Concept Public Relations India Limited (Concept PR), part of the Concept Group, an independent integrated communication group, has won the PR mandate for the esteemed Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a venture studio that supports entrepreneurial ideas of the fashion industry and fosters a collaborative fashion ecosystem, is inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas and grab the opportunity to transform their dreams into reality, with an initial investment of Rs 20 crores.Led by Mr. Sanjay Nigam and Mr. Vagish Pathak (Chairman, Fashion Entrepreneur Fund), the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) has garnered the support of prominent key business leaders as investors, including Indian film director Karan Johar, Vinod Dugar (Honorary Consul of Malawi and Co-Promoter of RDB Group), Mr. Sandeep Jain (Director of Vega Industries Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Gaurav Dalmia (Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings), Mr. Sukhraj Nahar (Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of Nahar Group), Ms. Manju Yagnik (Vice-Chairperson, Nahar Group), Mr. Prithviraj Kothari (Managing Director of RiddhiSiddhi Bullion Ltd - RSBL), Sonali Dugar (Dugar Finance & Investments Limited) and Mr. Naveen Jindal (Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power Limited). Together, they bring invaluable expertise to complement Mr. Nigam's entrepreneurial vision.The partnership with Fashion Entrepreneur Fund not only amplifies Concept PR's diverse portfolio but also solidifies its position as a leader in shaping and elevating brands. With a commitment to strategic prowess and immaculate execution, Concept PR is poised to bring its unique blend of creativity and expertise to the forefront of these prominent ventures.Mr. Ashish Jalan, Managing Director of Concept PR, conveyed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Concept PR is truly honored to be entrusted with the PR mandate for the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. This partnership not only reflects our steadfast dedication to fostering success in fashion and entrepreneurship but also underscores the exceptional concept behind FEF. As a venture studio, FEF is committed to nurturing innovative ideas within the fashion industry and fostering a collaborative ecosystem. With FEF inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their visionary business ideas, we are eager to leverage our expertise and creativity to enhance the brand presence of this prestigious venture. Together, we look forward to turning dreams into reality.”Highlighting Concept PR's strategic prowess, Mr. Jalan emphasized the value addition to the company's diverse portfolio through the inclusion of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. He stated, "Collaborating with industry leaders not only boosts our portfolio but also provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of these ventures. We are confident that our strategic insights and execution capabilities will play a pivotal role in making the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund a resounding success."Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of FEF India Fashion Awards and Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, conveyed his confidence in Concept PR. He stated, "Selecting a PR partner is a critical decision, and Concept PR's stellar industry reputation, coupled with their history of successful campaigns, made them the clear choice. I have full belief in the team's ability to authentically convey the essence and vision of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund.” “Entrusting them with our 'baby' is a decision I make with absolute trust in their capabilities," affirmed Mr. Nigam. This partnership signifies the alignment of shared values and goals, and Concept PR is geared up to deploy its expertise to enhance the visibility and impact of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. The collaboration promises a synergy of creativity, innovation, and strategic communication that will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in the fashion and entrepreneurship industries.

The Hype Studio, a PR and digital marketing agency, has won the PR mandate for the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League. This collaboration marks a milestone in promoting Kabaddi as a premier sport in India, paralleling the success of other major sporting leagues.The Hype Studio, founded in 2018, has carved a niche in crafting brand narratives and digital strategies. With a portfolio that includes PR, digital marketing, and influencer management, The Hype Studio is poised to elevate the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi league through communication strategies and engaging media advocacy."The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League represents not just a sport, but a cultural heritage that resonates deeply within India. We are excited to leverage our expertise in omni-channel communication to bring this vibrant sport to the forefront of the Indian sports scene. Our approach will blend creative storytelling with strategic insights to foster a strong connection between the league and its fans," said a senior management from The Hype Studio. The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League, a venture initiated by 1X Sportz in association with the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi Association, aims to showcase and nurture local talent through a structured sports platform. With eight teams competing in a total of 60 matches, the league promises to be a crucible of high-octane Kabaddi action, adhering to a double round-robin format to ensure fair and competitive play.The league has been strategically developed to reflect the IPL model, offering a significant opportunity for local athletes to gain recognition and develop their skills on a grand stage. "Our partnership with The Hype Studio is crucial in creating a resonant brand identity and a compelling narrative for the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League. Their innovative approach and proven track record in public relations make them the ideal partner to help us realise our vision of making Kabaddi a household sport across India," said Sambhav Jain, founder of 1X SportzThe Hype Studio's focus will not only be on promoting the league but also nurturing a sustainable interest in Kabaddi, enhancing its appeal and accessibility through strategic media placements and captivating digital campaigns.

Omnicom's PR arm faced a rough first quarter of 2024, marking its third consecutive decline in revenue. The 1.1% dip comes after a 2.9% drop in Q4 2023 and a steeper 5.5% decline in Q3. This stands in stark contrast to the positive performance of Omnicom as a whole, which saw global revenue rise 4% organically in Q1.PR's struggles were overshadowed by strong growth in other areas. Advertising & media, precision marketing, experiential marketing, and healthcare all saw revenue increases. Conversely, branding & retail commerce and execution & support also experienced losses.Despite the PR group's struggles, Omnicom CEO John Wren remains optimistic. He highlights the company's ability to combine marketing and sales solutions with data-driven insights to deliver measurable results for clients. Wren also credits industry-leading tools and strong leadership for the company's new business success, which fuels his confidence in the future.Looking back, Q1 2024 marks a significant shift from the previous eight quarters of consistent PR growth. Prior to this period, the PR group enjoyed impressive gains, exceeding 4% growth in most quarters. The first quarter of 2021 stands as the last time the group experienced a decline.

Communications firm SKDK has elevated Jasmine Hooks to COO. In this new role, she will be overseeing the agency's daily operations.Jasmine Hooks, who has served as SKDK's deputy COO since 2021, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. In her previous role, she spearheaded initiatives in HR policy development, contract management, internal communications, employee relations, and talent acquisition. She takes over for Jacqui Newman, who is departing SKDK to pursue a new opportunity.“Jasmine's expertise and leadership have been invaluable to SKDK. Today, as we announce her promotion to the role of COO, we are deeply honoured to welcome her to the leadership team. In doing so, Jasmine becomes one of the few women of colour to helm operations at a major communications firm, a milestone we celebrate with pride,” said Doug Thornell.Prior to her tenure at SKDK, Hooks functioned as the Chief Operating Officer within the administration of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. In this role, she oversaw the state's efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, crafted an inclusive framework for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and implemented numerous policies and protocols statewide. Additionally, Hooks played pivotal roles in various capacities during the Pritzker campaign. A native of Chicago, she is an alumna of Marquette University.“I am deeply honoured to step into the COO role and immensely grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me during this new era at SKDK. I am energized by the opportunity to provide hands-on leadership in all operational facets, ensuring we continue to always put our best forward—for our staff, those clients that rely on us, and all of our external partners,” said Jasmine Hooks.  SKDK has offices in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, New York City, California, etc.

UK financial services firm Buchanan Communications is joining Burson, expanding the number of brands under the new agency’s umbrella.Buchanan becomes part of Burson immediately. The agency, which WPP acquired in 1997, provides private and public companies services including capital market advisory on transactions including M&A, and crisis and change management.Buchanan also provides a comprehensive sustainability offering, including sustainability reporting and communications, along with creative services, including brand, website design, financial marketing collateral design, and digital content. The Buchanan team serves clients across consumer, leisure and gaming; energy and renewables; financial services; industrials and infrastructure; investment companies; life sciences and healthcare; mining and metals; professional services; and technology, media and telecommunications.  Buchanan will operate as a brand within Burson along with Hill & Knowlton, GCI Health and AxiCom. The integration of Buchanan comes ahead of BCW’s July 1 merger with sister WPP agency Hill & Knowlton into a single entity called Burson. The merger will create a $1bn PR firm that could arguably be the industry's biggest player.“Building reputation to grow brand and business value requires engagement across the full range of stakeholder audiences, including capital markets,” said BCW global CEO Corey duBrowa, who will be Burson’s global CEO Burson when the merger is completed. “Beyond strengthening financial confidence or ‘investability’ in an organization, managing relationships with investor audiences is crucial to optimizing and protecting a company’s valuation and reputation. Bringing the exceptional team at Buchanan to Burson gives us immediate strength in financial communications in key international markets and the firepower to expand this expertise at scale.”Buchanan chairman Richard Oldworth said, "The formation of Burson as the market-leading powerhouse in the global communications industry provides an exceptional opportunity for Buchanan to consolidate its leading position in London and expand its operations internationally. We share a common vision with Burson of building and protecting reputations, delivering significant value and placing our clients first, as capital markets evolve and present exciting global opportunities. Having the expansive global network and complementary skillsets which Burson provides will be of tremendous value to our existing and prospective clients."

Jaideep Manchanda, a seasoned marketing and media professional with over 17 years of experience, is set to bring his wealth of expertise to Adfactors PR as the newly appointed Vice President Digital. With a proven track record spanning various leadership roles in digital marketing and brand management, Jaideep has consistently delivered innovative marketing solutions and spearheaded successful campaigns, consumer research, events and activations across digital and offline channels for B2B and B2C brands.Graduating with an MBA in Marketing from IIM Lucknow, Jaideep has held key positions in renowned organizations, showcasing his strategic acumen and deep understanding of the media landscape. Notably, he spent significant years at Bennett Coleman & Co., where he served as the Brand Head for The Economic Times’ new initiatives, driving go-to-market strategy for ET's podcast product- The Morning Brief and overseeing a team dedicated to monetizing ET’s content through various platforms.During his tenure as Brand Solutions Head for Economictimes.com B2B Business at Times Internet Limited, Jaideep worked to drive the revenue mandate by conceptualization and delivery of digital brand solutions for B2B clients. Previously, he was also responsible for GTM strategy of Economictimes.com main website while owning the positioning, communication strategy, partnerships & alliances for the brand, and launching brand campaigns targeting students, women audience, MSMEs etc. ET India Inc. Boardroom, ET Campus Stars and ET Prime Women Leadership Awards are some of the successful initiatives that he launched, scaled and monetized during his tenure.Prior to his corporate roles, Jaideep co-founded a digital marketing company and scaled it while keeping it profitable and bootstrapped. He worked with clients across Fintech, Edtech, Ecommerce, Gaming, Real Estate etc while advising them on customer acquisition and retention through performance marketing across display, email, adwords, social media and programmatic channels. Jaideep started his career as a consultant with IBM’s Strategy & Change practice and was a key member of IBM’s APAC marketing leadership team that was responsible for execution of marketing programs for demand generation and sales growth. Throughout his career Jaideep has worked in turn-key marketing roles that created a direct impact on top-line while winning accolades and awards. In his new role at Adfactors PR, Jaideep is poised to leverage his extensive experience to drive digital strategies for Adfactors’ existing clients and further elevate the agency's offerings and solidify its position as a leader in the industry.

Edelman has appointed Marie Claire Maalouf as the new EMEA Chief Creative Officer, following the departure of Mattias Ronge and Stefan Ronge. Maalouf, who previously served as the Middle East Chief Creative Officer at Edelman, will lead the agency's creative output across 13 markets in EMEA, including brand marketing, digital, influencer and entertainment, and will be based in the UAE.Throughout her career, Maalouf has been recognized for her work on impactful campaigns, such as 'Despair No More' for Tena, which aimed to redefine menopause for women in the Middle East. She has received numerous awards for her creative work, including Cannes Lions, The One Show, Caples, Clio Awards, LIA Awards, Dubai Lynx, D&AD, ANDYs, Warc, and Effies.Judy John, Edelman Global Chief Creative Officer, expressed her excitement for Maalouf's appointment, stating that she is confident that Maalouf's leadership will elevate the agency's work in the EMEA region.Maalouf expressed her enthusiasm for joining Edelman, stating that she was inspired by the agency's mission to build actionable brands through trust and the opportunity to work with a team of passionate creatives.AJ Hesselink, EMEA Chief Executive, expressed gratitude towards the outgoing co-chief creative officers and welcomed Maalouf's appointment, stating that she has already made a significant impact on the agency's ability to win new clients and produce important work.

Priya Dhawan has advanced to the role of Head of Communications, YouTube APAC at Google. Dhawan is a veteran in communications and public affairs, boasting more than 14 years of industry experience. She revealed her promotion on LinkedIn, stating, “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Head of Communications, YouTube APAC at Google.”Priya Dhawan has been a part of Google for over six years, holding roles such as Head of Policy & Reputation Communications for YouTube APAC and APAC Lead for Product & Policy Communications for YouTube, among others. Prior to joining Google, she spent more than five years at Edelman and also worked with 20:20 Media.

