights about company culture, salaries, and interview processes, has been enhancing its platform with new tools and features to better support job seekers and employers alike. Recently, the company introduced advanced analytics capabilities, allowing organisations to gain deeper insights into employee sentiment and engagement.With this appointment, Glassdoor continues to strengthen its communications team amid an evolving job market landscape, ensuring it remains a vital resource for millions of job seekers and employers worldwide.

Wipro has appointed Dinesh Joshi as their General Manager and Head of External Communications. He is a seasoned business communications professional with expertise in corporate and crisis communication. Previously, he served as Head of Corporate Communication at HP for more than 8 years and as Vice President- external communications at Yes Bank Limited.He announced his appointment on LinkedIn.

EXL has appointed Neha Kumaar Garg as the Vice President of Internal Communications. Neha brings a wealth of experience in crafting compelling brand narratives, honed over years of working with diverse organizations across multiple sectors.Neha joins EXL at an exciting time, as the company continues to expand its global footprint with operations across six continents and a team of over 55,000 dedicated professionals. Her focus will be on fostering a people-centered approach to internal communications, ensuring that every voice within the organization is heard and valued."After years of crafting brand narratives for organizations, I've come to realize that what truly endures, regardless of the audience, is the heart of any brand?Çöits people," said Neha. "I am delighted to join EXL, where I can create people-focused narratives in a company that has been a leader in its field for 25 years. The insights into business value, emphasis on capability development, and sharp focus on advancing people to new roles already make me feel WOW!"In her new role, Neha is excited to enhance the brand experiences for both EXL's people and its partner community, aligning with the company's philosophy that there is always a better way to do things. "I look forward to a journey where every story counts and every voice matters, and I am eager to unlock and add value in new and innovative ways."

Teneo, the global CEO advisory firm, has announced two key senior leadership appointments to support the firm?ÇÖs continued growth in the UK and around the world.Nick Claydon has been appointed to a new, broader role as Vice Chairman, Global Strategy & Communications (S&C). He will, therefore, transition from his current position leading Teneo?ÇÖs UK S&C business to spend more time advising CEOs and clients around critical challenges.Nick has successfully run Teneo?ÇÖs UK S&C business for five years. During that time, he led the team through the pandemic and a period of growth, including the successful integration of Tulchan Communications. He leaves Teneo?ÇÖs UK S&C business as it is having a record year and positioned as a formidable and differentiated force in the market.Andrew Feldman will succeed Nick as CEO of UK S&C. He joined Teneo in 2023 as part of Teneo?ÇÖs acquisition of Tulchan Communications. Andrew was Managing Partner of Tulchan from 2019 to 2023, where he was responsible for the day-to-day management of the firm and advised key clients on their strategic communications. Prior to that, he was a Partner at Macro Advisory Partners, advising multinational clients on geopolitical risk. From 2010 to 2016, Andrew served as Chairman of the Conservative Party in the UK.As part of this transition, Geoff Morrell will now oversee the UK S&C business in his role as President of Global S&C. This will help foster even greater collaboration across the broader S&C business where Geoff already has responsibility for Teneo?ÇÖs Europe, Middle East and Asia-Pac S&C businesses.?Ç£We are delighted to announce new leadership roles for Nick and Andrew,?Ç¥ said Geoff Morrell, President of Global S&C, Teneo. ?Ç£They are both great client counselors and leaders within our business and will each continue to play important roles for the firm moving forward. I would like to thank Nick for his leadership of the UK S&C business over the last five years and also congratulate Andrew on his new responsibilities. I look forward to working with them both to build on the strong momentum we have in our UK S&C business and more broadly around the world. They are two of the very best in the business and we are lucky to have them.?Ç¥Nick Claydon said: ?Ç£It?ÇÖs been a privilege to lead the London office through a period of growth as we have transformed Teneo into a business where a combination of financial communications, political insight, reputation strategy and bold and creative campaigning is fused in our DNA. We have completed the successful integration of Tulchan, the combined teams are working well together, and the business has real momentum. I am looking forward to focusing on what I love most, partnering with Teneo clients around the globe to address some of their biggest challenges. No other firm offers the breadth or depth of services Teneo provides on an integrated basis and I am excited to take on this new challenge.?Ç¥Andrew Feldman said: ?Ç£I am very much looking forward to leading Teneo?ÇÖs UK S&C business. We have an exceptional team, with a diverse set of skills and perspectives, enabling us to offer valuable strategic communications advice to clients. We now have an exciting opportunity to accelerate the growth of the business from solid foundations.?Ç¥

