https://theprpost.com/post/8920/

Power of openness: How transparency builds trust in a hyper-connected world

In a not-so-distant past, companies could remain behind the curtain, carefully managing every aspect of their image. Back then, if a company made a mistake, it might not even make the news. But today, a single social media post can change everything, and brands have to be ready for it. We’re living in an age where consumers don’t just buy products; they buy into stories, values, and integrity. And they expect transparency like never before.Picture yourself scrolling through your feed one lazy afternoon, and you come across a story from a company that goes beyond just advertising a product. They’re sharing where their materials come from, how their production impacts local communities, or even their struggles to improve their sustainability practices. You find yourself nodding, maybe even sharing the post, because it feels real. You’re drawn in not just by the product, but by the genuine, unfiltered story.Why Transparency Builds TrustWe’re all living in a world overflowing with information. With so much competition for attention, trust has become rare and valuable. And trust doesn’t come from a snappy slogan or a clever ad campaign—it comes from brands that openly share their values, their origins, and what they’re really all about. It’s no longer enough to just say, “Trust us!” Customers want to know, “Why should we?”Transparency is what cuts through the noise. When companies make it clear where they stand on issues, explain their production choices, or even let us in on their sourcing practices, they’re building something bigger than a sale—they’re building a relationship. And like any solid relationship, it’s built on honesty.Navigating Open CommunicationBeing transparent can be tough. It means being prepared to talk about things that aren’t always pretty or simple. But this kind of openness does something powerful: it makes a brand human. When a company admits to a mistake or explains a tough decision, people see more than a logo. They see a group of people making thoughtful choices, doing their best in a complicated world.For instance, if a brand faces backlash for a certain decision, staying silent can seem like the safer route. But directly addressing the issue, explaining what happened, and sharing the steps they’re taking to fix it can turn a potentially negative story into one that strengthens loyalty. It shows customers that the brand doesn’t just want their money—it values their trust.The Social Media SpotlightIn today’s world, social media amplifies everything. We’re all connected, sharing opinions and stories faster than ever. Brands can’t control the conversation like they used to; instead, they’re part of a huge, public dialogue. Every choice they make, big or small, has the potential to ripple across networks in an instant.This is why transparency is essential. When brands take the time to openly explain their decisions—whether it’s about how they treat their employees or where they source their materials—those stories can resonate with people on a deep level. Social media thrives on authenticity, and in this environment, transparency becomes a brand’s best ally.How Transparency Becomes a Competitive EdgeTransparency is more than just a buzzword; it’s a competitive advantage. Consumers today have endless choices, and they’re drawn to brands that invite them behind the scenes, showing the real, sometimes messy, stories that make up their journey. It’s not about presenting a perfect image; it’s about building credibility by being open, even when it’s uncomfortable.Transparency is also a way to bring customers along for the ride. When people feel like they’re part of a brand’s story, they’re more likely to stick around. It’s about sharing not just the successes, but the struggles, the questions, and the decisions along the way. And when customers feel involved, they become more than buyers—they become believers.A Shared FutureAs consumers, we’re part of this shift, too. When we support transparent brands, we’re choosing a future where business isn’t just about profit, but about purpose and principles. And for brands, the payoff for being transparent goes beyond customer loyalty. It creates a community of advocates who truly believe in the brand’s mission.In the end, transparency is a bridge. It connects brands and people, bringing them together in a world that values openness and trust. It’s not just a trend—it’s an invitation to build a stronger, more honest future. And as we all move forward, it’s the brands that embrace transparency that will lead the way.
https://theprpost.com/post/8913/

Addressing the talent crunch in the PR industry: Key challenges and solutions

The PR industry is currently facing a significant talent crunch, exacerbated by the evolving demands of the communications landscape. As the need for innovative strategies, digital integration, and agility rises, the challenge of finding and retaining the right talent becomes even more pressing. Adding to this complexity is the post-pandemic shift, where professionals have reconsidered their priorities, mental health has come to the forefront, and the traditional agency model faces scrutiny.The Talent Shortage and Mental Health StrainThe pandemic has left an ingrained mark on how the PR industry operates, particularly in terms of workload and mental health. The toll of non-stop work, endless syncs and Zoom meetings, along with the isolation and difficulty in expressing its impact is real. This constant pressure, especially in an industry where professionals juggle multiple clients, projects, and personal responsibilities, has led to significant burnout.The situation isn’t just about overwork – there’s a deeper issue regarding how mental health is addressed in the PR sector. Professionals are often expected to maintain high levels of productivity and creativity while meeting client demands, which has caused many to question the sustainability of this pace.Key Challenges in Attracting TalentThe first step in addressing the talent crunch is understanding the root causes behind why PR agencies struggle to attract talent. Vikram Kharvi, CEO, Bloomingdale PR, points out that the startups have been a major factor. He says, “Startups often attract talent with the promise of innovation, flexibility, and the excitement of building something new from the ground up. They offer a sense of ownership and direct impact that can be incredibly appealing, especially to younger professionals.”This highlights a major issue within traditional PR agencies – the perceived rigidity in structure and lack of flexibility. Startups and in-house PR roles often offer more flexible working conditions, including work-from-home options and adaptable hours. In contrast, PR agencies, bound by tight client deadlines, are often viewed as being less accommodating in terms of work-life balance. As a result, talented professionals are drawn to roles that promise a better balance between personal and professional life.Sonali Sokhal, CEO and Founder, Intelliquo, adds to this by emphasizing on the gap in proper training within the industry. “Young people join the workforce without adequate training and then find the work overwhelming, leading them to leave. We need to empower young professionals with skill development and proper processes,” she says. The absence of structured training and mentorship has resulted in a high turnover rate, as young professionals often feel overwhelmed by the demands placed on them without the right guidance.Retaining Talent: The Bigger ChallengeOnce talent is attracted to the industry, retaining them presents its own challenges. Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus PR, explains that the constant barrage of unrealistic demands can quickly lead to burnout. “When insane demands and unrealistic expectations across brands and partners fly across your desk every single day at an intense pace, it can become overwhelming very quickly,” she adds. The relentless pressure, coupled with the often misunderstood role of PR within the broader communications ecosystem, makes it difficult for professionals to feel motivated and valued.Additionally, Rattan points out that the limited ability to showcase the true impact of PR due to client confidentiality adds to the problem. “We are limited by client confidentiality, which allows us to talk in generalities and rarely give a true picture of what we actually do. This is limiting. Smaller groups and closed-door discussions work in attracting the right minds to the profession, but it is a slow, arduous task where demand is way higher than supply,” she adds.The gender gap in PR leadership further complicates the retention issue. Many women in the industry find themselves at a crossroads, often stepping back or taking career breaks to manage family responsibilities. The lack of sufficient support systems, such as flexible work arrangements and childcare solutions, within agencies leads to the loss of highly experienced professionals.Bloomingdale PR’s Kharvi highlights how this is particularly challenging for women leaders in PR, stating, “The lack of sufficient support systems within agencies to accommodate these needs can result in losing highly experienced and talented professionals.”Government Initiatives and Skill DevelopmentWith the Indian government’s Budget 2024 focusing on upskilling the workforce to make people more employable, there is an opportunity for the PR industry to align itself with these initiatives. Skill development and training programs, particularly in digital and social media, can help address the growing gap in talent.Abhishek Puri, Corporate & Marketing Communications NIIT Limited, emphasizes on the need for continuous learning within the PR sector. He says, “The rapid pace of change in digital and social media demands continuous learning and adaptation. PR firms must offer training and development programs focused on these emerging trends to retain top talent.”Beyond digital skills, there is also a need for a clear career progression path within the industry. Without a defined trajectory for growth, professionals may feel stagnant, leading them to explore opportunities in other industries. Puri also highlights the importance of creating dynamic work environments that foster creativity and innovation to keep top talent engaged.Strategies to Combat the Talent CrunchTo address the talent crunch, PR firms must adopt a comprehensive, multi- faceted strategy. This involves not only attracting talent but also ensuring their long-term growth and engagement within the industry.Evangelize the PR Industry: Tarunjeet Rattan suggests that the industry needs to take a more proactive approach in promoting PR as a career choice. “We need to do more on evangelizing PR at an individual, apex body, and community group level.” Showcasing the diversity and dynamism of PR through career fairs, college workshops, and industry events can attract fresh talent.Partnerships with Educational Institutions: According to Rattan, establishing collaborations with colleges can ensure that students are equipped with the right skills and knowledge about the PR profession. “Colleges need to offer the right counseling for students, helping them understand the profession and their aptitude for it. The right courses and sessions with industry professionals along with internships can go a long way toward helping talent understand the profession.”Provide Flexible Work Environments: Vikram Kharvi points out that flexibility is one of the key drivers in attracting talent. Offering options for remote work, flexible hours, and better work-life balance is crucial. Agencies need to adapt to the demands of today’s workforce, which prioritizes flexibility and a supportive work environment.Upskill and Mentor Employees: Both Sonali Sukhal and Tarunjeet Rattan agree that continuous learning and mentorship are essential to retaining talent. Sukhal explains, “PR firms need to showcase best practices to attract talent. The younger generation today is concerned about the impact of their work, as much as they are on career growth.” Providing employees with training programs, access to mentors, and opportunities to work across different verticals can help them grow holistically within the profession.Address Mental Health: The relentless pace and pressure of PR work have led to widespread burnout. Agencies need to make mental health a priority by creating supportive work cultures, offering counseling services, and ensuring that workloads are manageable. Rattan’s observation about the overwhelming pace of PR work speaks to the urgent need for agencies to implement better mental health initiatives to retain talent.Create Clear Career Progression Paths: PR professionals often leave the industry due to a lack of clarity around career growth. Abhishek Puri emphasizes on the importance of establishing clear pathways for advancement within the industry to keep talent motivated and engaged.
https://theprpost.com/post/8905/

Netflix Communications Chief Rachel Whetstone, Policy VP Dean Garfield depart

Netflix is set to see two prominent departures from its leadership team, with Chief Communications Officer Rachel Whetstone, and Vice President of Global Public Policy Dean Garfield announcing their exits from the company.Co-CEO Ted Sarandos is planning to streamline their responsibilities under a new role—Chief Global Affairs Officer—a move confirmed by a Reuters report.Whetstone, a veteran in the communications field with over two decades of experience, first joined Netflix in 2018 following her tenure as Vice President of Communications at Facebook. She previously held senior roles in communications and public policy at tech giants Uber and Google. Originally from the UK, Whetstone is reportedly not pursuing the new consolidated role at Netflix.Garfield brought significant policy expertise to Netflix when he joined five years ago, having served as president and CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council. His career also includes strategic leadership roles as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategic Officer at the Motion Picture Association of America, and Vice President of Legal Affairs at the Recording Industry Association of America.
https://theprpost.com/post/8886/