While technology is booming, storytelling remains an enduring superpower in the realm of public relations (PR). A staggering 88% of PR professionals consider it the cornerstone of successful campaigns, as it enables brands to forge emotional connections with their audience and is the magic ingredient that imbues promotional messages with meaning and resonance. This insight comes from the most recent report, Emerging Dynamics in Public Relations, by W7Worldwide, a marketing consultancy based in Saudi Arabia.PR professionals should leverage digital technology and cultivate robust connections with their audiences. Embracing this proactive strategy is essential for navigating the ongoing transformation of the industry, characterized by the digital age, an intricate media environment, and diverse consumer behaviors. Relying mostly on media outreach and crisis management has become pointless. Today's PR landscape requires fostering two-way communication, organic outreach, and evolving audience engagement. Recognizing this shift, the report highlights the significant changes in PR strategies brought about by the digital revolution. The emphasis has moved from building general connections with media to delivering targeted, audience-specific content. Modern digital PR now encompasses a broader spectrum, including influencer relations, social media management, branding, and strategic communications.The power of AIThe report further explores the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in PR. AI integration is revolutionizing the industry, opening up new frontiers for creativity and efficiency. PR professionals are keenly aware of AI's potential, with a recent survey revealing that 20% saw it as a major trend redefining the industry.W7Worldwide report highlights the necessity of extensive learning and adaptation to successfully navigate this ever-evolving landscape. PR professionals must embrace new tools and technologies, develop the skills to wield them responsibly, stay informed about emerging trends, and commit to lifelong learning. They must also recognize the power of social media and influencers as key players in crafting impactful PR campaignsReaching the Audience Reaching target audiences in a congested digital landscape is a major challenge for public relations professionals. They need to differentiate themselves from rivals by offering promotions that no one else is offering.Storytelling with an emphasis on originality, relevance, and timeliness; using data and visions to spot opportunities and threats; and measuring the efficacy of PR campaigns were among the methods outlined in the report as ways to get over this roadblock.There had never been a media relations crisis like the COVID-19 epidemic. The report delves into the ways PR professionals rose to the challenge, using cutting-edge tactics like social media, video calls, and podcasts to forge new communication channels with journalists. These alternate approaches proved invaluable in maintaining effective communication amid social separation and lockdowns.Demonstrating ROIWith increased scrutiny on PR budgets, proving the tangible value of campaigns is crucial. The report underscores the importance of providing clear, measurable results that showcase the contribution of PR to business success and goal achievement. By quantifying the impact of PR efforts, professionals can justify budgets and secure continued investment.Sustainability StorytellingMoving ahead, the report stresses the importance of sustainability storytelling, recommending that public relations experts use engaging stories and statistics to highlight a company's eco-friendly endeavors and long-term sustainability objectives. Highlighting the impact of these efforts enhances brand recognition and resonates with eco-conscious audiences. Additionally, the report emphasizes the crucial role of data analysis in optimizing content, targeting audiences, measuring performance, and boosting online presence through SEO and social media strategies.Promising LandscapeThe research concludes with expressing optimism about the future of Saudi Arabia's PR industry. With an anticipated 7.87% growth rate from 2023 to 2028, reaching a projected market size of $2.03 billion by 2028, the digital media offers promising opportunities for the future of the industry. The key lies in striking a balance between traditional and digital approaches, enabling PR professionals in Saudi Arabia to develop effective and impactful strategies.

mPokket, India's fastest-growing loan app, today announces the appointment of Ms. Rajani Jalan as its new Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and People Relations (PR). In her new role, Ms. Jalan will lead mPokket's efforts in developing robust CSR strategies, enhancing public awareness of the company's social commitments, and steering the brand's narrative across various platforms.Ms. Jalan's passion for CSR is deeply rooted in her belief in the power of businesses to make a meaningful impact on society. At mPokket, she is inspired by the company's existing CSR initiatives and the welfare of its employees. Her vision includes ramping up employee participation in social responsibility efforts and launching more sustainable CSR initiatives within the organization. Her approach aligns with mPokket's commitment to contributing positively to the community and fostering an ethical, socially responsible corporate culture.Gaurav Jalan, Founder and CEO of mPokket, commented, "Rajani's passion for enacting positive change aligns perfectly with our values, and we are confident that her leadership will further amplify our efforts in social responsibility. With her unique blend of creativity and dedication, we look forward to achieving greater impact and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable approach to corporate social engagement. We are confident that her leadership will not only enhance our CSR and PR endeavours but also inspire our team to contribute to our collective goals as an organisation." With a unique blend of creativity and social consciousness, Ms. Jalan brings to mPokket an impressive background as a Textile Designer from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Before joining mPokket, she carved a niche for herself as an independent designer, contributing to export houses and managing a successful cloud kitchen business. Her freelance projects have not only showcased her design prowess but also her dedication to social causes, making humanitarian work a core part of her professional journey. Speaking on her appointment, Ms. Jalan commented, "The vision and mission of mPokket resonate profoundly with my inherent drive to effect positive change through corporate social responsibility endeavours. I look forward to leveraging my unique background and experiences to implement strategies that will not only amplify our impact but also foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to corporate social engagement, while cultivating a strong culture of philanthropy within the organisation." Ms. Jalan's appointment underscores mPokket's ongoing dedication to social responsibility and ethical practices. Under her guidance, the company aims to strengthen its position as a leader in CSR within the financial sector, fostering community well-being and promoting sustainable business practices. Additionally, her role as Director of People Relations marks a strategic transition in mPokket's organizational strategy, aimed at enhancing internal stakeholder engagement and fostering employee engagement, and ensuring the well-being of the organisational workforce.

Prosek Partners, an independent marketing and communications agency for financial and professional services, has expanded its international operations with the opening of its first office in the Middle East. The office, located in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, will serve as Prosek’s regional hub as the firm looks to serve existing and prospective clients across the Gulf and wider MENA region.To lead the Middle East office and operations, Prosek has hired Diana Estupinan as Managing Director and Head of MENA. Diana joins from Instinctif Partners, where she served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Client Officer for the Middle East. She has extensive experience delivering high-impact, integrated PR and IR programs for financial services and capital markets clients, as well as leading operational growth strategies, including establishing Instinctif’s office in Saudi. At Prosek, Diana will be responsible for developing integrated communications and investor relations programs for local and international clients in the Middle East, as well as leading the firm’s business development, hiring and growth strategy in the region.“As the regional hub for institutional finance, Abu Dhabi is a logical next step in our global expansion plan,” said Jennifer Prosek, Managing Partner. “Since meeting Diana, I knew she was the perfect fit for us. Her entrepreneurial spirit, can-do attitude and industry know-how are exactly what we look for in our people. Her international experience combined with a deep local network and intimate understanding of the Middle Eastern market make her the ideal candidate to spearhead our growth in the region.”Diana will work closely with the firm’s London office, which boasts one of the largest financial services communications teams in the UK, to ensure a unified strategy across EMEA. Diana Estupinan, Managing Director and Head of MENA, said: “I’m delighted to join Prosek Partners and drive the firm’s growth and operations in the Middle East. The firm’s extensive client list of global financial and professional services firms is unrivalled, and the opportunity to build sophisticated communications strategies to support their growth in the region is vast. As one of the preeminent financial centres in the Middle East, ADGM is a prime location to serve these clients, and I look forward to getting started.”  Currently advising more than $66 trillion in client assets globally, Prosek Partners serves clients across financial and professional services, including M&A advisory, asset and wealth management, commercial and retail banking, investment banking, legal, financial technology, venture capital, insurance, cryptocurrency and more.Diana began her career at communications firm Hill+Knowlton in the UAE. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from Franklin University in Lugano, Switzerland and a BSc in Government and Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

BCW and Hill & Knowlton, which will merge as of July 1, 2024, to form Burson, today announced that leading financial communications and capital market advisory firm Buchanan Communications, part of WPP, will become part of Burson, effective immediately.Buchanan Communications specializes in supporting companies that require access to the capital markets to raise financing; optimize valuation; enhance reputation; and create new and lasting supporters among the investor, analyst and media communities. Founded in 1984 and acquired by WPP in 1997, Buchanan provides a fully integrated service for its publicly listed and private clients, which includes strategic counsel on relations with all capital market stakeholders, on all types of transactions (including M&A), as well as crisis and change management and all other corporate situations. Buchanan also provides a comprehensive sustainability offering, including sustainability reporting and communications, along with creative services, including brand, website design, financial marketing collateral design, and digital content.“Building reputation to grow brand and business value requires engagement across the full range of stakeholder audiences, including capital markets,” said Corey duBrowa, Global CEO, BCW, who will hold the same role with Burson upon completion of the merger. “Beyond strengthening financial confidence or ‘investability’ in an organization, managing relationships with investor audiences is crucial to optimizing and protecting a company’s valuation and reputation. Bringing the exceptional team at Buchanan to Burson gives us immediate strength in financial communications in key international markets and the firepower to expand this expertise at scale.”The Buchanan team serves clients across consumer, leisure and gaming; energy and renewables; financial services; industrials and infrastructure; investment companies; life sciences and healthcare; mining and metals; professional services; and technology, media and telecommunications."The formation of Burson as the market-leading powerhouse in the global communications industry provides an exceptional opportunity for Buchanan to consolidate its leading position in London and expand its operations internationally” said Richard Oldworth, Chairman of Buchanan.?“We share a common vision with Burson of building and protecting reputations, delivering significant value and placing our clients first, as capital markets evolve and present exciting global opportunities. Having the expansive global network and complementary skillsets which Burson provides will be of tremendous value to our existing and prospective clients.”Buchanan Communications will be a brand within Burson together with Hill & Knowlton, GCI Health and AxiCom.On January 25th, WPP announced it would merge its two largest communications agencies, BCW and Hill & Knowlton, to form Burson, a powerhouse delivering modern communications leadership at scale to clients across the world. The merged company will become an industry-leading, full-service communications agency focused on building and protecting reputation. Burson will be operational as of July 1, 2024.

Authored by - Anand Prakash, Reputation Management ConsultantJust a few years back, we experienced the biggest public health crisis in the 21st century, with far-reaching consequences for our economy, health, international relations, and sociocultural environment. The COVID-19 pandemic was the first-of-its-kind disruptive crisis experienced by mankind. The situation was new and unprecedented. There was much learning involved in navigating the crisis, especially while communicating with various stakeholders. Since then, we have displayed tremendous resilience and have scripted a strong recovery emerging from the shadows of the pandemic. Since Hon’ble Indian Prime Minister ushered the nation into the age of Amrit Kaal, the country has embodied a spirit of relentless positivity. It was then the vision of India@100 was shared with us to work towards a new dawn for the country, which will bring with it the chance to fulfil the nation’s aspirations. Today, India finds itself in a unique position to be making history. From a world perspective, developed countries like UK, Japan, and Ireland have entered into a technical recession, and around 14 more are standing on the edge. Around 70 countries are facing debt distress, around half of them are in the high-risk zone, and 4 to 5 have defaulted since 2020. Other developing economies are showing a sluggish growth trend, even as the global GDP is expected to slip from an estimated 2.7% (FY2023) to 2.4% (FY2024). Even China is experiencing an economic slowdown having recently experienced back-to-back crises in its real estate sector.  Contrarily, India stands strong with a 7.3% GDP growth going past the International projections. India has done so amidst strong global headwinds, such as climate change, international conflicts and hostile geopolitics, energy market and supply chain disruptions, and many more.  Multiple factors, including prudent policy making, aggressive developmental initiatives, increased capital expenditure, fostering international relations, and so on have contributed to our economic growth. However, one factor stands out. For the first time ever in the history of independent India, we have a vision and a roadmap for the next 25 years, offering much clarity to the citizens on what we need to work towards as a nation. The year 2024 will be critical for India, as the nation will go on to exercise its democratic right. Irrespective of the outcome, the period of Amrit Kaal is unique and special. In my interactions with over 40 CXOs in recent times, I have observed how brands have adopted to be a part of the Amrit Kaal narrative, absorbing the spirit of positivity, by not only bringing a transformation in organizational mindset but also adopting it in their communication strategies to reflect upon the brand image. However, even at the times of high positivity, there is a need to be cautious and thought oriented. Amrit Kaal is also new and unprecedented. While it presents us with tremendous opportunities to share our stories, a blind approach may lead to unforeseen fallouts. All organizations want to continue building a stronger brand image. However, just as success cannot be guaranteed even if market conditions are right. One has to take the right steps and not take conditions for granted.As communication and reputation consultants, we are committed to helping brands across sectors, automotive, real estate, technology, finance, start-ups, energy, media, new economy, and many more to get the organizational alignment right and leverage the power of storytelling to build compelling Amrit Kaal brand stories. I am leaving you with four questions that might trigger some thought: ·      How or in what ways is your brand in Amrit Kaal? ·      While aligning your story with Amrit Kaal, what is that is unique that you are telling? ·      Other than positivity, what key emotions, say empathy, courage, pride, hope, inspiring, are central to your story? ·      How can the Amrit Kaal narrative become a part of the organization’s change management communication? Your organization is contributing to nation-building, and in doing so, it has many stories to tell. Building brand reputation needs the right stories to be told to the right people at the right time using the right platform and tools. While stepping into the new financial year, as we collectively work in the times of Rising Bharat, the first step would be to find the right communication partner to tell your Amrit Kaal narrative to the world and help shine spotlight on your contribution to the nation’s goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. 