VeriSmart AI, a Blockchain AdTech platform enabling data interoperability for companies while maintaining privacy compliance, proudly announces its strategic partnership with The Media Manifest, a leading PR agency renowned for its innovative communication strategies. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for VeriSmart AI in fortifying its communication strategies and amplifying its presence in the Blockchain AdTech industry. The Media Manifest will oversee VeriSmart AI?ÇÖs PR presence. Through this partnership, the agency aims to focus on effectively communicating the company?ÇÖs pioneering advancements and contributions to the future of Blockchain and Data Privacy front. Founded in 2017, Verismart AI is introducing an approach to advertising technology that addresses the shortcomings of traditional methods. By leveraging a decentralized data intelligence framework, Verismart aims to deliver more targeted and effective ads while giving importance to user privacy and control. They utilize blockchain technology to ensure the security and privacy of encrypted data within its decentralized data intelligence framework. Additionally, they leverage cumulative data intelligence of enterprises and brands for more than 528 Million users. The company?ÇÖs last two products have been inaugurated by PM Modi, namely, Digital Banking Unit, Dyslexia Voice Bot.Nupur Maheshwari, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, shared her enthusiasm: ?Ç£Partnering with VeriSmart AI is a thrilling opportunity for us to shape the narrative in the Blockchain AdTech sector. We are eager to apply our communication expertise to amplify their impact and lead the conversation on the future of the Data Privacy and Blockchain industry.?Ç¥The Media Manifest is a boutique Public Relations and Digital Media agency, founded by Kinjal Shah and Nupur Maheshwari in 2021. Having a focused approach in the new age space, TMM offers tailored public relations and digital solutions in the rapidly shifting ecosystem by driving the brand narrative to achieve maximum impact. Their expertise lies in strategic analysis, collaborations, and creative outlook from the brand?ÇÖs perspective. Headquartered in Mumbai, the agency provides solutions like Reputation Management, Crisis Communication, Strategic Consultation, and Influencer Marketing. The practices are centeredaround BFSI, Wealth Management, Personal Finance, Technology, Startup, Blockchain and Hospitality amongst other spaces.

The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) has confirmed its new board members after recent elections held during the Annual General Meeting (AGM).Denise Mackay (FPRINZ, APR), a returning board member, has been appointed as the new Chair. Mackay, who has been an elected board member since 2022, also serves as the Chief Judge for the annual PRINZ Awards since 2021. She brings extensive experience in leading strategic engagement and fostering relationships across government, the private sector, and international organizations.Joining the board as newly elected members are Jacquie Boer (FPRINZ, APR), Morwenna Grills (APR), Kelly Gunn, and Eruini Paranihi:  Jacquie Boer is a PRINZ Fellow with 30 years of experience in advertising, journalism, and public relations. She is currently the Principal of WPR, where she focuses on reputation management for clients in the infrastructure, forestry, and agriculture sectors in Aotearoa.Morwenna Grills is a communications and engagement leader with experience working at the Department of Corrections NZ, New Zealand Law Society, and New Zealand Parliament. A former journalist and Te Reo M?ori learner, she has a strong background in public sector communications.  Kelly Gunn serves as the General Manager of Communications at New Zealand Media & Entertainment (NZME). With nearly 20 years in PR, media, and communications strategy, she is known for her expertise in the media landscape.  Eruini Paranihi is the Senior Media and Communications Strategist at Te Taura Whiri I te Reo M?ori. He has a rich background in broadcast journalism, media relations, and content production.PRINZ also welcomes back Jackie Curtis (FPRINZ) and Alan McDonald as co-opted members for the new term:  Jackie Curtis, a PRINZ Fellow and Managing Partner at Cherry Red Consulting, has volunteered as a co-opted board member for two years and will continue as Chair of the PRINZ College of Fellows.  Alan McDonald, Head of Advocacy, Strategy, and Finance for the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA), returns for his second term on the board.This newly formed board aims to further PRINZ?ÇÖs mission of advancing the public relations profession in New Zealand through continuous professional development, advocacy, and upholding the highest standards of practice.