Chartered Institute of Public Relations elects Taazima Kala as Chair

CIPR International (Chartered Institute of Public Relations) has elected a new committee at its AGM held on 29 October. Taazima Kala was elected as Chair, with Saad Al Rubaiaan as Vice Chair. Nishika Bajaj was re-elected as Secretary, and Stuart Graham continues as Treasurer. The role of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Champion has been expanded to include two individuals, Anjali Patil and Nooralhuda Nader Aljlas, further enriching the committee's diversity.Taazima Kala, the newly elected Chair for 2025, said: “It is a great privilege to be elected as Chair of the CIPR International Committee for 2025. My heartfelt congratulations go to our newly elected officers and committee members, and my sincere gratitude to our outgoing Chair, Samantha Seewoosurrun, for her outstanding leadership over the past three years. As one of the largest sectoral groups within CIPR, with over 1,000 members as of 2023, CIPR International continues to expand globally, adding invaluable diversity, passion, and expertise to our community. We remain dedicated to supporting our members by fostering cultural understanding, building international connections, and promoting knowledge sharing through initiatives like webinars. Notably, the recent introduction of a monthly card payment option for overseas members—a key milestone championed by Samantha—makes CIPR membership more accessible than ever. I look forward to an impactful year ahead as we continue to grow and support our global network."Outgoing Chair Samantha Seewoosurrun, who has led the committee from 2022 to 2024, reflected on her term:“It has been a tremendous honour to serve as Chair of the CIPR International Committee over the past three years. Reflecting on my tenure, I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, from expanding our global reach to enhancing our support for members across continents. I am grateful to our dedicated committee members whose passion and commitment have been the driving force behind our progress. I warmly thank all of our committee members for their time, ideas, energy, and dedication over the past year, as well as for their personal support throughout my term. I would like to congratulate Taazima, Saad and Nishika on their election, as an outstanding team of international PR professionals bringing a range of perspectives from Africa, the Middle East and India, who will surely lead our committee from strength to strength in the future."Newly elected Vice Chair Saad Al Rubaiaan also expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming year, commenting: "I am honoured to step into the role of Vice Chair for the CIPR International Committee and look forward to a transformative year ahead. Building on the solid foundation laid by our predecessors, we will work tirelessly to foster deeper connections within our global community. Our focus will be on amplifying the voices and contributions of our diverse membership, delivering tangible value through increased engagement and knowledge-sharing opportunities, and advancing the role of PR on the international stage. I am particularly excited about the election of our two EDI Champions, which underscores our unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion at the international level."CIPR International is one of the largest sectoral groups of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations the world's only Royal Chartered professional body for public relations practitioners, with nearly 11,000 members. The International Committee is united in its mission to make a positive impact on the industry and to expand the global reach of PR and supporting members by fostering cultural understanding, building international relationships, and providing platforms for benchmarking and learning from best practices. The 2025 CIPR International Committee comprises:• Chair: Taazima Kala• Vice Chair: Saad Al Rubaiaan• Secretary: Nishika Bajaj• Treasurer: Stuart Graham• EDI Champions: Anjali Patil and Nooralhuda Nader Aljlas• Committee Members: Samantha Seewoosurrun, Eva Maclaine, Andras Sztaniszlav, Anne Gregory, Omotola Akindipe, Alessandra Pilchero, Samuel Osei, Steven Smith, Klao Bell-Lewis, Claire Benson, Ferdinand Bondoy, Stuart Bruce, Olayinka Elizabeth Edmond, Thanzyl Thajudeen, Jared Meade, Oluwayemisi Adekunle, and Gavrielle Kirk-Cohen.
https://theprpost.com/post/8877/

Digital storytelling: The key to building brands

In a world with options aplenty, strategic corporate communications and reputation management have emerged as the linchpin for businesses seeking to build trust and long-term brand equity. Communications and public relations act as an effective tool to build a positive narrative for the brand, shape favourable consumer perception and build brand loyalty among the existing consumers. A robust reputation strategy helps companies to successfully navigate and carve a niche positioning for the brand, setting them apart from rivals. It also plays an important role in case of a crisis,to mitigate risk and negative impact of an untoward incident. Keeping all this in mind, brands across sectors have emphasized designing and implementing robust corporate communication strategy, one that encompasses various channels including digital platforms and is a healthy mix of paid, earned and owned media.The rise of digital mediaThe world was very different a decade and a half ago, with little or no existence of social media. The conversations on a brand were limited to offline or news portals and could not go viral on digital platforms within seconds. In the last few years, brands have closely observed the constant rise of digital platforms and tools which have gained immense popularity and attracted a major chunk of our population. Today, social media and digital channels are the key pillars for brands for driving awareness and building brand equity. Digital channels have revolutionized the communication landscape and compelled brands to integrate digital strategies into their communication plans. Most noticeably, they have ushered in an era marked by unprecedented transparency and accountability. As a result, brands have placed increased emphasis on these factors and devised unique plans to harness the true potential of digital platforms.However, in this post pandemic world, which is characterized as highly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) in nature, the landscape of corporate communications and reputation management is undergoing a dynamic transformation, and brands recognize the necessity ofadopting innovative and more focused approach to execute communication plans. Digital has become a ‘must have’ part of the communication strategy of brands.Criticality of adopting consumer-centric approachBrands must understand the fact that one-size-fits-all strategies are no longer efficacious. They must focus on adopting personalized communication strategies that can cater to the specific preferences and needs of all the stakeholders. For instance, the preferences of digital and print media audiences may vary, and we cannot  publish similar content for both categories. Creating unique messages that ensure maximum engagement of the target audience is important. Straight-jacketed approach is very yesterday and what will work for brands today is a personalized, humane approach to communications and brand reputation building. So how can this be done?The answer lies in leveraging the power of data that can offer valuable insights about the consumers’ behaviour, interests and purchasing patterns. This knowledge will empower us to craft personalized communication strategies and content that resonates on a personal level. From sending customized mails, recommending products to crafting social media messages, embracing personalized strategy will result in increased engagement and conversion while boosting consumer satisfaction and solidifying brand perception. The art of storytellingIn the era of information overload where consumers have low attention span, brands need to focus a lot more on storytelling to bring out interesting anecdotes that will appeal to the audience. There are numerous benefits of storytelling, in comparison to the dry and factual approach. With impactful stories, brands can reiterate their brand purpose and connect better with their audience. Also, it is important for a brand’s story to be consistent in tone, voice and overall messaging. This helps having a focused narrative and in turn, connect better with the customers.Gone are the days when actors used to enact a story or when showcasing a flowery and perfect world was important. Customers prefer real and authentic storytelling. Stories that are real are most believable and make the maximum impact.With customer attention span reducing with every passing day, it is recommended to explore various forms of content to showcase stories- from short videos to audio stories that can be heard on-the-go and shared easily. Also, building a content series with one new content piece, released every few weeks, can help drive higher engagement.Keeping digital communication at the centre of planningUndoubtedly, this is the digital age, and growth depends on how brands utilize digital platforms. Thankfully, India is among those countries which have adopted digital platforms and tools swiftly. The increasing preference of individuals, especially millennials and the GenZ, towards digital channels is evident, making digital communication strategies vital for the success of corporate communication efforts. These platforms today play a crucial role in shaping decisions of a majority of consumers.At the outset of 2023, India boasted an impressive digital landscape with a staggering 692 million internet users and 467 million active social media users.[i] For brands, this vast user base presents a golden opportunity to forge meaningful connections, assess the efficacy of their initiatives, and garner valuable insights for informed decision-making. With a strategic communication approach, brands can not only engage with these users effectively, but also nurture long-term relationships, paving the way for increased sales and revenue. Today, social media strategy is at the centre of the communication strategy of brands. Brands are leveraging various social media channels, putting together a robust communications and content roadmap specific for each channel, and leveraging owned media to create awareness and brand recall. Brands’ website has also emerged as important mediums for communicating with a diverse set of stakeholders. Additionally, senior leaders are also investing in leveraging their own social media channels to further amplify the brand narrative.Crisis management In addition to this these advantages, digital tools also present challenges that make digital strategies critical. For instance, the very freedom of expression that these platforms facilitate has rendered brand reputation exceptionally vulnerable. The absence of stringent regulations and mechanisms to authenticate platform users further compounds the concerns for brands. The potential for misinformation and the rapid spread of negative sentiment pose significant threats to a company's image.Digital media is a double-edged sword. On one side, it enables the brands to reach out to all their potential and existing customers across the world with a single post, on the other hand it can also have one post leading to a full-blown crisis. Also, with the rise of AI and other new-age technologies, fake news, misinformation and disinformation have become very common. Hence, it becomes important for brands to be adept in crisis management, so as to safeguard brand reputation. Companies build a good reputation in the market after long and dedicated efforts, however, a crisis can ruin it within a few minutes. To effectively address such situations, swift and strategic crisis messaging, infused with empathy, is essential. Brands that showcase agility in their response to unforeseen circumstances can mitigate potential damage and emerge stronger from crises. This requires a well-defined crisis communication plan with clearly carved out scenarios and suggested actions.Also, brands need to stay vigilant and create meticulous and effective corporate communication strategies to counter these challenges with positive storylines as well as capitalize on the huge potential of digital platforms. The most critical aspect of effective corporate communication is actively listening to stakeholders’ concerns. Brands often make a mistake by overlooking this part and concentrating only on their next big launch. In today’s fast paced world, there is a stringent need to pay attention to concerns, address them thoughtfully, and engage in a transparent dialogue. This effectively enhances the company's reputation and establishes a foundation for enduring relationships, positioning the organization as a trustworthy and reliable partner in the eyes of the stakeholders.Conclusion As we navigate through the challenges of the modern business realm, it becomes evident that strategic corporate communications with a focus on digital communication and impactful storytelling is not just a valuable asset but an indispensable driver of brand success. Beyond being a conduit for disseminating information, it acts as a catalyst for shaping perceptions, fostering connections, and fortifying the brand's position in the market. As we move forward, the ability to craft and execute communication strategies that align with the ever-changing dynamics externally will be pivotal for sustained success and resilience in the face of uncertainty.
https://theprpost.com/post/8859/

How to manage reputation in a post-truth era

Adgully, in association with CommsAdda, hosted the latest edition of #GullyChat on Friday, October 25, 2024. This edition of #GullyChat focused on ‘Managing Reputation in a Post-Truth Era: Tools and Techniques for PR Pros’.The esteemed participants included:Padmaja Konisetti, Communications ProfessionalSantanu Chakraborty, Corporate Communications Lead, BSE (Stock Exchange)Pooja Trehan, Head of PR & Content, Jio World CentreBhavna Imran, Communications Leader - South Asia, Corteva AgriscienceThe session began with a discussion on how PR professionals are leveraging data analytics to monitor and respond to public sentiment in real-time.Santanu Chakraborty suggested using analytics tools to track mentions, hashtags, and sentiment on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn for social media monitoring. According to him, this helps gauge public sentiment and identify emerging trends or issues quickly.”He further added, “For content tracking, analyze different types of content across channels. Understanding what resonates with the audience guides future communications. Brands need to implement natural language processing (NLP) algorithms to analyze sentiment online.”Padmaja Konisetti said, “Social listening and media monitoring tools play a huge role. They provide immediate access to public sentiment analysis, enabling us to monitor sentiment on various channels and craft our responses accordingly.”The conversation then moved towards how storytelling can be used as a tool for reputation management in an era saturated with misinformation.Bhavna Imran noted, “Storytelling can take many forms. A leader sharing an anecdote or personal narrative is one of my favourite approaches. It helps build a connection with the audience and elicits empathy.”Pooja Trehan emphasized on consistency and clarity. “Keep sharing your story with focused messaging at regular intervals. That’s probably why we remember the audio tune by Intel or the Amul Girl.”The panellists also discussed emerging technologies and tools that can assist PR professionals in navigating the complexities of the post-truth landscape.Trehan stressed on going back to the basics. “Read, research, network within the industry, and draft your own communications. While there’s no shortage of tools and technologies, often what’s missing is a simple, grounded approach.”Bhavna Imran added here, “Exploring sentiment heatmaps – visual representations of sentiment by region or demographic – allows us to track the spread and impact of misinformation so that we can tailor our responses.” She also highlighted the “power of many”, adding, “Crowdsourced fact-checking, if done right, can be very powerful!”Padmaja Konisetti said, “In addition to traditional and social media analytics tools, PR professionals should also explore influencer marketing and emerging tech, such as AI tools, to navigate this new landscape.”Talking about crisis management platforms, Santanu Chakraborty stressed on centralizing communication and response strategies during crises for quick coordination. “As far as Blockchain technology is concerned, one needs to ensure transparency and authenticity of information via secure, verifiable sources.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8858/