In the last 10 years, PR has taken a different dimension, especially after the entry of social media and the rapid shift to digital during the pandemic period. At the same time, the industry has been facing stiff challenges; moreover client expectations have also increased, with more emphasis being given to digital and online reputation management. The industry has undergone a radical shift and the current times have pushed the industry to change gears.In an exclusive interview with Adgully, Pallavi Tinekar, Vice President - Technology & Startups, Concept PR India, shares her journey from communications to technology and startups, addressing challenges in mentoring, accelerating funding conversations. She also highlights a successful communications campaign for a tech product and discusses staying updated with digital marketing trends, PR’s role in the startup ecosystem, navigating diverse audiences, fostering innovation.Could you share with us your journey from communications to technology and startups, and how your expertise in combining these fields has influenced your role as VP of Technology & Startups at Concept PR India Ltd?I started working with a couple of startups back in 2002, which were intended to increase potential businesses for the STD/PCO booth owners. At the time, their business was struggling as mobile phones entered the Indian market. This was my first brush with technology and its power to help a fellow citizen. The product was a smart card and it covered the whole spectrum – from paying bus fares to buying groceries. The PCO owners were supposed to collect electricity and relevant bill monies from households as part of increasing business, like an extension to e-seva, to be implemented nationwide. Such projects needed visibility and a degree in communications did just that. Once you realize the influence you have had on a project, you never want to look back. That is what happened to me. From startups to agencies to working in corporate communications roles, I have realized that simplicity can be a valuable asset and can offer numerous advantages over complexity.Moving on, I had the privilege to work with the finest professionals in the communications business which shaped me in the past two decades. Dealing with the Satyam crisis taught me a lot of resilience and team spirit. Goals cannot be achieved in silos; every team member is crucial for collective success. It is pertinent to understand the power of resources at hand to deal with any situation. As I collaborated with the communications team at Microsoft, I learned more about communication strategies and their direct impact on the quality of stories or results garnered. It was an unlearning and (a lot of re-learning) as I led the business communications for Microsoft, after doing PR for Red Hat, an open-source software provider, after moving agencies.Then I moved into a corporate communications role with CA Technologies and it had been a refreshing experience working with the team. I worked with various domestic and international leaders, giving me global exposure to cultures, diversity & inclusion, marketing strategies, internal communications, managing events, and analyst relations, among other things. Previous experiences helped shape communications at CA Technologies India and various APAC-level vertical businesses as well as the R&D centre in India.My second corporate communications stint was with Amazon Web Services with a crucial role in launching their India Region in 2016. As their first comms hire, there was a lot of pressure, building the strategy and working with communications teams worldwide, to launch the India region within two months of onboarding. But that was the thrill too! This was the mother-ship as I call it – working with enterprises, startups, channel partners, global and regional leadership – all in one to land a successful campaign that lasted for a few months.My journey entails working with technology companies – software, services, products, and each day I learn more. I have had the privilege to work with global CEOs and CXOs, including Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Jim Whitehurst (Red Hat/IBM), Mike Gregoire (CA), Andy Jassy (Amazon) and Werner Vogels (Amazon).Years later, the combination of all of the above experiences helps to build the foundation of a sustaining business with Concept PR. I have in-depth experience in external, internal, and CSR communications as well as reputation management for large IT MNCs, early-stage startups, and SMEs. As part of various local and global teams, I have collaborated and trained several executives for media and speaking engagements and have successfully initiated and run industry speaking programs. As part of my corporate communications experience, I have managed agencies, budgets, and communications mandates for various spokespeople (India, APAC, and global).What are some key challenges that you have faced while mentoring startups and helping them accelerate funding conversations and achieve growth?Mentoring startups and facilitating their growth can be both rewarding and challenging. I have been in some situations where mentoring was viewed as just another task rather than a personal development opportunity. It took several conversations for the teams to look at the opportunities such sessions got them.Mentoring is synonymous with patience. It takes a lot of convincing to get buy-in from a startup team, especially if they are not inclined to a certain thing. That can be image management, for example. Sometimes the founders are more focused on their image management than building the product. With my PR background, I may agree on that, but an MVP or pivoting on a product may get the founders more eyeballs from the right audience, that is, the funding teams. Image management can always follow on the back of a viable product that solves a current market problem.Sometimes, I also learn about mismatched expectations or over-dependence on mentor/s, thereby expecting them to solve the founders’ of startups' problems. Some founders want to follow a certain route under peer pressure, which may or may not work for their kind of product or company. In my experience, a bulk of the time is invested in making them see perspectives and balancing views and outcomes.Right advice along with time investment is crucial for early-stage startups, which also comes when they have put their best foot forward to receive funding and/or are part of an accelerator. Founders need a few degrees of extra attention and that can be due to language barriers, or less exposure to funding processes.Could you discuss a particularly successful communications campaign or event you led for a technology product or startup, and the impact it had on the target audience?I will talk about a product which created such an impact that its audience started talking about it. At the time, there was no visibility in the press. The implementation of Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) led to a study conducted by IIM Bangalore, highlighting the role of FOSS and its impact in developing countries. Often a substitute for more expensive proprietary software, FOSS can impact the economy and progress of a country, like India, in a very positive way.We worked on a campaign to highlight the impact and talk about the positives from the survey report ‘Economic Impact of FOSS in India’ which was based on 20 case studies from various Indian government departments and educational institutions with FOSS being used as an operating system, server, or application. It was a strategic communications campaign and with the support of the media, propelled conversations with various companies. It was exciting to see that our primary target audience from a PR point of view, the media, was very intrigued. We experienced a wave of questions, in ways of interviews and meetings to learn more about FOSS. Without mentioning numbers, the quality of conversations was overwhelming and encouraging.With your experience in new media and content creation, how do you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in digital marketing for technology brands?I have identified some reputable sources of information in the digital marketing and technology sector and follow them for trending topics and best practices. This includes industry-leading blogs, websites, and online publications that cover topics related to digital marketing, technology trends, and insights. Some popular sources include HubSpot, Moz, Search Engine Journal, Neil Patel’s blog, and Social Media Examiner.Attending industry conferences, events, and webinars focused on digital marketing and technology helps to navigate your business conversations and general understanding of consumer behaviour. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide valuable knowledge and connections.I encourage joining online communities and forums, where digital marketers and technology professionals gather to discuss trends and share insights. Platforms such as Reddit, Quora, LinkedIn Groups, and specialized forums like GrowthHackers and Warrior Forum can offer opportunities to participate in discussions, ask questions, and learn from industry peers. Identify influential individuals and thought leaders in the digital marketing and technology space. Follow them on social media platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube, where they often share valuable insights, industry news, and updates. Engage with their content and participate in discussions to stay current with emerging trends.Most of my reading involves market research reports to gather insights and be abreast of trends, consumer behavior, and technology adoption.The landscape is constantly evolving, so it is important to allocate time and develop a habit of consuming relevant content regularly, engaging with industry professionals, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow within the digital marketing field.What role do you believe public relations plays in the growth and success of technology startups, especially in terms of building brand reputation and attracting investment?The role of Public Relations is integral to startups as they aim to build brand awareness. Startups often struggle to stand out in a cluttered market. PR can cut through this by putting their message out through various formats. In this, the founders go through some internal churn (if not already) to think through positioning and perception about themselves and their offerings.PR also helps to build trust. Trust is vital, especially for startups. People are cautious about investing in new, unproven businesses. PR consistently generates positive media coverage, fostering reliability and credibility, which is essential for attracting customers and investors.Many startups need external investment for growth. Good PR highlights a startup’s potential, showcases its value, and puts it on investors’ radars. A positive public image increases attractiveness to potential backers. PR enables startups to establish their founders and key executives as thought leaders and experts in their respective fields. By leveraging PR channels, such as speaking engagements, industry conferences, and bylined articles, startups can share their insights, knowledge, and vision with a wider audience. This can enhance the startup's credibility, create trust, and attract attention from investors seeking innovative and knowledgeable entrepreneurs.Parallelly, startups need to be cognizant of crises-led situations that can arise – whether from a product, a social media blunder, negative reviews, etc. Effective PR helps manage these situations, minimizing damage and maintaining reputation. Founders and teams need to understand and rely on the role of PR in their business.How do you navigate the challenges of managing communications for both domestic and international audiences, considering the diverse cultural and market dynamics?Just like any business, or startup, understanding the market is crucial to make an impact. Managing communications for both domestic and international audiences while considering diverse cultural and market dynamics can be challenging. There is a growing need to understand the cultural nuances, preferences, and even communication styles of audiences. I recollect one time in an internal team meeting, in an international market, a colleague’s idea, though with an honest intent, was shot down within seconds, because it lacked cultural sensitivity. While dealing with varied audiences, we need to be aware of etiquettes, taboos, cultural sensitivities to say the least to avoid potential misunderstandings or offense. Adapting your messaging and communication approach to align with cultural norms can help build trust and resonate with diverse audiences.Localizing content also works, to make it relevant and appealing. This includes translating your materials into different languages, adapting visuals, and tailoring messaging to reflect local customs, preferences, and market dynamics. Working with local experts or agencies who have a deep understanding of the target market to ensure accuracy and cultural appropriateness is beneficial to making correct impressions.For many markets, English may not be the first language. Utilizing multilingual communication channels, and providing content and support in the local language can enhance the user experience. For many campaigns, I have relied on local partners or media outlets to provide valuable insights. Always seeking feedback and adapting to varied styles should be inculcated in teams, as they progress together.Last but not the least, we need to listen more than talk or express, while working with diverse audiences because active listening and adaptability are key. By investing in research, localization, and understanding cultural contexts, we have navigated the challenges of managing communications for both domestic and international audiences, fostering meaningful connections and driving engagement across diverse markets.As VP of Technology & Startups, what strategies do you employ to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within Concept PR India Ltd and among your clients?PR has come a long way, and in its evolution, PR professionals have increasingly realized that it is not just media coverage, but an overall brand strategy emphasizing brand equity. It is with campaigns that resonate with the audience contributing to long-term success. That also indicates that we need to think about the whole spectrum and bring in synergies with functions like advertising, social media, and content creation for a more holistic approach.Whether external or internal, we constantly train to dig deep to find opportunities where others may see challenges. There are conversations to innovate by identifying unique angles, untapped markets, or unconventional channels. Sometimes, the most impactful PR campaigns emerge from unexpected places. While media coverage remains essential, our clients and internal teams leverage social media, influence partnerships, and get involved with direct communications with stakeholders. We also realize that not all conversations will result in tangible outcomes, so increasing focus is also on whether we moved the needle, even if it was an intangible outcome.We have embraced data-driven insights, monitored online sentiment, and adapted strategies accordingly. Each of the team members is tasked with a question or an assignment to think differently, and innovatively to achieve positive attention. There is on-ground training and assessment when they are tasked with new business conversations to test their entrepreneurial skills. They have shadowed me at most meetings to learn the ropes. New training, new skill acquisition, and constant learning are part of my team’s professional lives.Could you share a memorable experience or achievement from your career that you are particularly proud of, and how it has shaped your approach to communications and technology?As I mentioned earlier, I got the opportunity to work with Amazon Web Services, I was their first PR hire in India. My first assignment was to launch the AWS India Region within a steep time frame. Everything about the period leading to the launch - including working on the PR strategy, internal team for customer speak, analysts, partners, and startups – is memorable to me! My experience is a combination of what makes a successful campaign – right from team collaboration to joint goals, always putting the customer ahead, making the right choices, resulting in smiling faces, a sense of pride, and exhaustion with contentment. Rightfully, those learnings have helped me to understand customer asks today.As we completed the 3-city conference with Andy Jassy, we realized that India had topped the charts globally with the kind of media attention generated in that week and that was truly an achievement. A global award followed later in the coming months, but even today, thinking about that time makes me smile and I wish, every PR professional gets such experience at least once in their lifetime.The bulk of my learnings in the past two decades are my north star, personally!Limited Resources: Startups often operate with limited financial resources, which can make it challenging to attract investors, develop their products or services, and scale their operations. Mentors can help startups identify creative solutions, optimize resource allocation, and explore alternative funding options.Market Validation: Startups need to demonstrate the viability and potential of their business ideas to investors. Market validation involves conducting market research, gathering customer feedback, and proving that there is a demand for their product or service. Mentors can guide startups in refining their value proposition, identifying target markets, and validating their business models.Networking and Relationship Building: Building relationships with potential investors, industry experts, and strategic partners is crucial for startups. However, establishing these connections can be a challenge, especially for early-stage startups without an extensive network. Mentors can provide guidance on networking strategies, making introductions, and leveraging existing connections.Pitching and Communication: Startups need to effectively communicate their vision, value proposition, and growth potential to investors. Crafting a compelling pitch that captures the attention and interest of potential investors requires strong storytelling and presentation skills. Mentors can assist startups in refining their pitch, providing feedback, and improving their communication abilities.Competitive Landscape: Startups often operate in highly competitive markets, which can present challenges in differentiating themselves and securing funding. Mentors can help startups analyze their competition, identify unique selling points, and develop strategies to stand out in the market.Managing Growth: Rapid growth can bring its own set of challenges for startups. Scaling operations, managing cash flow, hiring and retaining talent, and maintaining a strong company culture become critical as startups accelerate their growth. Mentors can provide guidance on growth strategies, operational efficiencies, and talent acquisition.Regulatory and Legal Compliance: Startups need to navigate various regulatory and legal requirements, which can be complex and time-consuming. Lack of compliance can hinder funding opportunities or even lead to legal issues. Mentors can help startups understand and navigate the regulatory landscape, connect them with legal experts, and ensure compliance.These challenges require a combination of strategic thinking, perseverance, adaptability, and mentorship. While mentors can provide valuable guidance and support, it’s important for startups to proactively seek knowledge, network, and continuously learn from their experiences to overcome these challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Omnicom agency Oliver Schrott Kommunikation (OSK), a leading German PR and communications firm, today announced a leadership transition. Founder Oliver Schrott, (pictured above), will step down as CEO after 31 years at the helm. Succeeding him will be Christoph Horn, a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience in the automotive and mobility sectors.Schrott will continue to play a valuable role at OSK in the newly established position of non-executive chairman, ensuring a smooth transition and leveraging his vast industry knowledge.Christoph Horn joins OSK from global automotive supplier ZF Group, where he served as SVP of corporate communications. Throughout his 30-year career, Horn has held prominent communications positions at Ford, General Motors, Opel, and Daimler AG, including seven years leading global communications for Mercedes-Benz.Horn expressed his excitement about leading OSK, acknowledging the firm's impressive track record and commitment to innovation. "OSK's ability to stay ahead of the curve through its specialized services and willingness to embrace new ideas makes it an ideal fit for me," he said. "I'm honored to take on this leadership role and serve OSK's clients, its dedicated team, and the broader Omnicom network."Oliver Schrott praised Horn's qualifications and expressed his confidence in the future of OSK. "Christoph is the perfect successor to lead OSK," Schrott stated. "He represents both continuity and the potential for further growth, especially during this period of rapid change within the industry. We share a strong work ethic, high standards, and a passion for pushing boundaries. I look forward to supporting Christoph, the OSK management team, and the entire agency in my new role."Horn will assume leadership alongside COO Michael Kemme and CFO Marc Wolter, both longstanding members of OSK's management team.Headquartered in Cologne with offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, New York, and Beijing, OSK employs approximately 250 communications specialists.

Authored By Shiva Bhavani Founder and CEO, Wing CommunicationsIn the dynamic landscape of today's business world, crisis management has emerged as a critical lifeline for protecting and preserving the integrity of a brand. Effective crisis management is not just about mitigating damage in the moment but also about foreseeing potential crises and preparing accordingly. This comprehensive analysis delves into the essence of crisis management in public relations, equipped with relevant facts, data points, statistics, and insights from credible sources.The Imperative of Crisis ManagementCrisis management in PR is the strategic handling of unexpected and potentially damaging events that can affect an organisation's reputation, operations, or financial stability. According to a Deloitte study, 90% of businesses that have a crisis management plan in place report being able to tackle crisis effectively, demonstrating the critical role of preparedness in crisis management.Understanding the Types of CrisesCrises can vary in nature and origin, including natural disasters, technological failures, legal issues, or public relations blunders. The Institute for Crisis Management's annual report classifies crises into several categories, noting that in 2023, digital crises (stemming from cyberattacks, data breaches, and online defamation) represented over 40% of all business crises, highlighting the growing need for digital vigilance.The Role of PR in Crisis ManagementPublic Relations plays a pivotal role in managing a crisis by communicating with stakeholders, media, and the public. Effective communication can mitigate the negative impacts of a crisis, preserve stakeholder trust, and even turn a potential disaster into an opportunity for brand strengthening. A survey by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) found that transparent communication during a crisis leads to a 20% increase in stakeholder trust.Pre-Crisis PreparationThe foundation of effective crisis management is thorough preparation before a crisis hits. This involves risk assessment, crisis plan development, and training. A study by the Harvard Business Review emphasizes the importance of scenario planning, noting that companies that regularly engage in scenario planning are 45% more effective in crisis management.Crisis Response StrategiesWhen a crisis occurs, the response must be swift, strategic, and sensitive to the concerns of all stakeholders. The Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) suggests tailoring response strategies to the type of crisis, emphasizing the need for apology and corrective action in cases of preventable crises. A Forbes Insights survey reveals that 58% of executives consider timely response and transparent communication as the most critical factors in successful crisis management.Post-Crisis Analysis and RecoveryAfter navigating a crisis, analyzing the response's effectiveness and implementing recovery strategies is crucial. This includes reviewing what was done right or wrong, what could be improved, and how to better prepare for future crises. According to McKinsey, organizations that conduct post-crisis analyses and adapt their crisis management plans accordingly reduce the impact of future crises by up to 30%.The Importance of Digital and Social MediaIn the age of digital media, managing a brand's online reputation has become a key component of crisis management. A report by Edelman shows that 65% of consumers form their opinion about a brand during a crisis based on online information. This underscores the importance of actively monitoring and managing social media and online platforms as part of a comprehensive crisis management strategy.Lessons from Success and FailureAnalyzing real-life crisis management cases provides valuable lessons. For instance, the effective crisis handling by Johnson & Johnson during the Tylenol tampering scare in the 1980s is often cited as a textbook example of crisis management done right, leading to the introduction of tamper-evident packaging. Conversely, the initial denial by BP during the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill worsened the crisis, demonstrating the negative consequences of poor crisis communication.ConclusionCrisis management is an indispensable aspect of public relations that safeguards a brand's reputation and longevity. Through meticulous preparation, strategic response, and thorough post-crisis analysis, organizations can navigate the choppy waters of crises with resilience and poise. This analysis, supported by facts, statistics, and insights from credible sources, underscores the value of integrating effective crisis management practices into the PR toolkit. As the business environment continues to evolve, so too must the strategies employed to protect and preserve the brand's integrity in the face of crisis.DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and Adgully.com does not necessarily subscribe to it.

The Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WICCI) Public Relations and Digital Marketing Council, a platform dedicated to fostering professional development for women in communications, concluded the first event in Delhi that brought diverse voices from the industry to spotlight the transformative roles women play in shaping the future of communications.The event explored the multifaceted roles that women play in shaping the narrative and dynamics within the communications industry, timed to celebrate Women’s History Month 2024. The panel was designed to include leaders from PR consultancies, corporate communications and media across age groups, especially the voice of young women leaders. The illustrious panel included:Archana Jain, CEO, PR Pundit Havas RedNikhil Dey, Executive Director, Adfactors PRVandana Chopra, Head – Brand and Communications, KPMG in IndiaNafisa Shaheen, Head- PR and Marketing, Globale MediaThe discussion was moderated by Ritu Bararia, National President, WICCI PR and Digital Marketing Council. This is the first in the series of events in Delhi and Mumbai designed to foster insightful discussions, facilitate professional networking, and highlight the significant contributions of women in the realms of PR and digital marketing.WICCI PR and Digital Marketing Council conducted the campaign "#SheMeansBusiness" in celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, aligned with the global theme for International Women's Day, "Count Her In: Invest in Her. Accelerate Progress". Under the campaign, a survey was conducted with over 100 women professionals in communications working at multiple levels across the country. The results revealed that microaggressions, biased hiring practices and lack of leadership training programmes are some of the key barriers faced by women working in the Indian communications industry.

Sophie Raine, previously the managing director of consumer brands at Ketchum London, has taken on the role of managing director at Havas Red in London. With four years of experience leading UK consumer PR at Ketchum UK and prior experience as the deputy managing director at W Communications, Raine brings a wealth of expertise to her new position.In her new role, Raine will oversee the growth, new business initiatives, and overall client experience at Havas Red's London office. She will report directly to Rachael Sansom, the Europe and UK chief executive, and will collaborate with prominent clients such as American Express and Jaguar Land Rover. Raine's appointment follows the departure of Richard Clarke, who is transitioning to a new role within the Havas Creative Group in Australia.Expressing her enthusiasm for her new role, Raine emphasized the vibrant atmosphere within Havas Red and the broader Havas Village in London. She praised the agency's achievements since its establishment in 2019 and highlighted her alignment with the team's dedication to the craft of earned media. Additionally, Raine's involvement with the Women in PR committee over the past three years and her recognition as one of Campaign's 40 over 40 in 2023 underscore her industry leadership.Rachael Sansom commended Raine's appointment, noting her outstanding qualifications and proven track record. While bidding farewell to Richard Clarke, Sansom expressed confidence in Raine's ability to lead the next phase of Havas Red's growth in the UK. Sansom herself was promoted to her current role in October the previous year.Havas Red was established in 2019 through the merger of Havas PR in the UK with counterparts in the US and Australia's Red Agency. With 23 offices worldwide, including nine in Europe, Havas Red has positioned itself as a significant player in the global agency landscape.

9Yards Communications has emerged victorious as the integrated marcoms agency of choice for Shekh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). Furthermore, this partnership marks a significant milestone in the reimagining and shaping of the brand, narrative, and vision of one of the UAE’s most respected medical institutions for serious and complex health care.As a result, 9Yards will now provide SSMC with a comprehensive suite of marcoms services, including strategic communications, creative and advertising, PR, digital marketing, and multi-media production.Expressing his delight at the SSMC-9Yards partnership, Hussam Almulhem, CEO of 9Yards Communications, said: "We are thrilled to be appointed as SSMC’s agency of choice and this win underscores the time, effort, and dedication of our talented team in delivering an exceptional response to the client’s brief. We now look forward to taking SSMC's already significant brand presence to the next level.”

Global PR agency Havas Red has strengthened its presence in Africa by opening an office in Côte d'Ivoire, its second on the continent.Seasoned Havas Red leader Aurélie Jarry takes the helm as Managing Director for the new operation, Havas Red Ivory Coast. Jarry brings over ten years of experience with the agency, most recently overseeing the West Africa region.The Ivorian office will offer the full spectrum of Havas Red's services, catering to clients in health and wellness, corporate PR and reputation management, technology and e-commerce, consumer and lifestyle, automotive and mobility, travel and hospitality, and even employee engagement and internal communications.This expansion follows Havas Red's initial foray into Africa with the Johannesburg office launch last September. The Côte d'Ivoire addition, coupled with the November acquisition of Indian firm PR Pundit, brings the agency's global network to 18 markets.“Bigger, better, bolder — and more borderless — that’s how Havas Red continues to grow each year. Opening up shop in South Africa last year was a big step for us into an exciting region, and now we’re ready to grow our footprint into West Africa, where our Havas colleagues have already been doing groundbreaking work with iconic clients on the Ivory Coast who are also looking for PR and social support,” said James Wright, global CEO of Havas Red and global chairman of the Havas PR Network.

PR veteran Tim Sutton has joined W Communications as chairman to spearhead the UK firm's expansion into issues and crisis management.Sutton brings extensive experience to the role, having held non-executive positions after a successful 16-year career at Weber Shandwick. He will provide strategic guidance and support W's growth, particularly in its corporate offering focused on thought leadership and global events.Sutton is known for award-winning campaigns and leadership in areas like corporate affairs and deregulation. He expressed admiration for W's founder and the firm's creative approach to communications, highlighting the potential for W to excel in corporate communications.W Communications founder Warren Johnson praised Sutton's experience and leadership. He emphasized Sutton's value as an advisor and his expertise in corporate issues management, which aligns with W's evolving client needs.

The Folio Society, the London-based publisher of illustrated hardback books, has announced Diffusion as its new agency of record for public relations. This strategic partnership will elevate awareness of Folio's commitment to transforming classic, contemporary, and children's literature into beautifully crafted works of art.Diffusion will spearhead a multi-faceted campaign encompassing media relations, product seeding, and curated book launches. This approach aims to not only showcase the exquisite design and craftsmanship that define every Folio Society book, but also illuminate the company's dedication to sustainable practices as a certified B Corporation."Our books are a labor of love, meticulously crafted to be both aesthetically pleasing and a joy to read," states Joanna Reynolds, CEO of The Folio Society. "In an age dominated by digital experiences, we remain committed to the enduring value of tangible, beautifully crafted books. Diffusion's proven track record in understanding consumer mindsets and meticulous attention to detail make them the ideal partner to connect us with those who cherish the art of exquisite books."Founded in 1947, The Folio Society is an independent, employee-owned company with a rich history of publishing excellence. Diffusion's expertise will further amplify this legacy, ensuring a wider audience appreciates the unique value proposition of Folio Society books.

WE Communications, a leading independent global communications agency, today announced new regional leadership appointments that showcase the agency’s continued commitment to driving overall growth across the EMEA region, which had double-digit growth last year. Daniel Blank has been elevated to head of integrated marketing, EMEA, and Jasmin Athwal to head of growth and business development, EMEA.“WE’s EMEA region has experienced strong performance over the past few years, and our business is ready for additional cross-regional leadership that will continue our positive trajectory,” said Kass Sells, WE’s CEO of international. “Daniel and Jasmin have proven track records of driving results and will be an unstoppable pair when it comes to leading WE into this next chapter.”Under his new remit, Blank will be responsible for driving the agency’s creative and digital work across all EMEA markets. He will manage a team of more than 35 specialists spanning client capabilities that include insights and analytics, creative concepting, design, social media, paid media and content production. Prior to this, Blank served as deputy managing director of WE’s Germany office for six years. Throughout his career of more than 25 years, he has partnered with many multinational brands across the technology, healthcare, consumer products and sustainability sectors.“Clients today rightfully expect seamlessly integrated campaigns and 360-degree digital servicing from their agency partners,” said Sells. “By bringing together a cross-regional team, WE will further increase its creative diversity, quality and scalability for the brands with which we partner.”Athwal is charged with leading new business and marketing, including the development and implementation of a growth strategy across WE’s German, U.K. and South African operations that fuels cross-regional collaboration and integration. She will collaborate closely with local market leadership to drive client acquisition across WE’s key sectors of health, technology and consumer. Athwal most recently was senior director, technology at WE, where she provided counsel to B2B executive leaders on strategic communications and media relations, supporting the growth of WE’s largest clients in the EMEA region.WE’s EMEA Region experienced more than 14% growth in the last calendar year and represents clients that include Forest Stewardship Council, Honeywell and Microsoft.Athwal is based in London, and Blank is based in Munich. Both will continue to report to Sells.

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has acquired Unlimited, the award-winning integrated customer engagement agency, which will become part of Accenture Song—the world’s largest tech-powered creative group. The acquisition will enhance Accenture Song’s ability to scale its offerings and unlock greater value from generative AI. With deep expertise in behavioral science, customer strategy and CRM activation, the acquisition of Unlimited further bolsters Accenture Song's capabilities to drive marketing transformation, relevance, and growth for its clients.Unlimited, which has earned over 100 industry awards, comprises of TMW, Walnut, Health Unlimited and Nelson Bostock. Unlimited places data and a deep understanding of human behavior at the core of its offering through its proprietary Human Understanding Lab & AI-powered digital insights platform LUCA, complementing Accenture Song's existing capabilities in data and analytics.Dame Annette King, global lead, marketing practice, Accenture Song, said: “There are few agencies that have proven to be as impressive as Unlimited over the last few years. The world of CRM is more crucial to brands than ever before and there is no greater partner for it than generative AI-powered creativity. We’re excited to welcome the team into the Accenture Song fold and most importantly, we can’t wait for the opportunities that now exist for our clients and talent.”Sohel Aziz, UK, Ireland and Africa lead, Accenture Song said: “We’re delighted to welcome Unlimited into Accenture Song. We have a shared vision for the future of CRM combined with the power of generative AI to enable the delivery of ever more relevant and impactful customer experience. Our values are wholly aligned, and we look forward to creating value and growth for our clients together.”The acquisition of Unlimited is the latest in a series of continued investments by Accenture Song to drive growth for its clients amid rapidly evolving business landscapes and consumer behaviour, following the acquisitions of GemSeek, Mindcurv, Work & Co, Rabbit’s Tale, ConcentricLife, Fiftyfive5 and The Stable.Headquartered in London, with additional locations in Bristol, Winchester and Reading, Unlimited’s nearly 600 employees will join Accenture Song’s UK team aligned to the marketing practice under Bill Scott, marketing practice lead, UK, Ireland and Africa, Accenture Song.Chris Mellish, CEO Unlimited Group said: “To be joining such an ambitious and forward-thinking strategic organization is a massive moment for us. We have found a home where both our people and our clients can continue to thrive in an organization that has its eye towards shaping the future of our industry. We can’t wait to see the positive impact we’ll be able to make on our clients together.”Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.Forward-Looking StatementsExcept for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “likely,” “anticipates,” “aspires,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,” “estimates,” “positioned,” “outlook,” “goal,” “target” and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance nor promises that goals or targets will be met, and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied.These risks include, without limitation, risks that: the transaction might not achieve the anticipated benefits for Accenture; Accenture’s results of operations have been, and may in the future be, adversely affected by volatile, negative or uncertain economic and political conditions and the effects of these conditions on the company’s clients’ businesses and levels of business activity; Accenture’s business depends on generating and maintaining client demand for the company’s services and solutions including through the adaptation and expansion of its services and solutions in response to ongoing changes in technology and offerings, and a significant reduction in such demand or an inability to respond to the evolving technological environment could materially affect the company’s results of operations; if Accenture is unable to match people and their skills with client demand around the world and attract and retain professionals with strong leadership skills, the company’s business, the utilization rate of the company’s professionals and the company’s results of operations may be materially adversely affected; Accenture faces legal, reputational and financial risks from any failure to protect client and/or company data from security incidents or cyberattacks; the markets in which Accenture operates are highly competitive, and Accenture might not be able to compete effectively; Accenture’s ability to attract and retain business and employees may depend on its reputation in the marketplace; if Accenture does not successfully manage and develop its relationships with key ecosystem partners or fails to anticipate and establish new alliances in new technologies, the company’s results of operations could be adversely affected; Accenture’s profitability could materially suffer if the company is unable to obtain favourable pricing for its services and solutions, if the company is unable to remain competitive, if its cost-management strategies are unsuccessful or if it experiences delivery inefficiencies or fail to satisfy certain agreed-upon targets or specific service levels; changes in Accenture’s level of taxes, as well as audits, investigations and tax proceedings, or changes in tax laws or in their interpretation or enforcement, could have a material adverse effect on the company’s effective tax rate, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition; Accenture’s results of operations could be materially adversely affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; changes to accounting standards or in the estimates and assumptions Accenture makes in connection with the preparation of its consolidated financial statements could adversely affect its financial results; as a result of Accenture’s geographically diverse operations and strategy to continue to grow in key markets around the world, the company is more susceptible to certain risks; if Accenture is unable to manage the organizational challenges associated with its size, the company might be unable to achieve its business objectives; Accenture might not be successful at acquiring, investing in or integrating businesses, entering into joint ventures or divesting businesses; Accenture’s business could be materially adversely affected if the company incurs legal liability; Accenture’s global operations expose the company to numerous and sometimes conflicting legal and regulatory requirements; Accenture’s work with government clients exposes the company to additional risks inherent in the government contracting environment; if Accenture is unable to protect or enforce its intellectual property rights or if Accenture’s services or solutions infringe upon the intellectual property rights of others or the company loses its ability to utilize the intellectual property of others, its business could be adversely affected; Accenture may be subject to criticism and negative publicity related to its incorporation in Ireland; as well as the risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed under the “Risk Factors” heading in Accenture plc’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this news release speak only as of the date they were made, and Accenture undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements made in this news release or to conform such statements to actual results or changes in Accenture’s expectations.