Victor John Platon has been elevated to the position of Director of Communications and Public Relations at the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, a prestigious non-profit organisation based in Manila. Platon brings over 15 years of experience in marketing communications (marcomms) to his new role, having previously served as the Head of Communications and Public Relations at the Foundation. His career spans various key positions in organisations like Children?ÇÖs Hour Philippines and McCann Worldgroup Philippines, where he contributed significantly to the advancement of public relations and marketing strategies.Under his leadership, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation continues to honour transformative leadership and selfless service throughout Asia. The Foundation, named after the seventh President of the Philippines, Ramon Magsaysay, has been bestowing the renowned Ramon Magsaysay Award since 1958 to individuals and organisations who demonstrate "greatness of spirit and transformative leadership" in addressing critical issues across Asia. These awards have been given to over 300 individuals and organisations from diverse fields such as public health, governance, education, human rights, and the arts, making it Asia's premier prize.Platon's appointment comes at a time when the Foundation is expanding its communication strategies to reach a broader audience and strengthen its impact across the region. His expertise will be crucial in enhancing the Foundation's outreach and engagement initiatives, particularly in promoting stories of remarkable change and achievements among the awardees. As the Foundation looks ahead to its upcoming events and initiatives, including its 2024 activities aimed at supporting sustainable development goals, Platon's leadership is expected to play a vital role in shaping its future direction and visibility on a global stage.(Image courtesy: mrvictorjohnplaton.wordpress.com)

Burson has named Simeon Mellalieu as CEO of its Hong Kong office, effective October 2, 2024.Mellalieu brings extensive experience from his previous role at Ketchum, where he served as Partner for Client Development in the Asia-Pacific region and Managing Director of Ketchum Hong Kong. With over 25 years in the communications industry, he has guided multinational companies in developing and executing national, regional, and global communications strategies.His diverse client portfolio spans various industries, including fast fashion, semiconductors, automotive, gaming, food and beverage, and banking.Before relocating to Hong Kong, Mellalieu spent time in the UK, gaining valuable experience at two prestigious PR agencies: Bulletin International in London, specializing in international broadcast PR, and Warman & Bannister in Cambridge, focused on technology PR.?Ç£We are delighted to welcome Simeon to our APAC leadership team. Hong Kong remains a critical regional hub for Asian companies seeking to build their reputation on the global stage. Simeon?ÇÖs extensive experience will help us further bolster our ?ÇÿAsia Going Global?ÇÖ offer in Hong Kong, helping clients navigate pivotal market changes and seize opportunities, both in the region and abroad,?Ç¥ said HS Chung, North APAC CEO, Burson. Simeon Mellalieu serves on the board of PR Hong Kong, showcasing his industry expertise and leadership.