How Digit Insurance is owning the narrative of transforming doubt into delight

The process of filing a third party car insurance is considered to be a cumbersome and time consuming exercise in India, leaving many car owners in distress. Digit Insurance, also known as Go Digit General Insurance, aims to turn make this process simple and easy. It recently launched its new brand campaign, ‘That’s it!’, featuring brand ambassador Virat Kohli. The campaign sheds light on the transition from ‘Doubt to Delight’ when it comes to filing insurance claims and was launched ahead of Super 8 matches at the ICC T20 World Cup.The ad campaign intends to break the notion that making an insurance claim is a complicated process. It portrays the seamlessness and effortlessness of the submission of an insurance claim on Digit Insurance, transforming doubt into a matter of delight for the customers, further making them go ‘That’s It?’ in the end.The ad film Virat Kohli portraying the character of an uncle, who can be seen discussing with his niece about whether they can submit an insurance claim easily as three coconuts have fallen on their car, causing several dents and damage to the windshield. They then worry about the time consuming process that they may have to go through and call Digit Insurance Customer Care Executive, who tells them to just upload a video of the car damage on Digit Insurance, further informing that the claim gets submitted by that, which makes them exclaim “That’s it!” in surprise.In August, Digit Insurance launched the second ad of the ‘That’s It’ campaign, where Kohli and his niece face an unexpected challenge – their bike is vandalized by a monkey and the two-wheeler has a severely damaged seat plus several scratches on the vehicle. This time, too, an amiable customer service representative assures the duo that the claims submission process is very simple and requires them to just upload a video of the damage on the Digit Insurance app. This transforms the initial doubt and anxiety into delight as well as surprise, with Kohli and his niece exclaiming, “That’s It!” and the customer representative responding back “That’s Digit!”In conversation with Adgully, Tanya Marwah, Head – Marketing & Corporate Communications, Go Digit General Insurance, speaks about the core thought and concept behind the brand campaigns, the message that the campaign is conveying, the traction received, along with how Digit Insurance turns the doubt that people feel surrounding insurance claims submission into delight when they get to experience the seamless and easy process of filing a claim through Digit Insurance, and more.Could you shed light on the thought and concept behind the new campaign 'That's It' launched by Digit Insurance?The idea behind our new campaign, 'That's it, that's Digit', is an emotive expression of the moment of delight that we at Digit Insurance endeavor to create for our customers at the most critical part of the insurance journey i.e. claims!'That's it?' captures the shift from 'doubt to delight' for our customers. Typically, when people think about claims, they are filled with doubts: "Will my claim be accepted?" "How long will it take?" "Will there be tons of paperwork?" Our goal was to flip these expectations and changing this doubt to delight when customers experience Digit's simple, tech-driven claims process. It's that ultimate moment of realization — "That's it?" — where everything just works effortlessly and quickly, far beyond what they imagined.What is the message the campaign is trying to convey and what kind of traction has been received out of it?It has been received well in terms of customer feedback, and brand traction as well as our view-through rate is more than 50%, which is very positive.How does Digit Insurance turn the doubt that people feel surrounding insurance claims submission into delight when they get to experience the seamless and easy process of filing a claim through Digit Insurance?How would it feel when days are cut down to minutes? Probably that is what our customers feel too.Generally, when it comes to claims, people expect a lengthy procedure—of filling in multiple forms, providing multiple physical evidence, and waiting multiple days for their damages to be assessed.Let me take an example of car insurance specifically. Generally, when your car meets with an accident, one expects to fill in a physical form, get stamps in place, and so on for their claim to be registered. Post that, a physical surveyor is sent to assess damages. However, at Digit, we have simplified processes at every point. No physical claim forms are required. Our customers don’t need to do any kind of paperwork. The call that the customer makes to tell us about their damage is itself converted to a claim form, and the claim is quickly registered. And when it comes to damages, they can be assessed via our tech-enabled processes, wherein a customer can simply upload pictures or a video of their damaged car instead of waiting for a manual surveyor; a surveyor is typically used only in cases of excessive damage, theft or other situations that require further investigation. It is essentially processes like these that turn people’s doubts into delight.What differentiates Digit Insurance from its competitors and what are the strategies it employs to offer an enhanced customer experience establishing stronger relationships with the customers? What is the overall brand vision and mission of Digit Insurance?An insurance can truly differentiate itself based on the customer experience only. Having said that, the customer experience itself is based on the entire value chain. Right from policy buying smoothness, product benefits that are made for actually claiming, simply explained, simple buying process, simple issuance, endorsement (changes) process, and then of course the moment of truth, that is, claims! All these parts must be excelled.So, a Digit customer is offered products with real, differentiated benefits like no cap on room rent in case of hospitalization, 75-minute flight delay in case their domestic flight is delayed, as you-drive car insurance add-on that gives lower premium to people who drive less, and many such other benefits which people can benefit from. From a process POV, everything is digital, no waiting for a physical surveyor to come for a car inspection in case of a break-in policy (lapsed policy) or even a claim.Claims are processed with the uploading of videos of the vehicle, that’s it.This kind of turnaround time makes the experience delightful for people. There is no IVR, no physical proofs required (online copies do), and even behind the walls, at Digit’s end processes are AI & ML enabled, making some time-taking tasks quicker which further improves the timeline for the customer. Making insurance simple is our brand mission and vision. Our company values are, ‘questioning the status quo’ and ‘being transparent’ and these are reflected in our products and processes.What is the marketing/ media mix strategy of Digit Insurance and how has its TG evolved over the years?Digit insurance largely focusses on digital media, including live cricketing events and recently on select OTTs on the entertainment genre as well.On how our TG has evolved over the years, earlier we would focus primarily on top metro cities. However, now we have also started looking into smaller markets along as well.What are your observations on the current trends, challenges, opportunities, and threats in the two-wheeler insurance industry in India?Two-wheeler insurance is a huge segment for us. India has one of the highest number of two-wheelers in the world and 75% of Indians still travel via two-wheelers today. The segment has seen a pivot in recent years with electric two-wheeler vehicles entering the market. 55% of the EVs sold today are in the two-wheeler segment. While it is a huge opportunity, from an insurance point of view, they also come with their own set of underwriting challenges. It is an evolving segment and risks about EVs compared to an ICE vehicle will get better over time with more data and allow insurers to underwrite the risk better. However, insurance penetration is still low in India. 57% of the vehicles plying on Indian roads don't even have third-party insurance despite it being compulsory. This is a big gap that needs to be filled both through awareness and regulatory interventions. As this mandate picks up, insurance companies will see more growth from this segment.What was the reason for the collaboration with Virat Kohli as the brand ambassador for the campaign and which creative agency has conceptualized it? What was the creative brief given to them?Digit Insurance’s collaboration with Virat Kohli goes beyond this specific campaign. He has been our brand ambassador and investor for the last 4 years. In a category where trust is paramount, Virat Kohli adds a significant layer of credibility to the brand. His appeal transcends age groups, resonating with both children and adults alike. As the face of Digit, Virat embodies qualities that align with our brand’s personality: he’s cool, calm, fun, and relaxed, especially when he’s also seen dancing and having fun on the field – much like Digit, which, despite being in a serious industry maintains a light and approachable demeanor.For this campaign, Digit Insurance partnered with Supari Studios, part of Kulfi Collective, for both the creative strategy and production. The creative brief we provided focused on the idea that people generally perceive insurance, and especially the insurance claim experience, as complex. When they encounter a simple, smooth, and customer-oriented claims process, they are often surprised. Digit consistently creates this surprise with its innovative products and tech-driven simplicity, such as our video upload process for claims.Digit Insurance wanted to own the narrative of transforming doubt into delight within the insurance space, using surrealism as a creative device. Additionally, we infused real claim insights into the campaign stories, like the unexpectedly common occurrences of coconut damage to cars and monkey-related damage to two-wheelers.Could you throw light on the increasing importance of OTT for ad campaigns and the innovative marketing strategies used by Digit Insurance in the past few years?Over the years, Digit Insurance has largely focused our media on topical, cricketing events when it came to OTT as a medium. This was both because it tied in well with our target audience and our brand ambassador, Virat Kohli. However, we are now additionally exploring OTT platforms beyond just cricket, including entertainment too, and focussing on an “always on” strategy versus topicality.With a substantial user base of ~500 million, OTT platforms in India have become incredibly popular because they offer the flexibility to watch content whenever it's convenient. This relaxed viewing environment means people are less distracted, making it easier for us as a brand to leave a lasting impression on our target audience. Moreover, OTT platforms give us precise targeting based on demographics, geography, and behaviour, and most importantly give us efficient tools to measure campaign effectiveness through brand lift studies.
https://theprpost.com/post/8857/

How Digit Insurance is owning the narrative of transforming doubt into delight

The process of filing a third party car insurance is considered to be a cumbersome and time consuming exercise in India, leaving many car owners in distress. Digit Insurance, also known as Go Digit General Insurance, aims to turn make this process simple and easy. It recently launched its new brand campaign, ‘That’s it!’, featuring brand ambassador Virat Kohli. The campaign sheds light on the transition from ‘Doubt to Delight’ when it comes to filing insurance claims and was launched ahead of Super 8 matches at the ICC T20 World Cup.The ad campaign intends to break the notion that making an insurance claim is a complicated process. It portrays the seamlessness and effortlessness of the submission of an insurance claim on Digit Insurance, transforming doubt into a matter of delight for the customers, further making them go ‘That’s It?’ in the end.The ad film Virat Kohli portraying the character of an uncle, who can be seen discussing with his niece about whether they can submit an insurance claim easily as three coconuts have fallen on their car, causing several dents and damage to the windshield. They then worry about the time consuming process that they may have to go through and call Digit Insurance Customer Care Executive, who tells them to just upload a video of the car damage on Digit Insurance, further informing that the claim gets submitted by that, which makes them exclaim “That’s it!” in surprise.In August, Digit Insurance launched the second ad of the ‘That’s It’ campaign, where Kohli and his niece face an unexpected challenge – their bike is vandalized by a monkey and the two-wheeler has a severely damaged seat plus several scratches on the vehicle. This time, too, an amiable customer service representative assures the duo that the claims submission process is very simple and requires them to just upload a video of the damage on the Digit Insurance app. This transforms the initial doubt and anxiety into delight as well as surprise, with Kohli and his niece exclaiming, “That’s It!” and the customer representative responding back “That’s Digit!”In conversation with Adgully, Tanya Marwah, Head – Marketing & Corporate Communications, Go Digit General Insurance, speaks about the core thought and concept behind the brand campaigns, the message that the campaign is conveying, the traction received, along with how Digit Insurance turns the doubt that people feel surrounding insurance claims submission into delight when they get to experience the seamless and easy process of filing a claim through Digit Insurance, and more.Could you shed light on the thought and concept behind the new campaign 'That's It' launched by Digit Insurance?The idea behind our new campaign, 'That's it, that's Digit', is an emotive expression of the moment of delight that we at Digit Insurance endeavor to create for our customers at the most critical part of the insurance journey i.e. claims!'That's it?' captures the shift from 'doubt to delight' for our customers. Typically, when people think about claims, they are filled with doubts: "Will my claim be accepted?" "How long will it take?" "Will there be tons of paperwork?" Our goal was to flip these expectations and changing this doubt to delight when customers experience Digit's simple, tech-driven claims process. It's that ultimate moment of realization — "That's it?" — where everything just works effortlessly and quickly, far beyond what they imagined.What is the message the campaign is trying to convey and what kind of traction has been received out of it?It has been received well in terms of customer feedback, and brand traction as well as our view-through rate is more than 50%, which is very positive.How does Digit Insurance turn the doubt that people feel surrounding insurance claims submission into delight when they get to experience the seamless and easy process of filing a claim through Digit Insurance?How would it feel when days are cut down to minutes? Probably that is what our customers feel too.Generally, when it comes to claims, people expect a lengthy procedure—of filling in multiple forms, providing multiple physical evidence, and waiting multiple days for their damages to be assessed.Let me take an example of car insurance specifically. Generally, when your car meets with an accident, one expects to fill in a physical form, get stamps in place, and so on for their claim to be registered. Post that, a physical surveyor is sent to assess damages. However, at Digit, we have simplified processes at every point. No physical claim forms are required. Our customers don’t need to do any kind of paperwork. The call that the customer makes to tell us about their damage is itself converted to a claim form, and the claim is quickly registered. And when it comes to damages, they can be assessed via our tech-enabled processes, wherein a customer can simply upload pictures or a video of their damaged car instead of waiting for a manual surveyor; a surveyor is typically used only in cases of excessive damage, theft or other situations that require further investigation. It is essentially processes like these that turn people’s doubts into delight.What differentiates Digit Insurance from its competitors and what are the strategies it employs to offer an enhanced customer experience establishing stronger relationships with the customers? What is the overall brand vision and mission of Digit Insurance?An insurance can truly differentiate itself based on the customer experience only. Having said that, the customer experience itself is based on the entire value chain. Right from policy buying smoothness, product benefits that are made for actually claiming, simply explained, simple buying process, simple issuance, endorsement (changes) process, and then of course the moment of truth, that is, claims! All these parts must be excelled.So, a Digit customer is offered products with real, differentiated benefits like no cap on room rent in case of hospitalization, 75-minute flight delay in case their domestic flight is delayed, as you-drive car insurance add-on that gives lower premium to people who drive less, and many such other benefits which people can benefit from. From a process POV, everything is digital, no waiting for a physical surveyor to come for a car inspection in case of a break-in policy (lapsed policy) or even a claim.Claims are processed with the uploading of videos of the vehicle, that’s it.This kind of turnaround time makes the experience delightful for people. There is no IVR, no physical proofs required (online copies do), and even behind the walls, at Digit’s end processes are AI & ML enabled, making some time-taking tasks quicker which further improves the timeline for the customer. Making insurance simple is our brand mission and vision. Our company values are, ‘questioning the status quo’ and ‘being transparent’ and these are reflected in our products and processes.What is the marketing/ media mix strategy of Digit Insurance and how has its TG evolved over the years?Digit insurance largely focusses on digital media, including live cricketing events and recently on select OTTs on the entertainment genre as well.On how our TG has evolved over the years, earlier we would focus primarily on top metro cities. However, now we have also started looking into smaller markets along as well.What are your observations on the current trends, challenges, opportunities, and threats in the two-wheeler insurance industry in India?Two-wheeler insurance is a huge segment for us. India has one of the highest number of two-wheelers in the world and 75% of Indians still travel via two-wheelers today. The segment has seen a pivot in recent years with electric two-wheeler vehicles entering the market. 55% of the EVs sold today are in the two-wheeler segment. While it is a huge opportunity, from an insurance point of view, they also come with their own set of underwriting challenges. It is an evolving segment and risks about EVs compared to an ICE vehicle will get better over time with more data and allow insurers to underwrite the risk better. However, insurance penetration is still low in India. 57% of the vehicles plying on Indian roads don't even have third-party insurance despite it being compulsory. This is a big gap that needs to be filled both through awareness and regulatory interventions. As this mandate picks up, insurance companies will see more growth from this segment.What was the reason for the collaboration with Virat Kohli as the brand ambassador for the campaign and which creative agency has conceptualized it? What was the creative brief given to them?Digit Insurance’s collaboration with Virat Kohli goes beyond this specific campaign. He has been our brand ambassador and investor for the last 4 years. In a category where trust is paramount, Virat Kohli adds a significant layer of credibility to the brand. His appeal transcends age groups, resonating with both children and adults alike. As the face of Digit, Virat embodies qualities that align with our brand’s personality: he’s cool, calm, fun, and relaxed, especially when he’s also seen dancing and having fun on the field – much like Digit, which, despite being in a serious industry maintains a light and approachable demeanor.For this campaign, Digit Insurance partnered with Supari Studios, part of Kulfi Collective, for both the creative strategy and production. The creative brief we provided focused on the idea that people generally perceive insurance, and especially the insurance claim experience, as complex. When they encounter a simple, smooth, and customer-oriented claims process, they are often surprised. Digit consistently creates this surprise with its innovative products and tech-driven simplicity, such as our video upload process for claims.Digit Insurance wanted to own the narrative of transforming doubt into delight within the insurance space, using surrealism as a creative device. Additionally, we infused real claim insights into the campaign stories, like the unexpectedly common occurrences of coconut damage to cars and monkey-related damage to two-wheelers.Could you throw light on the increasing importance of OTT for ad campaigns and the innovative marketing strategies used by Digit Insurance in the past few years?Over the years, Digit Insurance has largely focused our media on topical, cricketing events when it came to OTT as a medium. This was both because it tied in well with our target audience and our brand ambassador, Virat Kohli. However, we are now additionally exploring OTT platforms beyond just cricket, including entertainment too, and focussing on an “always on” strategy versus topicality.With a substantial user base of ~500 million, OTT platforms in India have become incredibly popular because they offer the flexibility to watch content whenever it's convenient. This relaxed viewing environment means people are less distracted, making it easier for us as a brand to leave a lasting impression on our target audience. Moreover, OTT platforms give us precise targeting based on demographics, geography, and behaviour, and most importantly give us efficient tools to measure campaign effectiveness through brand lift studies.
https://theprpost.com/post/8827/