DJE Holdings has launched RUTH, a new independent global communications agency.RUTH is named after Ruth Edelman, the cherished wife and business partner of DJE founder Daniel J. Edelman. The agency operates alongside established giants Edelman and Zeno, but with a distinct focus on providing fresh, innovative solutions to clients."The need for a third agency has been on our radar for a while," says DJE Holdings Chairman Richard Edelman. RUTH caters to clients seeking independent yet DJE family-connected expertise. It also serves as a tribute to Richard's mother, "an integral part of DJE's success story."Rana Komar, a DJE alumna with over 20 years of experience, takes the helm as RUTH's president. Komar emphasizes her connection to Ruth Edelman's legacy and vows to uphold her values of courage, hard work, and optimism.Renée Edelman joins as RUTH's Honorary Chairwoman, while remaining Senior Vice President at Edelman. Her involvement ensures the agency upholds her mother's core values, particularly mental health advocacy.RUTH's launch not only honours Ruth Edelman's legacy, but also positions DJE Holdings for continued innovation and prominence in the global communications landscape.

Authored by Shiva BhavaniCrafting a PR strategy that aligns perfectly with your brand's vision is crucial for building a strong brand identity, engaging effectively with your audience, and achieving long-term success in today's competitive market. This comprehensive guide delves into the essentials of developing a PR strategy that not only complements but also amplifies your brand vision, backed by relevant facts, data points, statistics, and insights from reliable sources.Understanding Your Brand VisionYour brand vision is the foundation upon which your PR strategy should be built. It reflects your company's long-term objectives, values, and the impact you wish to have on your customers and the wider community. A study by the Harvard Business Review highlighted the importance of aligning your brand's vision with your business strategies, noting that companies that successfully align their vision with their strategic planning are 1.5 times more likely to achieve above-average financial performance than those that do not.Setting Clear PR ObjectivesThe first step in aligning your PR strategy with your brand vision is to set clear, measurable objectives. These objectives should directly support your brand's overall goals and could range from increasing brand awareness and improving public perception to driving engagement and sales. According to a report by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives is critical for the success of any PR campaign.Identifying Your Target AudienceUnderstanding your target audience is pivotal. A deep analysis of your audience's demographics, interests, and behavior patterns enables you to tailor your PR messages and mediums effectively. The Nielsen Global Trust in Advertising Report reveals that messages tailored to specific audience preferences can increase brand trust by up to 83%.Crafting a Consistent MessageConsistency in your messaging is key to reinforcing your brand identity and vision. Your PR communications should consistently reflect your brand's values, tone, and personality across all channels. A study by Lucidpress indicates that consistent brand presentation across all platforms can increase revenue by up to 23%.Leveraging the Right ChannelsChoosing the right channels to disseminate your PR messages is crucial. Whether it's traditional media, social media, or digital platforms, selecting channels that your target audience frequents ensures your message is heard. According to the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer, trust in traditional media has risen to 61%, making it a significant channel for PR strategies aimed at establishing credibility and trust.Engaging with MediaBuilding and maintaining relationships with the media is essential for getting your PR messages out effectively. Press releases, media pitches, and press events should be crafted carefully to grab attention and provide value to journalists. Data from Muck Rack's State of Journalism report highlights that 65% of journalists view the relevance of a pitch to their beat as the most critical factor in their decision to cover a story.Measuring SuccessTo ensure your PR strategy is effectively aligned with your brand vision, it's essential to measure its success. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as media coverage, social media engagement, website traffic, and brand sentiment can provide valuable insights into the impact of your PR efforts. A survey by the Institute for Public Relations found that 88% of PR professionals believe measurement and evaluation are crucial components of PR success.Staying Agile and AdaptableThe market and media landscape are constantly evolving, making it necessary for brands to remain agile and adaptable in their PR strategies. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your strategy in response to feedback, market trends, and performance data ensures your PR efforts remain aligned with your brand vision and objectives.ConclusionDeveloping a PR strategy that aligns with your brand vision requires a deep understanding of your brand's core values and objectives, a clear definition of your target audience, consistent messaging, strategic channel selection, media engagement, and ongoing measurement and adjustment. By following these guidelines and leveraging relevant facts, data points, statistics, and insights, you can craft a PR strategy that not only resonates with your audience but also drives your brand toward achieving its long-term goals and vision. In an era where brand perception can significantly impact success, a well-aligned PR strategy is not just an option; it's a necessity. 

In the high-octane world of marketing, Public Relations (PR) often plays a vital role. It shapes brand perception, cultivates positive media coverage, and fosters valuable relationships with stakeholders. But unlike flashy ad campaigns or targeted social media blitzes, PR's impact can be subtle yet significant. The challenge? Isolating and measuring its success amidst a symphony of marketing efforts. The third and final part of this series dives into the strategies PR professionals use to quantify their contributions, proving the power of strategic communication in today's dynamic marketing landscape.Jyotsna Dash Nanda, AVP, Corporate Communications, DS Group, feels that isolating the specific impact of PR campaigns within a broader marketing mix can be challenging. However, she adds, several methods can help PR professionals measure their contribution. One approach, according to her, is to utilize marketing mix modeling (MMM) which employs statistical techniques to quantify the independent effect of each marketing channel, including PR, on sales or other key metrics (Farris et al., 2010).<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\a379b77727dbfd4a27395d5d756dfe43.png' class='content_image'>“PR professionals can also track campaign-specific metrics like brand mentions with positive sentiment before, during, and after the campaign to isolate its influence (Kitchen et al., 2017). Additionally, utilizing unique UTM parameters (Urchin Tracking Module) in press releases or social media posts linked to PR efforts allows for tracking website traffic specifically driven by the campaign (Smith, 2020). By employing a combination of these methods, PR professionals can gain a clearer picture of their campaigns' impact within the wider marketing ecosystem.”ReferencesFarris, P. W., Bendle, N. T., Pfeifer, P. E., & Reibstein, D. J. (2010). Marketing metrics: The definitive guide to measuring marketing performance. Prentice Hall.Kitchen, P., Schultz, D. E., & Vance, C. (2017). Measuring public relations: Techniques and applications. Routledge.Smith, P. (2020). UTM parameters: The ultimate guide for marketers. Search Engine Land: https://stackoverflow.com/questions/61640592/how-to-pass-the-search-query-to-the-landing-page-url-of-a-google-ads-searchIn an increasingly converging and integrated communication universe, this could be challenging and the metrics do overlap at times, observes Sumathi Chari, Sr. Partner & Director, PRHUB. "Having said that, public relations (PR) fundamentally revolves around storytelling. It gains traction naturally when shared by impartial voices unconnected to the brand or its campaigns. Therefore, the extent to which we can cultivate and attract attention through compelling narratives will consistently serve as a pivotal and unique metric for evaluation," she says.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\f7ba3a63fcfb8ef976744348b2649ad0.png' class='content_image'>First and foremost, says Siddhartha Mukherjee, founder of Brand Balance, PR is not limited to supporting the CMO and the marketing team of the organisation alone. According to him, its capability and the real scope of work are much larger and more complex. In fact, he adds, the actual capability of what PR is meant to do gets amplified when PR works with the CEO and all other CXOs. Hence, PR does not just work for the marketing of products or services of a brand alone but also the employer brand, investor brand, vendor and partner brand, government brand, and so on.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\8cbbe92ceca4e5ebfb9f5b8e5b29f21b.png' class='content_image'>“Talking specifically about measurement in marketing campaigns, it is first important to understand PR's amazing potential to strengthen the marketing campaigns across the pre, during, and Post phases. In fact, if one studies the data of various marketing campaigns across industries, it will be observed that very few have made judicious use of PR in all three phases across pre, during, and post. In most of the cases, PR's recall by the marketing team has been at the 11th hour, and therefore, its intervention got restricted to 'during' or the ‘launch’ or ‘announcement’ phase only. If PR is leveraged properly with scientific ERPs - efforts, resources, and processes, its measurement will reveal amazing results in the outcome stage of the measurement framework. Paid and earned stimuli can be separately linked with the strengthening of brand recall and engagement scores,” Mukherjee explains.Beyond ROI: Exploring Vital Metrics in MeasurementIn the realm of PR, measuring success extends far beyond the traditional confines of Return on Investment (ROI). While ROI serves as a crucial indicator of financial performance, it often fails to capture the full spectrum of PR's impact on brand reputation, audience engagement, and overall organisational goals. In the multifaceted landscape of PR metrics, it is important dive into alternative benchmarks that hold equal significance in assessing campaign efficacy. By understanding the importance of these metrics, PR professionals can craft more comprehensive strategies and demonstrate the true value of their efforts to stakeholders.While ROI remains a key performance indicator, PR success extends beyond the bottom line, says Jyotsna Dash Nanda. “Measuring media reach, sentiment analysis, social engagement, and website traffic paint a more comprehensive picture. These metrics reveal brand visibility, audience perception, and the impact of PR efforts on business objectives.”According to Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus PR, while measuring success, PR professionals can also add these to the report to add additional layers:Social Media TrafficDigital Platform AnalyticsGoogle AnalyticsWebsite TrafficMarket ResearchOnline Listening Reports“Each of these metrics serves as an indicator of the reputation the PR team strives to cultivate for the brand. The availability of comprehensive data allows for thorough analysis, empowering the team to leverage insights effectively and demonstrate the tangible impact of PR efforts. However, challenges arise when data is scarce or inaccessible, compounded by limited resources for investing in necessary tools. In such scenarios, the team may find themselves reliant solely on media coverage to justify their presence and contributions, highlighting the critical importance of accessible data and adequate support for achieving ROI goals,” says Rattan. <img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\e82aa403b495c06e50a425187f67245a.png' class='content_image'>Like other forms of communication, PR too, can never lay its claim on ROI (transaction), says Siddhartha Mukherjee.“However, it can and should claim its stake in ROO (Returns of Objective); in other words, measurement data that showcase change of thinking within target audiences. To achieve ROO as the outcome, the entire PR Measurement framework - INPUT-OUTPUT-OUTCOME - needs to be strengthened and leveraged very efficiently. Each block of Input, Output, and Outcome will need to have an intricate series of metrics. To sprinkle a few - a) PR Input should work towards balancing and target setting metrics such as reach, frequency, sustenance, emotion, multimedia, etc. b) preference for monthly as against quarterly planning cycle c) junking the AVE cancer d) To evaluate the visibility quotient, preference for holistic index scores as against count of articles or space...and so on,” Mukherjee explains.(Concluded)Read the first two parts here: https://theprpost.com/post/6208/beyond-buzz-why-traditional-pr-metrics-dont-tell-the-whole-story-part-1https://theprpost.com/post/6218/beyond-likes-and-shares-measuring-prs-impact-in-the-age-of-ai-part-2

8020 Communications, a specialist PR and digital marketing agency focused on the aviation, travel, and mobility sectors, has named Jim Donaldson as its first non-executive director. Donaldson, a highly respected figure in the communications industry, brings a wealth of experience to the role.Donaldson previously served as the CEO of FleishmanHillard's UK and Middle East operations until January 2024. He is a recognized leader, having been awarded the prestigious PRovoke Media Individual Achievement SABRE award this year. He also holds non-executive positions at Instinctif and Woodrow.At 8020 Communications, Donaldson will collaborate closely with founder and CEO Marc Cornelius and the senior leadership team. His expertise will be instrumental in accelerating the agency's growth and capitalizing on its strengths within the aviation, travel, and mobility industries. He will play a key role in shaping strategies for expansion, development of new services, international growth, and talent development.Founded in 2008, 8020 boasts a team of 18 specialists who deliver impactful PR and digital marketing campaigns for a diverse range of clients, including B2B, B2C, and corporate audiences. Their impressive track record includes Etihad Airways, Port of Dover, Expedia, Jetcraft, Textron Aviation, American Express Global Business Travel, and Scott Dunn.“I've had the pleasure of knowing Jim for many years," said Cornelius. "His proven ability to build high-performing teams and foster environments where agencies excel is truly impressive. We're incredibly fortunate to have someone of his caliber and extensive experience guide us through this exciting next chapter for 8020.""We share a common vision of delivering exceptional client experiences, fostering positive and stimulating work environments, and recognizing the immense potential for specialized agencies like ours, particularly in this era of consolidation among larger players," Cornelius continued. "The road ahead is bright, and we're thrilled to have Jim join us on this journey."Donaldson echoed Cornelius' enthusiasm, stating, "Marc and I go back a long way, having started our careers together at Burson-Marsteller in the early 1990s. Our paths have crossed numerous times since then, and I'm incredibly impressed by the team he's built, the agency's reputation, and the impact they've made over the past few years. I'm excited for this opportunity to collaborate again and contribute to the continued success of this fantastic agency."The appointment of Donaldson follows the recent addition of Julia Farish, who joined 8020 Communications from IHG Hotels & Resorts to bolster their hospitality expertise.

Tinder has chosen The Academy to handle its creative earned media campaigns in the UK market, following a competitive pitch process.Founded by Mitch Kaye and Dan Glover a decade ago, The Academy boasts an impressive client list including Amazon, Disney, and Mastercard. While remaining tight-lipped about the new addition, The Academy is known for its innovative campaigns.Tinder, part of the Match Group, previously partnered with agencies like Weber Shandwick, W Communications, and Ogilvy Paris. Interestingly, Tinder intends to maintain these collaborations for project-based work.The Academy's win comes amidst a period of growth. The agency, a finalist for PRovoke Media's EMEA consumer agency of the year award, saw fee income increase by 9% last year, reaching £6.5 million.This expansion is further reflected in their recent creation of dedicated "columns" within their structure. Sophie Pettifer, who joined in 2016 during the Shine merger, will spearhead an entertainment column. Meanwhile, Sam Beecham, joining in 2017, will lead a newly formed sports column, assuming the title of Head of Sport.