One of the world?ÇÖs largest independent global communications and integrated marketing agencies, Ruder Finn, has announced that Zack Kass, former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI and a leading force in bringing artificial intelligence to business applications, will chair its new global AI Advisory Council.This partnership, exclusive in the PR industry, underscores Ruder Finn?ÇÖs commitment to leading the global AI revolution in communications. The AI Advisory Council will report to CEO Kathy Bloomgarden and will operate under the day-to-day leadership of CTO & Head of AI, Tejas Totade, and Managing Director of Ruder Finn Interactive Asia, David Ko. This newly established council, under Kass?ÇÖs guidance, will focus on developing and implementing AI strategies to benefit Ruder Finn?ÇÖs global client base.?Ç£At Ruder Finn, we believe that a company?ÇÖs approach to AI ?Çô how quickly they learn, integrate, and embrace its potential ?Çô will be a key factor in their future successack?ÇÖs global perspective and deep understanding o. Zf AI will be invaluable as we empower our teams and clients around the world to leverage these transformative technologies" said Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn.Zack Kass is one of the brightest and most experienced minds bridging practical applications for AI in the world today. He brings 14 years of experience in the AI field, having devoted pivotal years at OpenAI and having since advised leaders across Fortune 500 companies to The White House on AI strategies. Ruder Finn?ÇÖs partnership with Zack is exclusive in the Public Relations industry."The future of communications is inextricably linked with AI, leading to abundant possibilities,?Ç¥ said Kass. ?Ç£We're on the cusp of unlocking unprecedented creativity, efficiency, and impact in how we connect and communicate. This partnership with Ruder Finn is about empowering businesses to navigate this exciting frontier and leverage AI for meaningful and lasting success."The Ruder Finn AI Advisory Council will provide global AI strategies and hands-on guidance, ensuring clients of all sizes are equipped to harness the full potential of AI. Ruder Finn is in the process of finalizing the council?ÇÖs membership and will announce additional members representing diverse regions and expertise shortly."Our firm is setting a new standard in the industry by integrating advanced AI capabilities directly into our client offerings,?Ç¥ elaborated Elan Shou, Ruder Finn Asia-Pacific Managing Director. ?Ç£By transforming traditional PR with AI-driven insights and efficiencies, we're not just enhancing campaign outcomes?Çöwe're positioning ourselves as leaders in AI-powered communications.?Ç¥

Sonia Huria has put in her papers at Amazon Prime Video, where she was Head of Communications ?Çô APAC. She had joined the OTT platform in 2020 as a part of the global communications team ?Çô leading PR & Communications for Amazon Prime Video in India. She was promoted to the position of Head of Communications - APAC at Amazon Prime Video in October 2023.With over two decades of experience in the entertainment and the consumer space, Huria led brand and corporate communications for Viacom18 across all its five lines of business ?Çô broadcast entertainment, filmed entertainment, digital entertainment, experiential entertainment and consumer products ?Çô as well as led one of the industry?ÇÖs most decorated internal communication functions.Huria began her journey with Viacom18 in 2008, as part of the team that launched Hindi GEC ?Çô COLORS, which became the no.1 channel in the category within a span of 9 months from launch. Auguring the role of Sustainability, she successfully created a model of multi-partner funded behaviour change communication content at Viacom18. First with the TV series ?ÇÿNavrangi Re!?ÇÖ to ?ÇÿMTV Nishedh?ÇÖ.