Havas sees slight dip in net revenue for Q3 2024

Havas reported a slight dip in its net revenue for Q3 2024, with a 0.5% decline from €654 million to €650 million, approximately $700 million, compared to the same period last year.Vivendi, Havas' parent company, did not disclose the agency’s organic growth for Q3, which would normally account for mergers, acquisitions, and currency changes. In Q2 2024, Havas' organic growth had contracted by 1.7%, according to Vivendi.Havas saw positive performance in Europe, where net revenue rose by 3.5% year-on-year to reach €320 million. Latin America also experienced strong growth, with a 9.6% increase, bringing revenue to €49 million. Yannick Bolloré, chairman of Vivendi’s supervisory board, and CEO Arnaud de Puyfontaine highlighted that Havas Media, alongside Europe and Latin America, drove much of the company's success.However, North America faced challenges, with net revenue falling by 8.6% to €219 million. Meanwhile, in the Asia-Pacific and African markets, Havas recorded a 3.2% rise, bringing revenue to €62 million.The Havas PR Network, which includes agencies like Havas PR, Havas Formula, Republica Havas, and One Green Bean, saw growth, aided by acquisitions contributing to 3% of the net revenue boost. Key acquisitions such as Uncommon Creative Studio, Eprofessional, Shortcut, and Ledger Bennett played notable roles in this.The report highlighted that Havas Media continued to show strong performance, while Havas Creative and Havas Health & You had mixed results commercially.For the first nine months of 2024, Havas' net revenue grew by 2.1% year-on-year, reaching €2 billion.Vivendi also confirmed progress on its plan to spin off Havas as a separate entity.
https://theprpost.com/post/8832/

Around the Clock Communications opens office in Abu Dhabi

After six successful years in Dubai and Lebanon, Around the Clock Communications (ATC) has strengthened its presence in the UAE with the opening of a new office in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City. Strategically located in Masdar City hailed by Cityscape Intelligence as the world’s most sustainable city the new Abu Dhabi office marks a pivotal milestone in ATC’s growth trajectory. The expansion is part of the company’s broader vertical and horizontal growth strategy.Since its inception in 2018, ATC has cultivated a strong reputation in the local market, becoming a trusted partner for prestigious clients such as COP28, Masdar, Zayed Sustainability Prize (ZSP), Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, and the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (BFAF).“We strive to be a leading name in the advertising, communications, and media industry, always pushing boundaries to exceed our clients' expectations,” says Rizk Naifeh, CEO and Co-Founder of ATC.Naifeh adds: “We are targeting 30% client growth, with a focus on acquiring new accounts in Abu Dhabi’s key industries such as Real Estate, Automotive, Sustainability, and the public sector. With our highly skilled and diverse team, including a promising Emirati member, we are confident in our ability to act as a strategic communications partner, delivering comprehensive and innovative solutions for both government and private sector clients.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8810/

ICR adopts new brand identity

ICR, a leading strategic communications and advisory firm, has announced a comprehensive brand update designed to provide a single, unified global identity across the firm’s core offering.Founded in 1998 by a team of former Wall Street analysts and rooted in a deep understanding of the how investors evaluate and determine value creation, ICR has since evolved to become a singularly-unique agency, providing communications advisory services at the intersection of Wall Street and corporate reputation, across all key corporate stakeholders and to companies at all stages of growth and development. With more than 400 team members organized into dedicated industry sector groups, across seven global offices, ICR provides highly-informed, consequential and integrated communications expertise focused on value creation.The updated branding reflects ICR’s continued growth and evolution as a fully-integrated strategic communications and advisory firm, offering clients a full suite of services including investor relations, public relations, corporate and crisis communications, transaction and special situations advisory, capital markets advisory, ESG and shareholder activism advisory solutions, digital and social media services, and event planning and management.Tom Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of ICR, commented: “As ICR continues to grow organically and through strategic acquisitions, we recognized the need to create a unified identity that showcases the full breadth of our capabilities while maintaining the trust and reputation we’ve built over 26 years. The new brand reflects our enhanced global capabilities and underscores our unique value proposition focused on providing the most comprehensive and innovative communications solutions in the industry with an integrated and sector-specific approach that not only delivers value to our clients but is strategically focused on helping them create value.”Key elements of the brand update include:• New Visual Identity: A modernized logo and color scheme that embodies ICR’s differentiated approach, Wall Street and capital markets roots, and comprehensive service offering.• Unified Messaging: A cohesive narrative that articulates ICR’s expanded value proposition across all communication disciplines and industry sectors.• Integrated Service Offerings: A streamlined presentation of ICR’s full suite of services, emphasizing the synergies across the full spectrum of services.• Enhanced Digital Presence: A new website and social media presence that reflects ICR’s integrated approach to value creation, sector-specific expertise and distinct thought leadership.The brand refresh follows a series of successful acquisitions and service expansions that have significantly broadened and enhanced ICR’s global capabilities and reach in recent years including:Healthcare Public & Investor Relations:• Acquired Westwicke Partners, North America’s leading healthcare-focused IPO advisor and investor relations firm, in 2019 and Consilium Strategic Communications, a leading international strategic healthcare communications firm focused on Europe and headquartered in London, in 2023. Combined with ICR’s legacy healthcare business, the group forms a global healthcare strategic and financial communications powerhouse with nearly 200 clients and more than 100 team members across three continents and every communications discipline operating under the name, ICR Healthcare.Technology Public & Investor Relations:• Acquired Lumina Communications, an award-winning B2B technology-focused public relations firm specializing in cybersecurity, enterprise software and IT infrastructure in 2023, combining with ICR’s existing technology public and investor relations practices, significantly enhancing the firm’s capabilities and broadening its service offerings. The unified technology team will operate under the ICR Technology name.Capital Markets Advisory:• ICR Capital, originally established in 2015 has expanded its capabilities and team to advise corporate management teams, financial sponsors, venture capital firms and boards of directors across all categories of capital markets transactions including IPOs, public equity offerings and convertible and equity derivatives transactions.ESG & Shareholder Advisory• ICR’s ESG team has continued to expand and enhance its focus with a growing emphasis on advising public issuers in a range of complex and contested shareholder events that require an intimate understanding of and ability to communicate and engage with the passive investment community.Investor Access• ICR has leveraged technology, data analytics and its extensive knowledge and understanding of the investment community buy-side to develop an independent and issuer-centric advisory platform to provide best-in-class investor targeting and outreach.
https://theprpost.com/post/8784/

Edelman elevates Anthony Chelvanathan to Global Creative Partner

Edelman has promoted Anthony Chelvanathan to Global Creative Partner. As Edelman’s first ever Global Creative Partner, Chelvanathan will work alongside Global Chief Creative Officer Judy John, driving creative excellence across the firm’s top clients and greatest opportunities. He retains his Chief Creative Officer role for Edelman Canada.“The importance of creative excellence has never been greater. As generative AI leads to more and more content flooding the feeds, earning attention in culture has become critical for brands and companies,” says Judy John. “Edelman’s creative offering was built for this moment – we know the power of creativity in earning a brand’s place in culture and solidifying its reputation. And with the incredible talent of Anthony Chelvanathan as Global Creative Partner we will continue to elevate our work for clients across the globe.”Partnering with regional CCOs, Global ECDs and client teams, Chelvanathan will accelerate creative excellence across the business, focused on driving consistency of creative standards and elevation of the firm’s work. In his nearly four years with Edelman, Anthony has helped teams focus on excellence in idea, execution and craft, leading to some of the agency’s most recognized work that drive change for both business and society including IKEA’s SHT Tax campaign, Allegra Airways and Dove #KeepTheGrey.“Being appointed to this role is very humbling and I’m honoured to be championing idea-driven work that pushes our clients’ business goals forward at an agency that understands the power of creativity in culture,” says Chelvanathan. “I believe in the power of helping people be the best at what they do. This journey is proof that with the right combination of passion, hard-work, opportunity, and awesome people around you, nothing can stop you from getting to where you want to be. Even if your journey begins as a small Sri Lankan immigrant kid with big dreams.”This announcement follows a stunning creative year for Edelman highlighted by its performance at the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, being named the Independent Agency of the Year on the Good Track, ranking second place for Independent Network of the Year and earning the firm's first Titanium Lion win, for DP World Move to -15.Chelvanthan has begun his new role effectively immediately, reporting to Judy John.
https://theprpost.com/post/8765/