Cara Rich has joined strategic communications firm SEC Newgate as global and Americas chief growth officer.Rich, formerly acting in a similar position at BCW, will oversee all commercial and development activities at the global level while also holding the same position for the Americas from her Washington, D.C. base. This new global growth function will be completed by an additional CGO positions in EMEA within this year and a further one in APAC in 2025, both of which will report to Cara Rich. Cara will report to SEC Newgate CEO Fiorenzo Tagliabue.The initial team to support Cara’s scope in growing SEC Newgate’s capacity of pitching global prospects across its entire footprint will be formed by other senior officers, including the current SEC Newgate Senior Group Marketing manager, Irene Ferrario who is appointed VP Marketing and Partnerships.“I wish the new team good luck and a successful work in this newly created function – SEC Newgate CEO Fiorenzo Tagliabue commented – as we are at the right moment to seize global opportunities as we have the size, the know-how and the positioning to tackle this crucial challenge”. “Cara and the whole growth team – Tagliabue continued – bring the sensitivity and experience we required to complete the last part of our journey to boost organic growth locally, regionally and internationally”“SEC Newgate is establishing a new holding company model with a unique value proposition for global companies and leading organizations that require, not only a global footprint, but a globally connected network of agencies. I’m excited to be part of this next chapter for SEC and delivering best-in-class corporate reputation, public affairs and advocacy solutions for our clients.” – Cara Rich stated.The establishment of the new Chief Growth Officer function adds a final and consistent layer in the Group commercial wise organisation after two other recent initiatives.

Three Cheers PR today announced that it has been named PR agency of record for TINCUP Mountain Whiskey, part of Proximo Spirits' portfolio. The assignment follows the fast-growing alcohol-specialist agency's winning Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey, also owned by Proximo Spirits, after a competitive review last fall.TINCUP takes its inspiration from Tincup, CO, an old mining town in the Rockies named after the old cups the miners would drink from. Its famed TINCUP Original is a blend of high-rye bourbon and a small amount of Colorado single malt whiskey, cut with Rocky Mountain spring water. Another favorite, the TINCUP Adventure Pack, is packaged in double-walled stainless steel and perfect for wherever the adventurous choose to explore. Annual limited releases include a 14-year-old Fourteener bourbon and a 10-year-old bourbon.Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey, the nation's leading and most award-winning American Single Malt whiskey, helped pioneer the now fast-growing category 20 years ago. Originating in Aspen and now distilled in Denver, the 100 percent malted barley whiskey features three core expressions – Original, Blue Peak, and Sherry Cask – along with a robust series of limited-time releases, including Snowflake, an annual distillery exclusive that has fans camping out for days to claim their bottle. Earlier this month, the brand opened Stranahan's Whiskey Lodge, a year-round second home in Aspen where innovative cocktails, pours from rare Lodge- and distillery-only bottles, sumptuous Alpine-inspired bites, and majestic mountain views come together as Aspen's hottest new après ski destination.Three Cheers, a wholly owned subsidiary of 360PR+, is handling communications strategy, earned media and partnerships for TINCUP. The agency also handles fully integrated campaign work for Stranahan's spanning earned media, influencer marketing, social media strategy, content creation, community management and strategic paid support. For earned media and programming within Colorado, Three Cheers is partnering with 360's PROI Worldwide partner in Denver, GFM/CenterTable."Our team is energized by the opportunity to help take these two genuinely original whiskey brands to the next level, especially at a time when brown spirits fans are looking beyond their longtime pours," said Rob Bratskeir, General Manager at Three Cheers. "TINCUP and Stranahan's share our passion for integrated work, and for seeing the consumer from all sides – not only as whiskey drinkers, but also travelers, outdoors enthusiasts and influencers in their own right."

Your brand isn’t what you say it is, it’s what Google says it is.” – Chris Anderson, Former Editor of Wired Magazine. In today’s digital age, maintaining a positive reputation is crucial for businesses across all industries. From managing online reviews to navigating social media controversies, reputation management has become a cornerstone of digital success.As noted by Nico Goghavala, Owner, The Quarter Restaurant, “Online reviews serve as the modern-day word of mouth. Positive reviews act as digital accolades. Conversely, negative reviews can ripple through cyberspace, casting a shadow on an establishment’s reputation and potentially affecting its bottom line”Adgully reached out to some leading industry experts and delved into the strategies, challenges, and innovations driving the field of reputation management in the ever-evolving digital landscape.Sandeepa Santiago, Innovation Architect & Brand Strategist, CommsCredible, remarked, “We live in a world where it is imperative for businesses to build and retain a positive perception online. Each online engagement leaves a trail behind and this determines how well we can be trusted, ultimately leading to our success or failure. Keeping up with the ever evolving digital landscape, understanding the preference and expectations of stakeholders and regularly engaging with them as per your strength and expertise helps build brand reputation and create value proposition. It is equally important for brands to regularly review their content and fine tune it. Any issue, if left unaddressed for a long time, can lead to loss of consumer trust.”According to Xavier Prabhu, Founder & MD, PRHUB, “Reputation economy is hit in the digital age due to the focus on everything short term, transactional, and the pressure to make it of interest to the audience. The purveyors of digital are typically not trained in the rigor of reputational processes. Nor are they looking at consistent narratives which are integral to reputation. What all of this together does is to change the whole reputation paradigm which necessarily may not be the right or best way to head.”Anand Vaidya, General Manager - Marketing & Corporate Communications, WebEngage, noted, “In the digital age, the reputation economy is constructed through online interactions, feedback, and visibility. User-generated content, such as reviews and ratings, shapes perceptions, while social proof through likes and followers influences credibility. Personal branding efforts enhance individual and business reputations, strategically curated for authenticity and resonance. Algorithmic influence further amplifies visibility, with high engagement driving increased influence. Overall, the reputation economy in the digital age relies on transparency, trust, and active management of online presence to thrive in the interconnected digital landscape.”Key challenges faced by businesses in managing their reputation in today’s digital landscapeSpeaking on some of the key challenges faced, Vaidya from WebEngage, said, “Businesses face numerous challenges in managing their reputation in today’s digital landscape. These include navigating the rapid spread of information, responding to viral content and online crises in real-time, and addressing the proliferation of user-generated content across various platforms. Maintaining consistency across multiple channels while adapting to ever-changing algorithms poses a challenge. Additionally, the anonymity of online interactions can lead to misinformation and malicious attacks. Balancing transparency with privacy concerns is crucial. Lastly, ensuring authenticity and trustworthiness amidst a sea of content is an ongoing struggle. Overall, businesses must navigate these challenges to safeguard and enhance their reputation in the digital age.”“Today’s consumers have shorter attention spans, making it challenging for businesses to retain their attention and loyalty, ensure repeatability and maintain continuous positive engagement,” said CommsCredible’s Santiago, adding that consumers do not buy a brand, they buy because they perceive that the brand satisfies their needs the best. It only takes one negative press incident to shift consumer preference elsewhere. Monitoring consumer perceptions and promptly addressing feedback, particularly negative ones, across multiple platforms can post a challenge for brands.Best practices for businesses to effectively build and maintain their reputation onlinePRHUB’s Xavier Prabhu shared, “It is balancing the need to be instant, play to the audience and be there 24x7, while ensuring consistent narratives and other elements of the reputational process are adhered to.”He advised, “Thinking holistically is a good and best practice to start with. Don’t think of any messaging or narrative standalone. See how it will likely play across traditional online and digital platforms. Second would be visual storytelling that is contextual. Third would be usage of technology in the form of tools and last is think long term and qualitative. Don’t chase numbers and virality for the sake of it.”WebEnage’s Vaidya listed the following best practices that businesses can follow to build and maintain their reputation online:Transparency: Be honest and genuine in communication.Consistent Branding: Maintain a cohesive identity across platforms.Engagement: Respond promptly and professionally to feedback.Quality Content: Share valuable, relevant content.Monitor and Manage: Keep track of online mentions and reviews.Build Trust: Cultivate relationships with customers and influencers.Adaptability: Stay updated and adapt to changes in the digital landscape.

In today's data-driven world, public relations (PR) professionals are under increasing pressure to demonstrate the true impact of their campaigns. Gone are the days of relying solely on vanity metrics like follower counts and press mentions. Companies are demanding a more holistic understanding of how PR efforts translate into tangible business results.The second part of this series dives into the exciting realm of emerging metrics and frameworks that are revolutionizing PR measurement. We'll explore innovative approaches that capture a broader picture of PR's influence, encompassing brand sentiment, audience engagement, and ultimately, driving business objectives. We'll also investigate the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in PR measurement, examining how AI can automate tasks, analyze vast datasets, and unlock deeper insights into campaign effectiveness.Forget just counting clips! The new wave of PR measurement goes beyond vanity metrics to understand the true impact of your story, observes Jyotsna Dash Nanda, AVP, Corporate Communications, DS Group.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\1af7160453db4551954a8ff6b6a4516e.png' class='content_image'>Sharing her insights on this, she adds: “With a Media Impact Score that considers journalist clout and publication weight, you can ditch the brag sheet and focus on real influence. A Relevance Index ensures your message resonates with the right audience, while a Rank Index tracks your climb to the top of search results. Engagement metrics show you how your audience is interacting, and Share of Narrative analysis reveals if your brand's story is cutting through the noise. PR measurement should focus on user engagement (clicks, shares, comments), website traffic conversion (sales, sign-ups) driven by PR efforts, and social listening to gauge brand sentiment and identify brand advocates. This data-driven approach demonstrates the true impact of PR on brand perception, audience engagement, and ultimately, business objectives. In today's media landscape, it's not just about getting mentioned, it's about getting heard.”According to her, some emerging frameworks are:AMEC Framework: A widely used model that goes beyond outputs (media placements) to consider outcomes (changes in awareness, perception) and impacts (on business goals).PESO Model: A strategic framework classifying media channels (Paid, Earned, Shared, Owned) to understand how different elements work together to achieve PR goals.RACE Framework: A results-oriented approach focusing on Reach, Act, Convert, and Engage to measure the user journey influenced by PR efforts.According to Jyotsna Dash Nanda, these metrics and frameworks offer a more comprehensive understanding of PR's effectiveness by prioritizing quality over quantity. “They go beyond simply counting media mentions to analyse the influence and relevance of the coverage. Additionally, these methods connect PR efforts directly to business goals by tracking website traffic, lead generation, and ultimately, sales. This data-driven approach also provides valuable insights into audience behaviour, revealing how audiences engage with PR content.”Traditional PR metrics, such as AVE, measuring media articles, brand mentions, or now even “potential reach” and “impressions” in isolation, do not define the actual audience reached or provide any subsequent internal engagement with your organisation, says Anup Sharma, Independent PR & Strategic Communications Consultant.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\e708b698f5e4345815d1a4031057072b.png' class='content_image'>He feels that focusing solely on media measurement provides an incomplete picture. Similarly, he adds, brand awareness cannot be seen as a metric for measuring a PR campaign as it should be viewed as an outcome of effective PR and marketing campaigns.According to him, most media monitoring tools do not integrate traditional media monitoring and social media monitoring, or do a poor job of integration. However, he adds, new platforms can now perform both functions well and integrate different data streams from traditional media, social media, as well as internal communications into a single dashboard.“Engagement metrics tell how the earned content resonates with the target audience and while calculating the same, it's important to also take sentiment analysis into account. With the right success measurements, organisations can refine communication strategies and show exactly how much the PR effort contributes to overall brand success. PR and communication professionals need to take a look at the bigger picture and use other metrics such as brand equity, brand engagement, and brand sentiment to better understand the impact of their brand in the market. In order to truly measure success, it is important to track organisational outcomes such as sales, customer retention, brand loyalty, and market share. These metrics will give you a more complete picture of brand performance. The blurring line between paid and earned media creates the issue of credibility and trust in communication. Now, with the work scope of a Public Relations consultancy growing beyond just media management relations, not every aspect of communication outreach being managed by the PR firm can be quantitatively measured,” says Anup Sharma.Digital PR metrics such as website domain authority, traffic to website and SEO ranking are now well-established metrics and are almost a must in PR measurement, says Sumathi Chari, Sr. Partner & Director, PRHUB. The advantage, according to her, is they are more tangible compared to traditional metrics and are easier to align to desired business outcomes.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\b6b9fc7a212bee0a137a41c366669436.png' class='content_image'>She feels that an 'integrated measurement' framework is critical in the future to assess the holistic impact a PR campaign has on the brand and business, one that measures across traditional, digital and social media amplification, that measures both quantitative metrics such as reach and impressions combined with qualitative parameters such as the messaging, tonality, engagement, reach to the right TG, alignment of content to TG, among others.Finally, says Chari, these metrics need to be brought together and analyzed comprehensively. “This analysis aims to extract key insights and define the campaign's impact on the organisation/brand in three key areas. The deeper we delve, the more effective we will be in defining the RoI and the impact of the PR campaign on the brand,” she adds.According to Siddhartha Mukherjee, founder of Brand Balance, there are more than five unique advantages of PR measurement. However, for this, the measurement framework needs to be designed, executed, and sustained scientifically.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\867f5843ffc3b685b187da33d3491bfe.png' class='content_image'>“The measurement framework is a reflection of the way the human brain functions! Over the years, globally, various nomenclatures have been used to visualize a framework, such as - INPUT-OUTPUT-OUTCOME or EXPOSURE-ENGAGEMENT-CONVERSION. In fact, AMEC (the International Association of Measurement & Evaluation of Communication) has detailed it further as INPUT-OUTPUT-OUTTAKES-OUTCOME-IMPACT. AMEC is making a lot of effort globally to simplify the subject of PR measurement and ensure that it is well-embedded in PR Industries across countries around the world,” he adds.AIand PR Will AI play a key role in measuring in the days to come?Yes, AI will play a huge role, and we are hoping for the best, especially in PR measurement, says Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus PR.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\fbab4f034452821461fb3d38283ed8f0.png' class='content_image'>“One promising emerging metric that offers a more holistic view of PR's impact on business objectives is overlaying the PR timeline with the sales graph. This combined view can resonate with both CFOs (Chief Financial Officers) and CMOs (Chief Marketing Officers). This done consistently over a period of 4-5 years will start showcasing the impact on each other and has proved to be very effective. Now the PR graph tracks only the hits (media and non-media) typically. But the more you add to it and start studying the interplay between both tracks, it becomes more clear to both teams on what and how PR is impacting the bottom line. Add a sentiment analysis and a vox pop feedback with key stakeholders to this mix and you have an impressive ROI document. While you create this, remember this is an annual document and not a monthly or quarterly one either. We have done this effectively for brands we work with and it was very well received,” Rattan explains.According to  Siddhartha Mukherjee, AI and tech-enabled interventions have amazing potential to upgrade the PR & measurement machinery of an organisation from a cost center to a revenue center. “It can contribute immensely across the PR framework, especially PR INPUT. This first block of the measurement framework itself has around seven different cogs such as listening, benchmarking, target setting, content bank, etc. Technology can bring in a lot of ease and preparedness,” he adds.Jyotsna Dash Nanda is certain that AI will likely be key in future PR measurement. AI can analyse vast amounts of data to identify sentiment, track brand advocacy, and measure the influence of earned media, providing a more comprehensive picture of PR's impact.Anup Sharma suggests that in order to continue to stay relevant, PR firms will need to rely on big data and artificial intelligence not only for predicting audience interests but also to move the needle towards credible engagement. PR can gain greater respect and credibility by using realistic metrics that produce credible data and that are tied to business outcomes.(Tomorrow, Part 3 of this series will cover how PR professionals can isolate and measure the specific impact of their campaigns amidst a mix of marketing activities, as well as other valuable metrics that PR professionals should consider when measuring success.)Image by GraphicMama-team from Pixabay