We are in a new era of Public Relations. In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has taken a sea change. More brands and clients, especially from the leadership teams, are viewing Public Relations from a close range. The industry has undergone a radical change with the advent of social media, which has to a large extent changed the approach to Public Relations. We have a relatively new and young audience that we need to face in the coming years so there are bigger challenges for brands and PR practitioners, who have to be more agile and proactive in their thinking to draw up business solutions for clients.In our exclusive weekly column ?Çô PR Conversation ?Çô Adgully interacts with leading business leaders and obtains their exclusive views and insights on the various trends in the PR and communications industry.In conversation with Adgully, Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus PR, speaks about her 20 years of experience in the communications field and how she has witnessed the evolution of the role of PR, PRPOI?ÇÖs role in upskilling the PR industry, the key challenges and rewards she has faced in transitioning from working in top agencies to co-founding her own PR firm. Additionally, she shares insights on how PR agencies can tap into the audio revolution to effectively reach targeted audiences and craft compelling brand stories.With over 20 years of experience in the communications field, how have you seen the role of PR evolve, especially in terms of adapting to new media landscapes like digital and social platforms?In the last 20+ years that I have been in the industry, I have seen the pre-Orkut era to the social media boom to ChatGPT takeover communication mediums as each generation finds their own voice and mediums that they express themselves on, but seldom take over the role of the communicator. Not that attempts have not been made. Not that each change has not come with a now familiar rant of how ?ÇÿPR is dead?ÇÖ. Not that these have not challenged the PR profession to adapt and evolve.What has remained constant is the need for a smart communicator who can translate sentiment and messaging on both ends of these evolving communication mediums and tie these together to create a strong brand reputation. But the definition of this role itself has changed.With each change, the role of PR professionals has evolved. What was restricted to being involved in the activation stage and press coverage has now transitioned into communication consultants who use their unique skill sets to craft narratives with smart storytelling as they connect the dots that create a strong bedrock for brand reputations to be built on.PR now enjoys a seat in the boardroom, where the impact on reputation and its subsequent impact on the company?ÇÖs bottom line is taken into consideration at the start of an idea and not as an afterthought. The role of the PR leader has also undergone a considerable change over the years. From just leading the media coverage charge, they are now responsible for overall communication narratives and building bridges across digital, traditional, new age weaving them together to create and propel the brand reputation into the next phase of growth.PRPOI was established as a voluntary, free platform to upskill PR professionals. How do you see the importance of such communities in shaping the future of the PR industry in India?The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the one. Knowledge to upskill must be freely available to all if the industry has to evolve and maintain pace with the entire world of communication that is evolving at a breakneck speed. This is the bedrock on which the entire community of PRPOI has been established. Over the years, we have kept the industry updated through in-depth sessions, workshops, meetups, freewheeling chats, discussions, live sessions both online and offline along with blogs, courses and sessions offered by other communities and industry updates from our media friends to ensure upskilling is just a click away.When we started this community more than a decade ago, industry professionals took this with a bucket of salt. Over the years, this has been reduced to a spoonful of salt (we now aim to make this into a pinch). While we advocate upskilling and several professionals have taken advantage of it to save their jobs, get promotions, upskilling agency roles and find new jobs there has also been a considerable push from the PR community to stay ahead of the curve and upskill to maintain relevance which has benefited both the brand ecosystem and PR industry.Over the years, new communities have emerged as the vertical attracts new professionals who are motivated to advance the conversation which is essential for keeping discussions relevant and fostering continuous growth and innovation. They are going to become essential for the growth of the industry as each generation of professionals finds its groove in its own community. All of these communities will coalesce into the overall well-being of the industry.Nucleus PR has been a realization of your entrepreneurial dreams.What are the key challenges and rewards you?ÇÖve experienced in transitioning from working in top agencies to co-founding your own PR firm?It has been a learning experience. My entrepreneurial journey has been one of self-discovery and has challenged me at every stage to grow and evolve to the next level of growth. But if I were to trace challenges that pushed me towards specific points of growth, these would be:Individual ?Çô Realization that being an individual performer is less important than learning how to work with people where I invested in myself to help myself understand how to handle and work with people across various professions.Company ?Çô Learning that running a business is about much more than just knowing the profession which pushed me on a path of learning where I enrolled in mentorship programs to upskill and create a network that supported and pushed me to grow out of my comfort zone.Industry ?Çô The refusal of many in the industry to invest time in upskilling themselves and the utter frustration of the teams across at the lack of relevant talent led me to create PRPOI and introduce workshops and sessions that helped them garner real skills.Having worked with leading agencies and handled PR for MNCs across sectors, what strategies do you believe are essential for successful PR campaigns in today?ÇÖs diverse and dynamic market?PR campaigns that hit the mark almost always have these five key elements: focused customer-centric approach; understanding, accepting and acknowledging the changing preference of the customer; continuous study to pick relevant learnings for the next growth spurt; evolve and keep pace with changing customer mediums of communication; keep a finger on the pulse of the generation on a global scale.With the growing popularity of podcasts in India, how can PR agencies tap into the audio revolution to effectively reach targeted audiences and craft compelling brand stories?If you thought podcast popularity is about the audio... then you are wrong. It is now all about the video that accompanies it. The snippets on social media platforms along with the video-fication of podcasts is what is drawing viewers, advertisers and guests to the medium.While there are a lot of them that exist in the country at this point, a lot of them are still trying to break even. The best way that the PR community can leverage this is by understanding which brand partner makes the right fit for a specific podcast and which ones should actually start their own. End of the day, it should fit into your overall brand narrative.What advice would you give to aspiring PR professionals who are looking to make their mark in the industry, especially those interested in entrepreneurship and starting their own agencies?While there are so many that exist, this industry has the place and appetite for still more. I mentor a couple of new entrants every year, helping them identify the pitfalls and avoid them tactfully, hoping they can benefit from my experience instead of being baptized by fire and storm. The three bits that I always insist they consider before starting up:Choose your agency model and stick to it for at least a couple of years before deciding you want to pivot or switch.People management is going to be the key muscle that you will need to flex every single day. It will test you to the limits.Systems and processes, however boring they may sound, need to be put in place if your agency is going to have a fighting chance to grow.