Mythily Nair's approach on storytelling in healthcare

In our latest edition of our PR ACE column, spotlighting young PR leaders, we feature Mythily Nair, VP of Communications at UE LifeSciences. She shares communication strategies implemented to raise awareness about the company's mission and the unique challenges of discussing medical devices and cancer detection. Nair reflects on how her agency background has shaped her approach and recounts her experience navigating a communication crisis, including lessons learned. She also discusses anticipated trends in the medical devices industry regarding communication and branding, as well as balancing business results with creative branding and communication efforts, and more. UE LifeSciences is known for its innovative approach to early cancer detection. Can you share how the company differentiates itself in this critical space and what communication strategies you have implemented to raise awareness about UE LifeSciences and its mission?UE LifeSciences has been in the early detection game for well over 16 years. We operate like a startup, and have the mindset, the hustle and most importantly, an uncomplicated way of going about things. It’s simple- cancer sucks. We can quite clearly see a catastrophe coming our way. Our founders spent a long time developing, implementing, and testing these solutions, and have had immense success in the B2G and B2B spaces. I think our approach in going patient access and comfort first, is what sets us apart from our competitors- we always wanted to ensure that the device reached the women, and that it wasn’t the other way around. To ensure that this is effectively communicated, we’ve gone for a three-pronged approach- one, to maintain our very grassroots-level approach where screening camps and ensure coverage in vernacular newspapers; second, to plan the positioning of senior leadership as key opinion leaders in English dailies; and finally, trying new and innovative approaches partnering with docuseries houses like BBC Storyworks. We have some exciting projects coming up, so stay tuned! What unique challenges do you face when communicating about medical devices and cancer detection, and how do you overcome them?So many! For starters, there’s an immense gap in REALLY educating the population about breast cancer. In the decades past, campaigns to associate the pink ribbon with Breast Cancer Awareness Day have succeeded in making pink synonymous with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Monuments light up around the world, but what do folks know about incidence rates? About chances of survival, if you find it early? About the current legislative conversations happening around the world surrounding breast tissue density? Most folks (including myself, until a few months ago) don’t know about Triple Negative breast cancer, one of the deadliest types. Breast cancer awareness, unfortunately, has been packaged and sealed into a really pretty CSR project for large firms to spend their budgets on. But to say you support Breast Cancer Awareness Month is one thing- but you don’t educate or help the populations around you know what they need to do. With medical devices, the problem is twofold. You want to explain the technology in a way that highlights the innovation, but also simplifies it for all audiences, regardless of their background. For both issues, we’ve found that the easiest way to tackle it, is simplify and story tell. Explaining breast cancer awareness sessions in vernacular languages, with simple imagery, or a treatment protocol interactively, with storytelling. We believe in telling universal stories that highlight a sense of community, and that when women feel a sense of community, they take everyone forward with them. Having experience in both agency and in-house roles, how do you think your agency background has influenced your approach to communications at UE LifeSciences?Agency shapes work ethic. With agency life, you had no time to get attached to a project or a pitch. If something doesn’t work, you have to scrap it and move on to turn something around. I think that approach is what I’ve brought with me to UE LifeSciences- I remember telling my bosses early on that I will come up with ideas, we will try things out- if it works and you like it, great. If it doesn’t, we scrap it and try again. All I asked for was the freedom to try and to experiment. I’m really grateful that they’ve trusted me with the same. Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a communication crisis? What did you learn from that situation? What trends do you foresee in the medical devices industry, particularly in communication and branding, over the next few years?I think medical devices will have an overhaul in terms of communications and branding, leaning towards more transparent, consumer centric communications. With Millennials slowly becoming more financially stable, considering that they were the first of the internet generations, they are more media literate, and they will ask critical questions around efficacy, access and affordability, demanding transparency. It’s an exciting time! What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to build a career in communications and branding?Learn around it! I’m fairly green myself, but I’ve always relied on my understanding of areas around communications (like sociology, politics, economics) to inform my communications and branding strategy. It’s important to be well informed in today’s world, so having a well-rounded perspective of why one strategy may work can ensure a holistic lens is applied when you pitch a campaign! How do you balance the need for business results with the creative aspects of branding and communication?That’s a tough one. I generally to take a call in tandem with my founders and the needs they have operationally, but most of the time, I balance it by focusing on any pressing events or announcements we have in the next 6 months, and work backwards, allocating priority/importance to each event, and taking a call from there. I believe there’s merit to a slow-burning brand building exercise. Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a communication crisis? What did you learn from that situation?Navigating a communications crisis is never easy. But from the ones I’ve experienced, here are a few valuable pieces of advice I’ve picked up in my time. In the event of a communications crisis, maintaining composure and strategic action are paramount. Based on experience, I recommend the following approach: Assessment and Strategy: Before initiating any external communication, take time to gather all relevant information and assess the situation's scope and severity. Develop a clear plan of action that can be communicated internally and externally. Accountability and Transparency: Prepare a preliminary statement acknowledging the issue directly and transparently. This demonstrates accountability and a commitment to addressing the situation. While working on a more comprehensive response, this initial statement can help manage immediate public perception. Remember, a well-managed crisis response can strengthen brand trust and reputation in the long run.
https://theprpost.com/post/8772/

Tribes Communication triumphs at Dragons of Asia 2024 Awards

At the prestigious 24th Edition of the Dragons of Asia 2024 Awards held on October 18th in Kuala Lumpur, Tribes Communication, a leading integrated marketing communications agency, achieved remarkable recognition. In addition to being named India’s top agency, it ranked at second in the continent. These distinct rankings are attributed to Tribes, in collaboration with its esteemed partners winning the coveted Blue Dragon for Best Campaign in India and Gold Dragons for Best Brand Loyalty Campaign and Best Marketing Discipline Campaign. In total, Tribes in collaboration with its partners, brought home eight prestigious awards, which also included two Silver, and three Black Dragon recognitions, apart from the above. The Silver Dragons were awarded for Best Product Launch and Best Use of Media, while Black Dragon honors were given for Best Brand Loyalty Campaign, Best Innovative Idea, and Best Small Budget Campaign.The Dragons of Asia Awards are renowned for recognizing the best marketing communications work across the APAC region, with a focus on creativity that drives tangible business results. Tribes Communication’s triumph at one of Asia’s most elite marketing communications’ honors since 2000, reflects its dedication to producing groundbreaking campaigns across diverse sectors. Gour Gupta, Managing Director and CEO of Tribes Communication, said, "We are extremely happy to have been bestowed with this double honor at the Dragons of Asia 2024. This is a special moment for us as it is a celebration of our incredible campaigns that have earned accolades across different categories. It is a testament to the power of collaboration with our partners and clients and the hard work of our teams and has enabled us to deliver winning campaigns consistently.” The Dragons of Asia Director, Mike Da Silva, said, “This year’s international Judging Panels, representing 22 Countries, reported that the 24th Dragons of Asia Programme generated a quality of entries never seen before. Along with winning multiple awards – including the prestigious Blue Dragon for the best campaign in India, as well as Gold, Silver, and Black Dragon recommendations – Tribes ranked number one in India and second in Asia, making them standout agency of the year.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8718/

Communications+ Strategy: A Gamechanger in Transforming Mining Mindsets

Mining has long been at the center of debate, given the challenge of balancing industrial growth with the need for sustainable environmental protection. In an era where stakeholders demand accountability, the mining industry faces dual challenges: dispelling longstanding misconceptions while demonstrating its commitment to responsible practices. Once viewed as supplementary, communications have now evolved into a strategic force within the mining industry. It plays a pivotal role in building bridges, fostering dialogue, and shaping a positive image. This evolution has shifted mining companies from being reactive to becoming proactive in their engagement with stakeholders. The transformative power of communications lies in its ability to translate an organization's commitments to responsible business practices, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic development into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders. The rise of digital and social media platforms has democratized access to information, enabling a shift from a conservative, minimalist approach to real-time communication. This enhances transparency, builds trust, and strengthens relationships, positively impacting business outcomes. A study by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) found that companies with strong community engagement programs experience fewer operational disruptions and enjoy greater community support. There are several reasons causing the media landscape to shift and reliance on traditional print media giving way to digital and social platforms. Subscriptions to newspapers are declining, while social media usage is growing exponentially. This demographic shift is particularly evident among users aged 25-55, where social media engagement far outpaces newspaper readership. As a result, social media now lies at the heart of narrative building and stakeholder engagement. This shift calls for a complete overhaul of traditional communications approaches, with the implementation of an impactful "Communications+" strategy. Going further, this strategy entails posting content on official websites and social media channels with an additional focus on making a calibrated shift toward direct engagement with internal and external stakeholders. Utilizing platforms like WhatsApp, with content tailored to regional languages and aimed at last-mile connectivity, is increasingly gaining ground. This direct outreach is particularly effective during crises, helping to quell misinformation and manage alternative narratives swiftly. "Communications+", which is built on the principle of last-mile connectivity, also uses offline tools like information banners and flyers to create an emotional connection with target audiences.  As environmental concerns take center stage globally, the mining industry faces heightened scrutiny. Here, communication serves as a crucial bridge between sustainability efforts and public perception. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has evolved from a niche activity into a core element of corporate strategy. A key component of the "Communications+" strategy is the "PR Bridge." While CSR initiatives and targeted events have their own frequency, communication leaders must plan PR events that emphasize the benefits of these initiatives. It is crucial to maintain visibility and keep the narrative active until the next wave of initiatives is rolled out. A prominent example of how communications in the mining sector has moved beyond its traditional role, is the Minerals Council of Australia's "This is Mining" digital campaign, which highlights the positive contributions of the mining sector to the Australian economy and society. It is particularly satisfying to observe that communications is now deeply integrated with business objectives in the mining industry, with companies measuring the impact of their efforts on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as brand reputation, stakeholder sentiment, and social license to operate. For instance, Anglo American’s Socio-Economic Assessment Toolbox (SEAT) offers a comprehensive framework for managing the socio-economic impacts of mining projects. Communications has also played a strategic role in the mining industry, by helping secure environmental clearances by rallying stakeholder support and achieving accurate sustainability ratings. By showcasing their commitment to environmental and social responsibility, companies can enhance their reputations and attract investors focused on sustainable practices. The S&P Sustainability Index, for example, factors corporate communications practices into its ratings. Looking into the future, the mining industry's ability to evolve hinges on its capacity to communicate effectively and transparently with a broad spectrum of stakeholders. The "Communications+" strategy offers a transformative approach, embracing both digital innovation and direct engagement to build trust, manage perceptions, and highlight the sector's commitment to responsible practices. As environmental and social expectations continue to rise, mining companies that prioritize authentic, proactive communication will not only strengthen their reputations but also secure a more sustainable future. By reshaping how the industry is perceived, corporate communications can truly transform the mining mindscape.
https://theprpost.com/post/8698/