Sarah Ogden, the Managing Director of Team Lewis in the UK, has departed from the company after a tenure of almost three years. Ogden assumed the role in August 2021, overseeing the agency's largest global office. Prior to her time at Team Lewis, she dedicated 12 years to Three Monkeys, which subsequently became Three Monkeys Zeno following its acquisition in 2016, later rebranded as Zeno London, where she served as the Head of Corporate and Brand Communications.In the wake of Ogden's departure, Team Lewis has appointed Alicia Solanki, a former leader at Ketchum, as its new Senior Vice President for the EMEA region. Solanki expressed well wishes for Ogden's future endeavors, stating that her departure from the business was by mutual agreement. During the interim period until a replacement is named, the leadership responsibilities for the London office will be assumed by the UK leadership team.Ogden's future plans remain undisclosed at this time. Noteworthy clients under Team Lewis' purview include Google, Palo Alto Networks, Skyscanner, and Schneider Electric.

In the dynamic world of public relations (PR), measurement has long been a cornerstone for assessing success and guiding strategies. Yet, behind the veil of traditional PR metrics lies a fundamental challenge: the inability to capture the true impact of PR efforts. While metrics like media impressions, social media followers, and website traffic offer numerical snapshots of visibility and reach, they often fall short in revealing the deeper resonance and influence of PR initiatives.Almost half of all PR professionals, according to Muck Rack's 2022 State of PR report, are looking for ways to measure the impact of their work. This desire is strong across the industry, with 49% of agency professionals and 45% of those on the brand side emphasizing the importance of "producing measurable results" to show the value of PR within their organisations.This focus on measurement isn't surprising. Traditionally, PR efforts were judged on less tangible factors like brand awareness or media mentions. However, in today's data-driven world, executives are demanding concrete evidence of PR's contribution to the bottom line. By showcasing metrics like website traffic increases, lead generation, or positive sentiment analysis, PR professionals can demonstrate a direct return on investment (ROI) and secure a stronger seat at the decision-making table. This shift towards data-driven PR allows for more targeted campaigns, budget optimization, and a clearer understanding of what truly resonates with target audiences.Indeed, the landscape of media consumption has undergone a profound transformation, rendering traditional metrics that emphasize reach and ad equivalence of coverage increasingly obsolete. In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving media environment, consumers are no longer passive recipients of information but active participants who consume content on the go and selectively engage with what resonates with them.Traditional metricsSo, what are the limitations of traditional PR metrics? How do they fail to capture the true impact of PR efforts?In this three-part series, The PR POST embarks on a journey to unravel the limitations of traditional PR metrics, exploring how they obscure rather than illuminate the real value that PR brings to the table. The attempt is to delve into the nuances of measurement in PR, emerging metrics, the role of AI, etc.There are tangible and intangible elements to every PR campaign, says Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus PR.According to him, a lot of the effort of traditional PR metrics only aims to capture the tangible elements of work done, ignoring all the conversations, effort, and planning put in to arrive at it and completely ignores the other intangible elements.“While the entire industry worldwide has tried with various degrees of success to measure the tangible impact PR creates and put it in excel sheets, graphs, charts and PPTs, it is like trying to hold on to water. It takes the shape of whichever container it sees and changes shape with the next. Similarly, a matrix that is tweaked to one client will change for the next. There are efforts to bring in standardization in all these methods, but it is a tough job. Something almost always gets left behind. Today, every agency has a different matrix. With the advent of AI, we are hoping to be able to create something more all-encompassing for tangible results. The intangible ones, however, are a whole different story,” says Rattan.Public Relations is all about how your brand is represented in various outlets as earned media, and PR measurement is the process of measuring the impact of this earned media coverage on your brand, says Anup Sharma, Independent PR & Strategic Communications Consultant.For all organisations, Sharma reckons, it's essential to understand how best to measure the success of their PR campaigns in order to demonstrate a return on investment. However, he adds, measuring the outcomes is hard as attributing them to PR campaigns is not easy.“While in the digital world with modern tools, keeping track of who mentions you, where, and how is possible, not all PR impact is directly quantifiable. Also, given the converged nature of communications today, earned content also appears on social media and falls into the blurred zone of earned media coverage or shared or both. There is no one, widely agreed method of measuring earned media value, and the trend of PR measurement as a topic has always been discussed and debated. The AMEC framework is the most widely adopted process for measuring and evaluating communications, as this focuses on capturing all outputs and outtakes, with a particular emphasis on organisational impact,” Sharma explains.Traditional metrics primarily focus on reach and ad equivalence of coverage, says Sumathi Chari, Senior Partner & Director, PRHUB. However, she adds, in today’s evolved and continually changing media landscape, this emphasis is irrelevant. Today, readers consume content on the go and choose the content they want to read or engage with.“At the same time, the scope of PR in a digital, multi-media environment has broadened, and limiting measurement to brand reach or a few other standalone metrics will dilute the larger impact of PR on businesses and organisations,” she adds.My observation is that very few within our industry are genuinely practicing and leveraging effective PR measurement, opines Siddhartha Mukherjee, founder of Brand Balance, a measurement & data analytics-led corporate brand reputation and ERP management consultancy.He states that the definition and visualization of PR measurement are influenced by our perception of PR. Its construct differs depending on how the top management of organisations perceives and leverages it.“For some, it is merely seen as a news dispatch or management tool, a perspective prevalent among a significant portion of organisations. However, another category of organisations exists where CEOs, CFOs, CMOs, and CHROs view PR as a strategic tool for brand reputation and valuation management. This disparity in the thought process among the end customers of PR forms the foundation for the current state of PR measurement,” says Mukherjee.The prevailing trend Mukherjee has observed in the measurement templates utilized by both clients and service providers tends to skew towards traditional PR monitoring. According to him it is imperative for custodians to discern between PR measurement and monitoring. Monitoring, he adds, primarily revolves around conducting daily and monthly assessments to gauge the quantity and quality of media visibility for corporate and product brands, as well as developments within the business ecosystem.“However, measurement presents a broader and more strategic approach. It focuses on ensuring that every PR effort conceived and executed contributes to enhancing brand and business metrics, ultimately reflecting in Return on Objectives (ROO). This delineates PR measurement as a linear structure encompassing PR INPUT, PR OUTPUT, and PR OUTCOME. Undoubtedly, this framework requires the backing of a meticulously designed framework of ERPs - efforts, resources, and processes - to effectively measure the impact and value of PR initiatives,” adds Mukherjee.Jyotsna Dash Nanda, AVP, Corporate Communications, DS Group, reckons that traditional PR metrics lack insight into the "why" behind the "what" – they track results but not resonance. Instead, she adds, they often fixate on vanity metrics that fail to provide a comprehensive narrative.According to her, here's how they fall short, along with some future-oriented approaches:Limitations:Impressions/Reach: These metrics (e.g., number of people who saw a press release) show exposure, but not engagement (did they read it? Did it resonate?)Example: A press release gets published in a major newspaper, reaching millions. But if the writing is bland or the placement irrelevant, it might have minimal impact.Advertising Value Equivalency (AVE): This assigns a dollar value to media coverage, assuming it's the same as paid advertising. This is widely criticized as inaccurate.Example: A company claims an AVE of $100,000 for a positive article. However, no guarantee paid advertising for that amount would have had the same impact (or any impact at all).Sentiment Analysis (basic): Traditional methods might simply categorize sentiment as positive, negative, or neutral. This misses nuance.Example: An article mentions a company but doesn't explicitly recommend it. Basic sentiment analysis might miss the opportunity to understand the context and potential impact.According to her, it is also important to gauge performance vis-à-vis competition.(Stay tuned for tomorrow's part, where we'll delve into emerging metrics for a comprehensive understanding of PR's impact and the role of AI in measurement.)Image by Joseph Mucira from Pixabay

Global communications consultancy APCO Worldwide has announced a leadership change in Southeast Asia. JJ Lee, who served as Managing Director since 2022, has departed the firm, per media reports.An APCO spokesperson has said that over the past five years, JJ played a valuable role in driving APCO’s growth across the region.” This announcement coincides with the appointment of Ian Rumsby as Chief Client Officer for Southeast Asia. Rumsby brings extensive experience to the role and will be responsible for leading and managing the regional team.“APCO boasts a team of exceptionally talented professionals across Southeast Asia,” the spokesperson continued. “We’re confident that Ian, working closely with APCO Asia Chairman Masayo Nagai, will further strengthen our Southeast Asia leadership team for the long term.”Lee joined APCO in 2019, while her former spouse, James Yi, left the firm last year.

Greeshma Nachane has taken to LinkedIn to share her exciting career move, announcing her new role as Corporate Communications Manager at PayMate, a significant step in her professional journey.In a post on linkedin she expressed her gratitude, saying, “I have immense gratitude towards everyone who contributed to my Adfactors PR journey all my superiors, mentors, colleagues, media journalists, etc. Thank you so much everyone for all the support and learnings!”Greeshma’s professional background includes positions at Adfactors PR, Communicate India, White Marque Solution, and Trikut Films before joining PayMate.

Vaibhav Kulkarni has taken on the role of Head of Public Relations & Channel Marketing at ASUS, overseeing the company's Smartphones and Commercial PC divisions.Kulkarni became a part of ASUS in December of the previous year, coming from a role as Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Branding and Marketing at FINVASIA.His extensive experience also includes leading efforts in public affairs, branding, and communications at SWIFT. Furthermore, Kulkarni brings valuable insights from a significant tenure of almost seven years at Kingston Technology, where he worked in both India and the Philippines.

Dimple Kapur has recently joined Star Health & Allied Insurance as EVP & Head of Corporate Brand & Communications.Dimple Raisurana Kapur is a seasoned PR and communications professional with over two decades of experience across corporate and agency roles. She specializes in corporate reputation management, corporate strategy, crisis communications, marketing communications, and advocacy.Prior to this role, she served as Head of Corporate Communications at Pernod Ricard India. During her tenure at Pernod Ricard India, Dimple Kapur held the position of Head of Corporate Communications for over a year. Additionally, she has handled PR and communications for various firms including Piramal Group, Qualcomm India & South Asia, and The PRactice-Porter Novelli, among others.

Piali Dasgupta has stepped down from her position as Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communication at Columbia Pacific Communities, concluding a tenure of five and a half years with the organization. With over 17 years of diverse experience spanning media, real estate, e-commerce, and more, her expertise lies in shaping brand identity, strategizing brand architecture and positioning, consumer segmentation, campaign creation, ATL and BTL marketing, digital marketing, storytelling, PR, and corporate communication.During her tenure, Piali Dasgupta played a pivotal role in establishing and elevating the business, brand, and category, transforming it into a preferred consumer brand in the senior living sector within a brief span of five years. Expressing her sentiments on LinkedIn, she stated, "The opportunity to serve seniors, give them a voice and visibility, fight ageism and age-related stereotypes, craft the narrative of positive aging, and create a benchmark-setting senior care brand in the country, is something that I will always be grateful for."Reflecting on her interactions with the vibrant senior residents across the ten communities, she shared, "I will miss interacting with our livewire senior residents across our 10 communities. I wish I had even an iota of their energy, talent, joie de vivre, and zest for life! They inspire me every day." She reminisced on the genesis of the journey, highlighting the creation of a mixed media upcycled art of a banyan tree, symbolizing the brand's values of rootedness, wisdom, and shelter.?

Vigor Media Worldwide, a renowned global media agency, has won the Public Relations (PR) mandate for Easy Solar Solutions Pvt. Limited (Easy Solar), a leading firm offering a range of Solar and LED products in India. The agency will leverage its experience and industry knowledge to position Easy Solar as a key player in the renewable energy sector.Vigor MediaWorldwide won the prestigious account after an aggressive multi-agency pitch followed by a competitive bidding process. The partnership highlights Vigor Media Worldwide's expertise in PR and communication strategies. The agency will work closely with Easy Solar to develop and implement strategic communication frameworks aimed at enhancing the company's brand visibility and reputation.The mandate for Easy Solar will be handled by the Delhi headoffice of Vigor Media Worldwide with the support from its proficient and dedicated team along with its dynamic national and global associates for greater visibility and strong positioning of the brand among targeted segments.Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Lokesh Vats, Director, Easy Solar Solutions Pvt. Ltd. said, "We are delighted to collaborate with Vigor Media Worldwide. With their extensive experience in media and communication, we are confident they will significantly enhance our stakeholder engagement. Easy Solar is dedicated to delivering innovative solar solutions that adhere to the highest standards of excellence."Expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration, Mr. Nikhil Singhal, Founder, Vigor Media Worldwide said, “We are excited and proud to be associated with Easy Solar, which has pioneered a series of innovations in the renewable energy segment. We look forward to implementing strategic initiatives for Brand Endorsement and Image Enhancement that will further strengthen Easy Solar's position in the market."A 100% Solar Company, Easy Solar focuses entirely on solar and its applications, with a strong emphasis on research and development for user-friendly solutions. The company's dedication to excellence has been recognized by thousands of customers across India and the world.Vigor Media Worldwide is a renowned global media agency with cross-sectoral expertise spanning Real Estate, Education, Lifestyle, FMCG, Hospitality, Healthcare, Technology, Security, Consulting, and other sectors. The agency's client portfolio includes top-of-the-line brands in the industry with recurring association over the years. Vigor Media Worldwide excels in strategic communication processes that foster mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their target audiences. By promoting clients and their offerings on multiple platforms, the company ensures comprehensive brand visibility and engagement.