80 dB Communications has been entrusted with the PR mandate for Experion Technologies, a progressive leader in Product Engineering. With a track record of creating transformative software products and solutions?Çöranging from EV charging stations to green lending platforms?ÇöExperion is at the forefront of industry advancements. 80 dB aims to bring these brilliant innovations and inspiring stories to audiences across India. 80 dB Communications, recognized for its expertise in integrated reputation management, will lead Experion's PR and external communications efforts going forward, working to amplify the company?ÇÖs comprehensive story across India.Experion Technologies started operating in India in 2006. Today, the company operates with a team of upwards of 1500 product engineering maestros across 3 cities in India and 8 offices internationally, which has allowed them to partner with almost 500+ customers globally across 37 countries. Experion is focused on creating meaningful value, innovation, and shared success through digitally driven programs for its customers, partners, and society. The organization has also been certified as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years.?Ç£Our partnership with 80 dB Communications marks an exciting new chapter for Experion. Their decade-long experience in the industry will undoubtedly be valuable as we aim to take our story across India. It?ÇÖs also heartening to know that 80 dB boasts an 80% women workforce, which aligns with our commitment to inclusivity and excellence. We look forward to leveraging their expertise to amplify our presence and share our journey with a broader audience. I am confident this partnership will yield extraordinary results, driving our mission forward with renewed energy and purpose.?Ç¥ said Binu Jacob, CEO & MD, Experion Technologies.Abhilasha Padhy, Co-founder and Jt. Managing Director, 80 dB Communications said, ?Ç£We are absolutely thrilled to partner with Experion Technologies, a company that exemplifies innovation and excellence in the tech industry. Their stories of building IP for their clients have a global impact, whether it be asset managing 19,000 kilometers of the best-run highway network in the world or developing EV charging solutions for top automotive brands. Their products are also integral to the operations of a third of U.S. insurance agents and 7 out of 10 independent supermarkets in Australia!At 80 dB Communications, we have a rich history of working with cutting-edge technology companies and are eager to leverage our expertise to amplify Experion?ÇÖs voice in the market. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to helping transformative companies like Experion communicate their inspirational work and build strong, lasting reputations in the industry.?Ç¥With ambitious growth plans on the horizon, Experion recognizes the need to attract quality talent from across the country, making a strong, nationwide presence a key priority. Additionally, Kerala's robust tech talent pool presents a unique opportunity, and Experion is committed to leveraging this potential to establish the state as a leading IT destination. By tapping into Kerala's skilled workforce, the proudly home-grown company is not just addressing current industry demands but also spearheading the next wave of digital transformation from this emerging tech hub.