Festive Buzz: Maximize Your Diwali Campaign with Innovative Marketing Strategies

Authored by – Chetan Relhan, Founder and CEO, The Achievers PRThe festive season is one of the most lucrative times for businesses, particularly for online retailers who see a significant surge in traffic and sales. With consumer enthusiasm running high, it’s the perfect time to implement innovative marketing strategies that maximize sales potential. In today’s digital era, staying ahead of the competition requires upgrading your marketing techniques to resonate with the season’s celebratory spirit while ensuring that you’re capturing the attention of eager shoppers. 1. Leverage Data-Driven PersonalizationPersonalization is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Modern consumers expect businesses to understand their preferences and offer tailor-made experiences. Leveraging data-driven insights can help online businesses create personalized recommendations, offers, and messaging. By analyzing customer behavior, purchase history, and browsing patterns, businesses can segment their audience and design targeted marketing campaigns that speak directly to individual preferences. Personalized emails, for instance, can showcase specific festive offers based on past purchases or browsing history. Platforms like Amazon have mastered this, and smaller businesses can follow suit by implementing AI-powered recommendations on their websites and apps. 2. Create Festive-Themed Content and PromotionsFestive-themed content is one of the most effective ways to tap into the emotional and celebratory aspects of the season. Creating visually appealing ads, videos, and banners that align with the festive mood can instantly capture the attention of potential buyers. Consider running holiday-specific promotions, contests, and giveaways that encourage engagement across social media platforms. Seasonal storytelling in your content can also create a connection with your audience. Share stories of how your brand or products are part of people’s celebrations. For instance, a fashion brand can create a video showing how their clothing line can be styled for festive occasions. Engaging narratives and festive-themed content help customers associate your brand with the joy and excitement of the season. 3. Implement Dynamic Pricing StrategiesThe festive season is synonymous with discounts and deals, making it the ideal time to adopt dynamic pricing strategies. By adjusting prices in real time based on demand, competition, and customer behavior, businesses can maximize their profit margins while remaining competitive. Offering limited-time deals, flash sales, and exclusive discounts not only attracts shoppers but also instills a sense of urgency, prompting quicker purchasing decisions. Incorporating scarcity techniques, such as showing how many items are left in stock or running countdown timers, can further motivate customers to act fast. Creating bundles or package deals is another way to increase average order value while providing customers with perceived savings. 4. Optimize for Mobile Shopping ExperienceWith the increasing reliance on smartphones for shopping, it’s crucial to ensure your online store is fully optimized for mobile devices. Mobile commerce (m-commerce) is booming, and during the festive season, customers will likely be shopping on the go. Ensure that your website is mobile-friendly, with fast loading times, intuitive navigation, and a seamless checkout process. Consider creating a dedicated mobile app if your business doesn’t already have one. An app can provide a smoother and more personalized shopping experience, and push notifications can remind users of festive offers, abandoned carts, or exclusive deals. Offering easy payment options such as mobile wallets, UPI, and one-click checkouts also enhances the shopping experience, encouraging users to complete their purchases. 5. Incorporate AR and VR for Enhanced Customer EngagementAugmented Reality and Virtual Reality are emerging technologies that offer immersive shopping experiences. They can be game-changers during the festive season, enabling customers to visualize products before purchasing. These tech-driven strategies not only enhance engagement but also build consumer confidence, leading to higher conversion rates.  6. Leverage Social Media and Influencer CollaborationsSocial media platforms are where festive conversations and trends thrive, and businesses should capitalize on this by crafting campaigns that encourage engagement. Interactive campaigns, product reviews, festive hauls, or even sharing personal Diwali stories, and festive countdowns, keep your audience engaged. Additionally, running paid ad campaigns targeting relevant demographics ensures that your brand reaches a wider audience during this busy season. This could include product reviews, festive hauls, styling tips, or even sharing personal Diwali stories, all while subtly promoting your brand’s products. Collaborating with influencers is another way to maximize visibility. Influencers can create authentic, relatable content that showcases your products in festive settings. These collaborations can drive traffic to your online store and build trust among their followers, making it easier to convert them into customers. 7. Focus on Customer Experience and RetentionWhile acquiring new customers is essential, retaining existing ones should be a key focus, especially during the festive season. Providing exceptional customer service, offering loyalty rewards, and simplifying the shopping experience can turn first-time buyers into long-term customers. Offering free shipping, easy returns, and gift-wrapping options adds value to the customer experience, making it more likely that shoppers will choose your business over competitors. Post-purchase engagement, such as sending thank-you emails or offering exclusive discounts for future purchases, can also encourage repeat business. ConclusionMaximizing your Diwali campaign with innovative marketing strategies requires a mix of personalization, technology, and creativity. From leveraging AR and social commerce to collaborating with influencers and launching interactive campaigns, the opportunities to stand out and drive festive sales are vast. Let your marketing campaign reflect the energy and joy of Diwali, and watch as your sales soar this festive season!
https://theprpost.com/post/8697/

Arlene Winnick, Veteran Hollywood Publicist, Dies at 77

Arlene Winnick, a seasoned Hollywood publicist who represented high-profile clients such as Universal Studios Hollywood and TCL Chinese Theatre throughout her career spanning over three decades, passed away on October 1 in Beverly Hills following a prolonged illness. Publicist Jerry Digney, who worked closely with Winnick, credited her as a key part of Solters & Digney and later Digney & Co. Public Relations.Winnick played a significant role in the entertainment industry for more than 30 years. Early in her career, she helped pioneer marketing and publicity campaigns for the then-emerging home video industry, contributing to the success of popular exercise tapes featuring Richard Simmons, Jane Fonda, and Zsa Zsa Gabor.Throughout her career, she worked as a consultant for several independent PR firms and the Digney team on notable entertainment accounts. Her clients included Universal Studios Hollywood, Madame Tussauds Hollywood and Las Vegas, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, the Carousel of Hope gala, TCL Chinese Theatres Hollywood, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.In her later years, Winnick worked on handprint-footprint ceremonies at the TCL Chinese Theatre for iconic figures such as James Cameron, Jon Landau, Keanu Reeves, and the cast of the Avengers films.Beyond Hollywood, Winnick's more than 35 years of PR experience extended to the food, restaurant, and travel/tourism industries. Her clients included renowned names like Raffles L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, BeautifulPlaces, Le Meridien Beverly Hills (now the SLS Hotel), RanchWeb, Paradisio de la Bonita, Ceiba del Mar, Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa in Mexico, Wyndam Bel Age (now The London West Hollywood), Madison and Mulholland (luxury events and celebrity gifting), Lake Arrowhead Resort + Spa, Johnnie Walker, and Westlake Village Inn.Since 2012, Winnick had also been a senior writer for L.A. Arts Online, where she covered and reviewed more than 50 events and shows. Additionally, she volunteered with Project Angel Food. A native of Great Neck, New York, Winnick was preceded in death by her partner of 20 years, Richard Schulenberg.She is survived by two sons, Jon and Andrew Gladston; a brother, Larry Beer; a daughter-in-law, Leslie; two stepdaughters, Katie and Amy, along with her husband Chris; and seven grandchildren, Jacob, Talia, Harper, Lucy, Elenor, Kalan, and Pono.
https://theprpost.com/post/8675/

HAVAS Red expands into Greece through partnership with Solid Havas

Global PR agency HAVAS Red (formerly Red HAVAS), has announced a partnership with SOLID HAVAS to provide enhanced merged media communications support to clients in Greece. SOLID HAVAS has been a valued affiliate of HAVAS in Greece since 2017. One of the country’s foremost consultancies, SOLID HAVAS offers fully integrated communications solutions to clients across multiple industry sectors. Ioanna Leoussi, managing partner of SOLID HAVAS, will lead the partnership with HAVAS Red. “Bigger, better, bolder and more borderless — that’s how HAVAS Red continues to grow each year,” said James Wright, global CEO of HAVAS Red and global chairman of the HAVAS PR Network. “Expanding into India and Africa last year was a significant milestone for us, opening doors to very exciting regions. Now we’re thrilled to extend our footprint into Greece, where our HAVAS colleagues are already delivering outstanding, outcome-led work with iconic clients, and we look forward to providing enhanced PR and social support to continue driving innovation and excellence.” Rachael Sansom, CEO of HAVAS Red Europe and UK, added: “We have continued to grow our commercials and profile across the region, amassing a stellar client base in Europe. SOLID HAVAS has been a terrific partner and having them part of HAVAS Red will enable us to build and strengthen our value proposition across the region.” “We’ve been fortunate to work already with a wonderful portfolio of clients across HAVAS in Greece and Europe, and this expansion represents a significant milestone for us. With this new chapter, we are poised to be even more powerful and integrated partners for these clients on everything from social media to experiential to public relations,” said Ioanna Leoussi, managing partner of SOLID HAVAS. Earlier this year,?HAVAS Red announced its market entry in Japan and the Ivory Coast (its second office in Africa). The addition of Greece brings HAVAS Red’s presence to 20 markets, including Australia, China, Cote d’Ivoire, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Middle East (U.A.E., Saudi Arabia and Oman), the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, the U.K., the U.S. and Vietnam.  2023 marked another period of strong growth and performance for HAVAS Red, which was named Campaign’s?Global PR Network of the Year and shortlisted for Global Agency of the Year in the PRWeek Global and PRWeek Purpose awards. In?Australia, India, the Middle East, Spain and the U.S.,?HAVAS Red also took home Agency of the Year honors. The agency’s roster of clients include Toyota, Pernod Ricard, adidas, Domino’s, Far East Hospitality, Sun Life, Yuu, Merex Investment, Galderma, Sanofi, Novartis, the U.K. Department of Education, IKEA Foundation, Molson Coors, Meltwater, ManpowerGroup, UNICEF, Baddoo and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, among others.  In August 2024, HAVAS Red introduced Industry by HAVAS Red, an end-to-end strategic communications service designed to help B2B clients drive meaningful connections with audiences across their value chain. Other global offerings from HAVAS Red include Peaks, its award-winning multichannel executive branding support; SWAY by HAVAS Red, an end-to-end influencer marketing service; Red Impact, a global offering that brings together its ESG and sustainability expertise; Health by HAVAS Red, a specialized offering focused on health and wellness; and Red Connect, a B2B content marketing practice.
https://theprpost.com/post/8662/

The PC Agency expands global presence with new teams

The PC Agency, a leading luxury travel PR and trade marketing consultancy based in London, has recently expanded its global footprint by establishing new teams in Dubai, Riyadh, Sydney, and New York. This move is a part of the agency’s ambitious strategy to strengthen its presence in key international markets and better serve its growing client base in the travel and hospitality sectors.As part of this expansion, Sydney-based Katie Moine has been appointed Managing Director of Asia Pacific and Middle East. With an extensive background in travel marketing and PR, Katie is well-positioned to lead the agency's operations in these regions, bringing over two decades of experience in the industry. Additionally, Nicole Trakkas has taken on the role of Vice President for the Middle East, based out of Dubai, to enhance the firm’s capabilities in this strategic region.The PC Agency, founded by Paul Charles, is recognized for its expertise in representing high-end travel brands such as airlines, hotels, and tourism boards. The agency is also known for its award-winning campaigns and crisis communication strategies, having built a strong reputation in both the traditional and digital arenas.
https://theprpost.com/post/8638/

Microsoft taps Boden to boost Hispanic outreach

Microsoft has selected Boden Agency as its PR agency of record to strengthen its connection with the Hispanic community in the U.S. Through this partnership, Boden will collaborate with Microsoft's multicultural communications team to create and execute PR initiatives that effectively engage this key audience. The agency was chosen following a competitive pitch process.Boden’s role will involve supporting Microsoft's internal team with earned media relations, creator engagement, and digital content development. In addition, they will help implement Microsoft's long-term communications strategy, focusing on enhancing the company's brand affinity with the Hispanic community.A key aspect of Boden's work will be to enhance the digital reach and presence of Conexiones, Microsoft's storytelling hub, which emphasizes education and audience engagement.“We’re thrilled to partner with Boden Agency to evolve our communications strategies with this pivotal audience. Our intention is to more closely connect Microsoft’s mission of empowering everyone on the planet to achieve more, with the needs of the Hispanic community in the US,” said Amanda O’Neal, Microsoft’s senior director of multicultural and social media communications. “As our strategic communications partner, Boden’s concentrated, sustained, and culture-first approach will expand our strategic storytelling to bring the community closer to the latest technology, including AI.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8610/

W Communications expands to Iceland with new office

Independent agency W Communications is expanding its global footprint with the opening of its fourth international office in Iceland, operating under the name W/Nordic.The agency had previously collaborated on projects in Iceland with consulting firm Instrument and advertising agency Brandenburg. The new office, located in Reykjavik, will be led by Kristjáni Schram, Vice-President of W/Nordic, who will oversee a team of two full-time employees at launch. Schram will continue his role as lead strategist and partner at Instrument. Lucy Austin, W's International Vice President, based in London, will coordinate the operations across all global offices.W Communications owner, Warren Johnson, explained that the new venture will allow Icelandic companies to leverage W’s extensive global network, which includes operations in London, New York, and Singapore. It will also provide global brands with a strong presence in the Nordic region.“We have seen a huge appetite from Icelandic brands and companies in further globalising their business, not only from a commercial point of view, but sharing the wealth of innovation and ingenuity they provide,”* said Johnson. *“The country's geographical position also provides a natural connective opportunity between North America and Europe, especially in the Nordic countries.”Johnson emphasized the importance of local insights for global campaigns, saying, “Global campaigns are most effective when informed by hyper-local insights and activated through trusted partners, which is why our collaboration with Instrument is an important link in our plans in Iceland.”W Communications now boasts a global team of around 200, working with renowned brands such as Sony, Unilever, British Airways, and Disney.
https://theprpost.com/post/8607/

BC Web Wise wins Social Media Mandate for TATA Power

BC Web Wise has been awarded the end-to-end social media mandate for TATA Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, in a partnership set to redefine how the brand engages with its audience across digital platforms.As a leader in the energy sector, TATA Power has been at the forefront of innovation, particularly in the renewable energy space. The company has been increasingly focusing on digital transformation to connect with a broader audience and foster a community that supports green initiatives. The social media mandate awarded to BC Web Wise is thus a crucial part of this transformation, aiming to leverage social platforms to drive engagement, build trust, and communicate TATA Power’s commitment to a sustainable future.
https://theprpost.com/post/8577/

Shridevi Shetty takes on Account Director role at Strategic Growth Advisors

Shridevi Shetty has assumed the role of Account Director - PR Practice at Strategic Growth Advisors Pvt. Ltd. In her new position, Shetty will oversee the company’s public relations initiatives, bringing her extensive experience in communication and strategic brand management to the forefront.With a solid background that includes her previous role as Partner at Eskay Construction and Senior Manager - Human Resources at Trizone India, Shetty’s expertise is expected to drive impactful PR strategies and strengthen client relationships. Her new responsibilities align with the company’s focus on enhancing its communication solutions and delivering effective results for its clients.
https://theprpost.com/post/8574/