Zoff Foods, one of the prominent spice brands in India, has assigned Grapes as their PR and communication agency.The agency will be responsible for the brand’s overall media presence. As per the mandate, Grapes will take charge of the brand’s PR strategy, influencer marketing, advocacy and strategic brand positioning, and reputation management in India. The account has won after a multiple-agency post and will be served from its New Delhi office. Commenting on the partnership, Akash Agrawal, Co-Founder, Zoff Foods said, “We believe that this is the perfect and crucial time for our brand to align our communications strategy, and we are thrilled to associate with Grapes that understand our brand’s ethos and growth prospects. The Spice market is growing at a CAGR rate of 13 per cent, and the market plays a crucial role in the country’s exports. At Zoff Foods, we are committed to expanding our business horizons and contributing effectively to the Indian economy. I am optimistic that the agency will build a strong media presence for us.Ashish Agrawal, Managing Director, Zoff Foods, said, “Zoff Foods has become a prominent player in the Indian spice market thanks to Shark Tank India for the visibility and recognition. Our goal is to become a go-to brand in every household, from urban to rural areas. Thus, we believe that to achieve this objective public relations plays an imperative role in driving awareness. I am quite enthusiastic about this partnership with Grapes and look forward to driving meaningful conversations in the media landscape.Shradha Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Grapes, said, “We are thrilled to associate with Zoff Foods, and fully resonate with the brand’s vision. The partnership with Zoff Foods marks a pivotal moment for Grapes, symbolizing our commitment to driving impactful conversation coupled with digital innovation. We aim to achieve our objectives and drive impactful market presence through effective communication strategies.Zoff Foods received widespread attention after its appearance on Shark Tank (season 1). Their pitch on the show was one of the notable pitches by Akash Agarwal and Ashish Agarwal. The duo received funding of 1 crore at a valuation of Rs 80 crore from Aman Gupta, Co-Founder of Boat.

Racepoint Global has appointed Amy Palladino as Executive Vice President of Strategic Services, in a move to strengthen its employee communications and change management capabilities. Palladino will spearhead the growth of RPG Prism, the company's newly expanded practice dedicated to these critical areas.A seasoned communications professional with a proven track record, Palladino brings a wealth of experience to Racepoint Global. Throughout her career, she has held senior positions at leading organisations like Ketchum and Heineken, where she honed her expertise in executive communication, change management, and internal communications. Most recently, Palladino served as a Vice President at Gartner, and also boasts experience running her own change management consultancy and leading people & change initiatives at FTI Consulting."The modern workplace presents a multitude of challenges for businesses," says Bob Osmond, President of Racepoint Global. "From navigating the complexities of hybrid work to harnessing the power of AI and fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, leaders need effective communication strategies to drive engagement and innovation.""Amy Palladino is a recognized leader in the communications industry," Osmond continues. "Her extensive experience partnering with renowned brands to guide them through major transformations makes her an invaluable asset to Racepoint Global. We are confident that under her leadership, RPG Prism will empower our clients to create a more informed, inspired, and collaborative workforce."Palladino's appointment underscores Racepoint Global's commitment to providing clients with the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today's dynamic business environment.

The Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) has appointed Bloomingdale Public Relations Pte. Ltd. (Bloomingdale PR) as its official PR agency to commemorate its landmark 75th Anniversary Celebration.SIFAS, established in 1949, is a cornerstone of Indian cultural heritage in Singapore. This non-profit organization is dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and appreciation for Indian fine arts across various disciplines. 2024 marks their Diamond Jubilee, a significant milestone celebrating their rich legacy and unwavering commitment to nurturing talent.“We are honoured to be chosen as SIFAS’ PR agency for their 75th Anniversary Celebration,” said Diana Fernandes, Founder and CEO of Bloomingdale PR. “Our expertise in strategic communication will help SIFAS highlight its remarkable contributions to Singapore’s cultural landscape and craft a captivating narrative that resonates with audiences both locally and internationally.”Menaka Gopalan, Executive Director of SIFAS, expressed her delight about the collaboration: “As we celebrate our Diamond Jubilee, we are thrilled to partner with Bloomingdale PR to showcase SIFAS’ rich heritage and cultural significance. Together, we aim to commemorate our achievements and pave the way for a vibrant future for Indian fine arts in Singapore.”This momentous year also marks two decades of the prestigious SIFAS Festival of Arts. Since 2003, the festival has served as a platform for showcasing the finest Indian fine arts in Singapore. Partnering with the Esplanade since 2005, they have brought international and local talents to the forefront.The 2024 SIFAS Festival of Arts promises to be a year-long celebration (May 19th, 2024 – May 19th, 2025) filled with captivating events and activities. Through this festival, SIFAS aims to solidify its enduring legacy and envision a bright future for Indian fine arts in Singapore.

Shubhreet Kaur, a seasoned media professional, has embarked on a new journey with Adfactors PR, the nation's leading and one of the most decorated PR agencies.Shubhreet Kaur, a dynamic figure known for her extensive experience in journalism, television anchoring, and integrated communications, has officially joined Adfactors PR as Vice President - Integration. This strategic appointment underscores Adfactors' commitment to enhancing its integrated communications capabilities and further solidifying its position as a powerhouse in the industry.Expressing her excitement, Shubhreet shared: "I'm thrilled to announce my association with Adfactors, a pinnacle in the PR domain. It's a privilege to join the team led by Madan Bahal, an industry stalwart whose vision and leadership are unparalleled. The warm welcome from Team Adfactors has truly made me feel at home, and I am eager to embark on this new journey of collaboration and growth."Bringing over 19 years of rich expertise encompassing news, television, production, PR, creative strategy, and influencer marketing, Shubhreet's multifaceted background positions her as a valuable asset to Adfactors' diverse clientele. Her previous stint at Hill & Knowlton has honed her skills in navigating the intricate landscape of communications, making her a perfect fit for her new role at Adfactors.Beyond her professional endeavors, Shubhreet embodies versatility as a full-time VP, part-time influencer, and dedicated mother to her daughters, Karma and Nirvana. When not immersed in work or digital engagements, she indulges in her passions for content creation, tin box collection, and the art of decluttering.

Vigor Media Worldwide, a renowned global media agency, has secured the Public Relations (PR) mandate for Anmol Industries Limited (Anmol Industries), a leading packaged food company specializing in biscuits, cakes, and cookies. This collaboration underscores Vigor Media Worldwide's expertise in strategic communication and brand enhancement within the food industry.Vigor Media Worldwide won the prestigious account following an aggressive multi-agency pitch and competitive bidding process. The agency's role will involve developing a strategic communication framework for Anmol Industries while reinforcing its leadership positioning in the industry.The mandate for Anmol Industries will be managed by Vigor Media Worldwide's Delhi-NCR office, supported by its proficient and dedicated team, alongside its skilled national and global associates, to enhance visibility and positioning of the brand among targeted segments.Expressing excitement about this association, Mr. Aman Choudhary, Executive Director, Anmol Industries Limited said, "We are pleased to announce our collaboration with Vigor Media Worldwide to enhance our PR and corporate communication framework. We are looking forward to deepening our market penetration and have found that their strategic approach and innovative ideas align perfectly with our vision. We anticipate their dedicated team to devise inventive strategies, enabling us to engage effectively with our stakeholders and enhance our brand presence among our target audiences."Emerging as a key player in the Biscuits and Bakery market in India, Anmol Industries Ltd has a strong presence in Northern and Eastern India and is actively expanding into the Southern and Western regions. Its product range includes a variety of biscuits, cookies, cakes, and rusk produced at world-class, state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities.Commenting on winning the PR mandate of Anmol Industries, Mr. Nikhil Singhal, Founder, Vigor Media Worldwide said, "We are truly privileged to be chosen as Anmol Industries' partners in enhancing their esteemed brand image. We are committed to crafting thoughtful and innovative communication strategies that resonate with their vision. With our expertise in brand enhancement and integrated media solutions, we aim to propel Anmol Industries towards their expansion objectives."

Orchid Pharma (NSE/BSE), Chennai-based, leading pharmaceutical company catering across the pharmaceutical value chain (discovery to delivery) with expertise in R&D and marketing, has appointed Gurgaon-based Cumulus Public Relations as its official communications partner.  After almost 2 decades of a strong, multi-therapeutic presence in the domestic market, across segments, primarily famous for its Cephalosporins, Orchid pivoted to focus on bulk Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) business in recent years.  Orchid’s global reach extends beyond the 50 pharmaceutical companies in India, through alliances and partnerships with globally reputed majors. Orchid is, till date, the only Indian Pharmaceutical company to have invented a New Chemical Entity (NCE), which was recently approved under the New Drug Application (NDA) process by USFDA, and also by European Authorities.Having established its credentials in research, manufacturing, and marketing, and armed with infusion of funds from its new owners (Dhanuka Laboratories, of the Dhanuka Group), Orchid Pharma is poised re-enter the domestic formulations market, with a commitment to be a catalyst in addressing the challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), a global concern which is particularly acute in India. According to a new WHO report, globally there are estimated 4.95 million deaths per year associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Low and middle-income countries bear the burden of drug-resistant infections. Speaking on the appointment of Cumulus as its communication partner, Mr. Manish Dhanuka, MD - Orchid Pharma, said, “Orchid Pharma is on a determined, future-forward path with several significant innovations at play. One of our most strategic, critical priorities is to be a catalyst in bringing multiple industry and community stakeholders together to address the problem of Antimicrobial-Resistance. With the support of a strategic communication specialist like Cumulus, we hope to reshape the narrative within the healthcare ecosystem.” Mr. Rajnish Rohatgi, CEO of the newly formed Orchid AMS division that will focus on domestic formulations market, said: “We hope to change the way antibiotics have been sold in India, and focus on promoting rational use, that is aimed at preserving and prolonging the life of the limited numbers of antibiotics that the pathogens have not yet become resistant to. A leading infection control doctor had told me 10 years ago that soon the day will come when a patient going into a hospital would be like a soldier walking into a minefield. He recently told me “That day has come”. Expressing enthusiasm at the new mandate, Reena Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Cumulus, said, “For storytellers today, there is nothing more fulfilling than crafting a narrative that blends business goals with a powerful purpose – the Orchid Pharma mandate perfectly embodies this idea. As communications partner to a reputable healthcare company driven by a passionate team, we are eager to create a positive impact that resonates through the healthcare ecosystem.”

MikeWorldWide, a leading independent and midsize public relations agency, has announced the appointment of Marc Stolove as its new executive creative director. Marc brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the creative industry, previously leading creative teams at Edelman, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Ogilvy.With an impressive career that spans across various facets of creative development and strategic branding, Marc has consistently demonstrated his ability to craft compelling narratives and innovative strategies that capture the essence of a brand and resonate with target audiences. His expertise in developing earned-worthy creative is particularly suited to the agency's mission of reaching its clients' stakeholders across various traditional and new mediums, known as "the new top tier."Marc's background in managing and executing high-profile campaigns across multiple platforms has honed his ability to think outside the box and push creative boundaries, with award-winning experience with leading brands such as Pepsi, American Express, and Aetna.At MWW, Marc will lead the creative team with a focus on integrating creative strategy into all aspects of client campaigns to ensure that each campaign exceeds objectives. His strategic approach to creative development is rooted in a deep understanding of the ever-evolving media landscape and a commitment to leveraging creativity as a tool for earning media attention and fostering brand growth."Marc's visionary approach to creative strategy and his unwavering commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit for our agency," said Michael Kempner, founder and chief executive officer of MikeWorldWide. "As MWW continues to grow and evolve, Marc's leadership and creative insight will play a critical role in shaping our future success."Marc expressed his enthusiasm for joining MWW, stating, "I am excited to join MikeWorldWide and energized by the creativity and collaboration a mid-size agency environment fosters. I look forward to partnering with the talented teams at MWW to create dynamic, innovative campaigns that drive meaningful results for our clients."Marc will be based out of MikeWorldWide's New York City office headquarters.

Burson, the soon-to-be launched $1 billion PR firm formed by the merger of BCW and Hill & Knowlton, has appointed Laura Anderson as Chair of Technology for the Americas. Anderson brings over 25 years of experience in communications, having held leadership positions at companies like Google's DeepMind, Silver Lake, and Intel (where she spent nearly two decades, including two years as VP and GM of global communications).Anderson will officially begin her role on July 1st, coinciding with Burson's launch. In the interim, she will work with BCW starting April 22nd."Laura's extensive experience positions her perfectly to lead our Americas technology practice," said Kristine Boyden, CEO of BCW Americas (and future CEO of Burson). "Her deep understanding of the tech industry, from navigating policy issues to driving innovation, will be invaluable to our clients."Boyden continued, praising Anderson's ability to guide tech brands through challenges and build strong reputations. This expertise, Boyden believes, will benefit both Burson's regional and global technology clients.

In a significant career move, Megha Chhabra has announced her appointment as the Group Lead for Public Relations and Content at the CK Birla Group. Her transition to this pivotal role marks a new chapter in her professional journey, signaling her commitment to furthering the conglomerate's communication endeavors.Expressing her enthusiasm, Chhabra stated: "I'm thrilled to inform that I've taken up the role of Group Lead - Public Relations and Content at the CK Birla Group." With over five years of valuable experience as the Assistant General Manager at Radico Khaitan Limited, Chhabra brings a wealth of expertise to her new position.The CK Birla Group stands as a prominent conglomerate, boasting an impressive portfolio of companies including Orient Electric, Orient Cement, Orient Paper, Birlasoft, CK Birla Healthcare, Birla Institute of Technology-Mesra, Birla IVF, HIL, among others. Chhabra's role will undoubtedly play a crucial part in enhancing the group's communication strategies across these diverse entities.Acknowledging the significance of her new role, Chhabra expressed her excitement at being part of such a renowned conglomerate. Her track record of excellence and dedication in her previous position underscores her readiness to take on this new challenge and contribute to the continued success of the CK Birla Group.