Entrust Family Office Onboards TMM as Strategic Communications Partner

Entrust Family Office, a boutique multi-family office offering succession and legacy planning to high-net-worth individuals, proudly announces its strategic partnership with The Media Manifest, a leading PR agency renowned for its innovative communication strategies. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Entrust in fortifying its communication strategies and amplifying its presence in the investment and personal finance space. The Media Manifest will oversee Entrust’s presence in the media. Through this partnership, the agency aims to focus on effectively communicating the company’s pioneering advancements and contributions to the future of family offices. Founded in 2013, Entrust provides a holistic overview of succession planning, real estate property management, accounting, taxation, concierge services, and more. The company has single family and multifamily office services as well as personal investment management. The SEBI registered investment advisory firm is currently handling AUM worth INR 10,000 Cr and boasts of an impressive clientele of HNIs from Forbes top 100 families, including Nandan Nilekani, Co-founder of Infosys. The company specializes in a relationship-first approach where they offer tailor-made services based on the unique needs of every family. Kinjal Shah, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, shared her enthusiasm: “Partnering with Entrust presents a unique opportunity to shape the narrative within the Family Office sector. Leveraging our communication expertise, we aim to enhance their visibility and position them as thought leaders, driving the conversation on the future of investment and personal finance.” The Media Manifest is a boutique Public Relations and Digital Media agency, founded by Kinjal Shah and Nupur Maheshwari in 2021. Having a focused approach in the new age space, TMM offers tailored public relations and digital solutions in the rapidly shifting ecosystem by driving the brand narrative to achieve maximum impact. Their expertise lies in strategic analysis, collaborations, and creative outlook from the brand’s perspective. Headquartered in Mumbai, the agency provides solutions like Reputation Management, Crisis Communication, Strategic Consultation, and Influencer Marketing. The practices are centered around BFSI, Wealth Management, Personal Finance, Technology, Startup, Blockchain and Hospitality amongst other spaces. 
https://theprpost.com/post/8560/

Mayank Singh promoted to Chief Marketing Officer at Domino's Indonesia

Mayank Singh has become the Chief Marketing Officer at Dominos Indonesia. Prior to Domino's he was the Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Sminq - Doctor Appointments. He has been associated with organisations such as Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, GORB, Jubilant Foodworks Ltd, Tekriti Software, Times Business Solution Ltd, NDTV. He is an alumnus of The Wharton School and IIM Calcutta.He has more than around 18 years of experience across Media, Food Retail, Tech, Entertainment, Tech, and Startups, driving business growth through strategic vision, people-centric leadership and innovation.As the Chief Marketing Officer at Domino's Pizza Indonesia, he oversees Digital Business, Marketing, Data Insights, Customer Service, New Product Development (NPD), IT and Creatives.
https://theprpost.com/post/8530/

Albert Shu departs Weber Shandwick after two decades

Albert Shu, a long-standing figure at Weber Shandwick, is stepping down from his role as President of the firm's Hong Kong and Singapore operations. His departure marks the end of a two-decade tenure with the Interpublic Group firm in Asia.Shu joined Weber Shandwick in 2004 and has been instrumental in driving the firm's growth in both Hong Kong and Singapore. He led the Hong Kong office for 16 years and was instrumental in securing numerous awards and accolades.A Weber Shandwick spokesperson praised Shu's contributions: "Albert has served over 20 years with the Weber Shandwick Asia-Pacific team. He has led his teams with dedication, strategic vision, and a commitment to excellence. We thank Albert for his contributions and wish him all the best.""Albert will work closely with the leadership teams in both Hong Kong and Singapore over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition," added the spokesperson. Shu will remain with the firm until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition. In the interim, Robert Magyar, a senior advisor based in Beijing, will oversee the Hong Kong operations, while Carolyn Devanayagam, the regional corporate affairs head, will take charge of Singapore.Weber Shandwick's operations in both Hong Kong and Singapore are significant, with the firm being the largest international PR firm in Hong Kong. The departure of Shu, who previously worked at Deloitte and Burson, marks the end of a rare instance of a single executive overseeing both markets.(Image: webershandwick)
https://theprpost.com/post/8524/

SOCIALEYEZ showcases its strategic communications process at WETEX

Creative agency SOCIALEYEZ has announced its participation as a Gold Sponsor at WETEX 2024, a prestigious platform for sustainability and innovation. Guided by the philosophy, ‘Create, no matter what,’ the agency strives to embed creativity in every aspect of its work and culture. From 1st to 3rd October, the event will bring together thought leaders, innovators and businesses driving the future of environmental responsibility. SOCIALEYEZ is honoured to contribute to this vital conversation, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable and innovative future.SOCIALEYEZ will leverage WETEX 2024 to highlight its leadership and expertise in strategic communications. On 2nd October, Group Head of Strategy, Heena Mak, will take the stage to deliver a compelling presentation titled “Leading with ESG – Strategic Communications for Government & Energy Sectors." This presentation will focus on how Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles are reshaping communications strategies, particularly within the government and energy sectors.Beyond the presentation, SOCIALEYEZ will also host the podcast at the event. Featuring interviews with its leadership team and special guests, including valued clients, the podcast will dive into insightful discussions surrounding sustainability and digital innovation. This initiative underscores SOCIALEYEZ's dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue around ESG and sustainability topics.WETEX 2024 offers SOCIALEYEZ a unique opportunity to reinforce its commitment to sustainability. Through various on-site engagements, including the podcast and leadership presentations, SOCIALEYEZ will demonstrate its pivotal role in supporting ESG digital initiatives. The company’s involvement not only strengthens trust and brand awareness but also showcases its dedication to driving impactful changes in sustainability through innovative communication strategies.Tarek Esper, Managing Director at SOCIALEYEZ, said: “At SOCIALEYEZ, we are honoured to be a gold sponsor at WETEX 2024, where we look forward to exploring meaningful opportunities in sustainability and ESG. This event allows us to connect with forward-thinking organisations and share ideas that will inspire us as we take steps toward a greener future and positive impact in the region."
https://theprpost.com/post/8517/

Shweta Rajpal Kohli resigns from Peak XV Partners

Shweta Rajpal Kohli, Chief Public Policy and Communications Officer at Peak XV Partners, has officially announced her resignation after four years with the firm. She shared the news in a LinkedIn post, marking the end of a significant chapter in her career.Before joining Peak XV Partners, Shweta held the role of Chief Public Policy Officer at Sequoia Capital India & Southeast Asia for nearly three years. Her extensive experience in the public policy domain also includes serving as Country Director for Government Affairs & Public Policy, India & South Asia, at Salesforce. Prior to that, she was Head of Public Policy, India & South Asia, at Uber.Before transitioning into corporate communications and public policy, Shweta had a distinguished career in journalism. She worked with NDTV as Economic Affairs Editor for over 11 years. She also held roles as Corporate Group Manager at Bennett Coleman and Co. Ltd. (Times Group), Special Correspondent at Business Standard, and Special Correspondent at Hindustan Times and The Indian Express.
https://theprpost.com/post/8491/

80 dB Communications raises the Decibel for 6 Ballygunge Place's New Delhi debut

Bengali fine-dining restaurant, 6 Ballygunge Place has made its high-decibel debut in the capital, appointing 80dB Communications as its integrated communications partner.The iconic Kolkata restaurant, under the banner of Savourites Hospitality Pvt Ltd, has chosen 80dB Communications to lead its brand narrative, media relations, and social media strategies as it ventures into New Delhi’s competitive dining market.Since its inception in 2003, 6 Ballygunge Place has become a cornerstone of authentic Bengali cuisine in Kolkata, celebrated for its commitment to traditional recipes, refined ambiance, and impeccable service. The expansion to Delhi is more than a geographical growth; it is a strategic move to invite Delhi’s discerning diners to experience a legacy of culinary excellence. 80dB Communications, known for its expertise in crafting compelling public relations campaigns, will highlight the rich heritage and culinary mastery of 6 Ballygunge Place. The agency is tasked with boosting the restaurant's visibility online, engaging food enthusiasts through targeted social media marketing, influencer partnerships, and captivating content that appeals to a broad audience.Mr. Swaminathan Ramani, Partner at Savourites Hospitality Pvt Ltd, said, “Teaming up with 80dB Communications opens a promising new chapter for 6 Ballygunge Place as we introduce our beloved flavors to New Delhi. Their industry experience and digital acumen are invaluable assets that will help us resonate with the city’s epicureans and integrate seamlessly into its vibrant dining tapestry.” Kiran Ray Chaudhury, Co-founder and Jt. Managing Director of 80dB Communications, shared her excitement about the collaboration, “It is a privilege to represent such a distinguished brand as it makes its mark in Delhi. 6 Ballygunge Place is renowned for its genuine Bengali fare and deep-rooted heritage, and we are thrilled to elevate its narrative in the capital. Our goal is to establish 6 Ballygunge Place as a must-visit destination for food lovers, where every meal becomes a cherished culinary experience.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8478/

Gozoop Group elevates Jyoti Bhatia to Group Director

GOZOOP Group, an independent creative marketing and communications agency, has announced the promotion of Jyoti Bhatia to Group Director. In her new role, Jyoti will take on expanded responsibilities, overseeing key strategic initiatives and driving the agency’s continued innovation in marketing and advertising.An experienced Account Director with a proven track record in the marketing and advertising industry, Jyoti has expertise in advertising, integrated marketing, marketing strategy, digital marketing and social media, With a strong focus on strengthening client relationships, Jyoti will be leading a team of members at Gozoop Group to drive growth and innovation.Jyoti Chugh Bhatia, Group Director - Brand Communications, GOZOOP Group, stated: “I’m thrilled to take on this new role at Gozoop, where the #BreakTheBox mindset constantly pushes us to challenge norms and think beyond traditional solutions. The company’s innovative culture has been a key driver in my growth, allowing me to explore new ideas and deliver meaningful impact for our clients. I look forward to further contributing to Gozoop’s journey of setting new benchmarks in the industry.”Rohan Bhansali, Chairman and Co-founder, of GOZOOP Group, commented: "At Gozoop Group, we take immense pride in our work culture that nurtures growth, innovation, and excellence. It not only retains top talent but also empowers them to take on new challenges, unlocking their full potential. Jyoti is not only a great leader but a great ladder. She is an organization builder and her new role and position reflects our faith in not only her talent but also her value system”. With Jyoti’s expertise and extensive experience, her contribution as a Group Director will assist Gozoop Group to grow and build strategies, delivering groundbreaking solutions for sustainable growth.
https://theprpost.com/post/8475/

XLRI's INDEA taps Mavcomm for integrated communication boost

Mavcomm Consulting, a leading firm in integrated communications and digital solutions, has been entrusted with the integrated communications mandate by the XLRI Centre for Automobile Design & Management (XADM) for its groundbreaking initiative, INDEA (Indian School for Design of Automobiles).As India’s first dedicated school for automobile design, INDEA aims to bridge the gap between advanced design skills and strategic management, preparing world-class professionals for the rapidly evolving automotive industry.Founded in 2006, Mavcomm Consulting has distinguished itself as a dynamic force in the communications sector, consistently challenging conventional norms. This partnership seeks to amplify INDEA’s brand presence and establish its unique role in the automotive landscape of India. Mavcomm will spearhead strategic communications across multiple channels, enhance media engagement, bolster digital presence, and foster thought leadership within the automotive design education community.Prof. Fr. (Dr.) K Casimir, Director of XLRI Delhi NCR, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are delighted to formalize our partnership with Mavcomm Consulting for the integrated PR and communications management of INDEA. Mavcomm has been a trusted partner in handling key aspects of the institute’s mandate, making this partnership a natural progression. Their deep understanding of our vision for INDEA, combined with their expertise in the automotive sector, will help us strengthen our positioning as a leader in automotive design education.”Avik Chattopadhyay, Chairperson of XADM and Founder of INDEA, added: “Our goal at INDEA is to cultivate world-class professionals in automotive design and management equipped with the tools, insights, and experience needed to excel in the industry. We are thrilled to have Mavcomm Consulting on board to help us communicate our vision to a wider audience and position INDEA as a thought and action leader in automotive design education.”Anand Mahesh Talari, Founder & Managing Director of Mavcomm Consulting, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with INDEA, a trailblazer in automotive design education. Our mission is to position INDEA as a leader in its field through impactful PR strategies and precision-targeted digital campaigns.”Noopurr R Chablani, Vice President of Mavcomm Consulting, remarked: “Winning the mandate for INDEA is a significant achievement for us. It underscores our capabilities in strategic communications and our expertise in the digital landscape.”This collaboration is set to elevate INDEA’s profile within the automotive education space, employing a comprehensive communications approach to drive awareness, engagement, and growth.
https://theprpost.com/post/8461/

Journalists face high stress levels and burnout: Muck Rack study

A recent survey of nearly 1,800 journalists highlights the significant stress and burnout impacting professionals in the journalism industry. Conducted by Muck Rack, the study explored topics such as stress, burnout, work hours, and salaries, providing insight into the challenges faced by journalists in balancing demanding work with personal well-being.<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\84f4400c2164ec0d231f6a52a562d370.jpeg' class='content_image'>Key Findings:High Stress Levels: The majority of journalists (67%) rated their stress level above the midpoint on a 10-point scale, with many citing workload, salary, and the pressure of being “always on” as primary stressors.Burnout: More than half of journalists (56%) reported considering quitting their jobs in the past year due to burnout, while 40% have previously left positions for similar reasons.Work-Life Imbalance: A staggering 96% of journalists struggle to fully "switch off" after work, with 64% working more than 40 hours a week and 80% frequently working outside regular business hours.Mental Health and Support:Fewer than 25% of journalists have access to workplace mental health services, and only 42% feel they would receive support from leadership during mental health struggles. A higher percentage (52%) believe their coworkers would offer support.Salary Overview:Journalists earn an average of $67,000 annually, with freelancers averaging $60,000 and non-freelancers making around $70,000. Salaries varied, with non-freelancers generally earning more than freelancers, though over a quarter of freelancers earned less than $40,000 per year.Vacation and Overwork:Vacation days are often interrupted, with 69% of journalists experiencing work disruptions while on leave. The main barriers to taking time off include workload and performance expectations.This comprehensive report sheds light on the ongoing struggles within the journalism profession, emphasizing the urgent need for improved work-life balance, mental health support, and sustainable workloads.
https://theprpost.com/post/8439/

Ketchum UK promotes Rachel Rix to Chief Growth Officer amid leadership reshuffle

Ketchum has promoted Rachel Rix, previously deputy MD of brand, to the role of Chief Growth Officer for its UK operations. Rix will continue her current responsibilities as global client lead and EMEA lead for two major accounts, alongside her new duties overseeing Ketchum’s integrated offerings. Having joined Ketchum nearly eight years ago from Freuds, Rix has steadily risen through the ranks.This announcement comes shortly after Ketchum UK appointed Estelle Boon as managing director of brand.In her new role, Rix will report to Sera Holland, who became UK CEO in August following the departure of Ruth Allchurch. Holland praised Rix’s abilities, stating: “Watching Rachel work is like taking a masterclass in client relationship building. She is one of those rare talents that can create depth in the partnerships she owns and breadth in the work through her relentless focus on progress. I’m looking forward to working closely with Rachel as she steps into this new role, and we step into this new chapter of growth across our integrated and specialist offerings.”Expressing her enthusiasm, Rix shared: “I couldn’t be more excited to take on this role at the start of Ketchum UK’s next chapter. There are two things I love most about my job and our industry: building and nurturing relationships with people who inspire and energise me and doing innovative, progressive work with clients that makes us all better. I can’t wait to work with Sera and the senior leadership team to bring our brilliant plans to life.”This leadership change is part of a broader restructuring at Ketchum UK, which includes Noor Kheir’s arrival from H&K as managing director of corporate, as well as the departure of the agency’s chief finance and operations officers, and corporate director Koray Camgöz’s transition to CEO of the Taylor Bennett Foundation.
https://theprpost.com/post/8379/

One Source secures corporate communications mandate from Grant Thornton Bharat

Integrated marketing consultancy, One Source, today announced that it has  won the public relations and corporate communications mandate for Grant Thornton Bharat, India’s  premium consulting firm. One Source will assist Grant Thornton Bharat in building and managing its  reputation across earned media through a variety of solutions.  Grant Thornton Bharat is a premium professional services firm in India with over 10,000+ professionals  across 19 locations. #GTBharat works with businesses and governments across industries and sectors,  providing assurance, consulting, tax, risk and digital and technology transformation services. A Great  Place To Work certified organisation, and ranked in Top 10 Best Workplaces in Professional Services,  the firm is constantly working towards building a stronger and more #VibrantBharat. Soumya Palchoudhuri, Partner- Markets Ecosystems, Grant Thornton Bharat, said, “We are very  pleased to collaborate with One Source as our new public relations firm. Their expertise in designing  innovative and impactful communication aligns perfectly with our vision for the #GTBharat brand. We  expect this collaboration to enhance our brand messaging and reach all our stakeholders effectively,  as we continue to focus on helping our clients achieve their aspirations both in India and globally."  Speaking about the partnership, Sandeep Rao, Co–Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer, One  Source, stated "This collaboration is a testament to the significant business impact we have achieved  for our partners worldwide. Our primary focus is on driving our partners' business growth, which in  turn fuels growth for us and our people. We are thrilled to continue our impactful work with Grant  Thornton Bharat and deeply honoured by their trust in our approach.”  One Source has offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru which service Indian and global market  leaders across start-ups, BFSI, fintech, edtech, construction, e-commerce, fast fashion, manufacturing,  packaging, business consulting, ICT, foodtech and more. Over the last seven years, the consultancy  has seen consistent 100+% growth across partners and people, beating average industry appraisals  along the way, at 27% YoY. 
https://theprpost.com/post/8374/

Sandpiper: 72% of organisations negatively impacted by reputational weaknesses

A new report launched today by global reputation and policy management firm, Sandpiper, reveals ESG and sustainability to be the weakest area of reputation management for organisations globally, with only 9% making the leading category in this area.The Sandpiper Global Reputation Capital Index, which is based on data from a survey of over 2,700 C-Suite Leaders across 27 markets, identifies four categories for performance in reputation management through analysis of nine areas of reputation management. Based on this, just 12% globally qualify as Trailblazers, with the remaining categorised as Aspirants (54%), Followers (32%), and Beginners (3%).Reputation Strategy and Crisis & Issues Management are the Indexed areas with the highest portion of Trailblazers, while ESG & Sustainability Strategy, Executive Profiling & Thought Leadership, and Media Engagement have the lowest.Click to DownloadESG and Sustainability Presents Significant Weak SpotsWhile progress in ESG and sustainability is rated as an important reputational area by 83% of respondents, only 39% self-rate their organisations as strong in this. Based on the Index, only 9% qualify as Trailblazers, the lowest of any area, with Followers at 36% and Beginners at 34% – the highest percentage of Beginners in any area.This result is underpinned by multiple weaknesses. Less than half of respondent organisations have a sustainability and/or ESG strategy or targets, and only 44% are regularly producing any form of sustainability and/or ESG reporting at least annually. Resources is identified as a key barrier, with only 13% have a dedicated sustainability and/or ESG team.The quality of organisational ESG and sustainability communications is also raising concerns, with 43% saying they don’t believe these are even accurate. Further to this, climate communications fares poorly, with only 29% having established a climate communications strategy. Less than half (45%) also say their organisations’ sustainability strategies are strongly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Emma Smith, Sandpiper, CEO, said, “Amid increasing sustainability issues globally and as we approach the mid-point of the decade of action, the findings are clear that more needs to be done to advance sustainability goals. As stakeholder activism grows and greenwashing regulations increase, organisations that are unprepared risk being caught off guard and experiencing major reputational damages.”Reputational Weaknesses Exposed as Risks RiseIn further findings, nearly three quarters (72%) of respondents’ organisations were negatively impacted by reputational weaknesses over the past 12 months. These included affecting the ability to do business with customers (61%), to attract and retain talent (54%), to recover from a crisis (54%), incurring financial losses (53%), as well as negatively impacting government and community relationships (51%).These effects are being felt amid a growing risk landscape, with 56% saying reputation is becoming more difficult to manage, with just 21% saying it is becoming easier.Nine out of 10 leaders are very concerned about a range of emerging reputational risks, including misinformation and disinformation (97%), data privacy and cybersecurity (96%), employee, customer and stakeholder activism (95%), DE&I prioritisation (95%), ESG and sustainability scrutiny (95%), geopolitical tensions (95%), impact of AI on communications (95%), and greenwashing claims (94%), and media consolidation (94%).Despite the strong concerns, less than four out of 10 leaders feel well prepared to manage any of these issues. The rise of misinformation and disinformation (67 pt gap), employee activism (67 pt gap), geopolitical tensions (66 pt gap), and greenwashing top the list, indicating a need for immediate attention in these areas. Trailblazers outperform in every category of reputation management, including being 25 points below the global average in negative impacts owing to reputational weaknesses.Emma Smith, Sandpiper, CEO, said, “As the risk landscape increases and communications channels are increasingly fragmented and complex, the rules of reputation management have changed. Business leaders need to employ a holistic and multi-dimensional approach to reputation management that hyper-targets stakeholders, all while navigating emerging digital risks that have the potential to destroy reputations in seconds. In this environment, visibility, accountability, and transparency are the crucial ingredients for success.”Strategy to Action GapOverall, the Index reveals a significant gap between strategy and action. While 97% of leaders believe having a good reputation is important for their organisation’s commercial success, and over 80% see all nine areas of reputation management as important, less than half rate their organisation’s performance as strong in any of these areas.At the same time, leaders feel somewhat disempowered in reputational matters, with only 67% of CEOs and 50% of Corporate Affairs Leaders feeling a high level of responsibility for their organisation’s reputation. Over half also lack strong access to critical audience and stakeholder insights, which directly impacts their ability to engage and influence.These issues appear to be recognised, with over 70% planning to increase investment in each area of reputation management over the next year.Emma Smith, Sandpiper, CEO, said: “While our Index shows some very good signs of progress in reputation management globally, there area still many areas for improvement. A significant strategy to action gap is a consistent theme throughout the data, which shows that organisations have all the right intentions but are failing to mobilise plans. The appetite to increase investment in resources for reputation management efforts in the coming year is a positive sign.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8313/

Social change agency Think HQ acquires LOUD Communications

Think HQ, a leading social change agency, has expanded its Sydney presence through the strategic acquisition of LOUD Communications, a renowned cultural communications agency. This move follows Think HQ's successful integration of CultureVerse in 2019, further solidifying its position in the market.Lorraine Jokovic, CEO of LOUD, will join Think HQ as Sydney General Manager, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to the team. Jen Sharpe, Founder and Managing Director of Think HQ, emphasized the strategic value of the acquisition, highlighting the alignment of LOUD's expertise with Think HQ's commitment to driving social impact and commercial growth.The combined entity boasts a diverse team of 100 professionals, enhancing its ability to craft and deliver campaigns that resonate with diverse communities across Australia. This acquisition strengthens Think HQ's unique position in the market, driving expansion with new commercial Jen Sharpe, founder and MD, Think HQ, said: “This acquisition is testament to Think HQ’s strategic growth, further boosting our Sydney presence and enhancing our creative and commercial offering. LOUD’s strong client base and commercial creative smarts are a perfect fit for the Think HQ team, and together will drive our growth with new commercial clients. Think HQ’s unique integrated offering to reach all Australians will be supercharged with our new team members. By bringing LOUD into the Think HQ family, we’ve really cemented our unique position as a truly integrated, one-stop-shop agency that engages with all communities in Australia - and creates awesome campaigns with them. With a team of 100 super-smart people that reflect the audiences we speak to and the communities we work with, Think HQ is better equipped than ever to create and deliver campaigns that no other agency can.”Lorraine Jokovic, the CEO of LOUD, will become Think HQ’s Sydney general manager. She said: “LOUD has always been about making brands heard and helping them find their place in competitive markets. As part of Think HQ, with its integrated approach and commitment to positive social impact, we have the capability to do even bigger and better things together.”(Image: Think HQ Sydney team)
https://theprpost.com/post/8272/

Corporate image influences prescribing decisions: WE survey

A recent global study by WE Communications, encompassing 540 physicians (57% specialists, 43% general practitioners) across six countries, reveals that corporate reputation plays a pivotal role in prescribing behaviour. This research builds on previous findings and underscores the importance of a company's overall reputation and expertise in specific disease areas.The survey was conducted in partnership with Sapio Research across Australia, China, Germany, India, the UK, and the US. Reputation's Influence on Prescribing DecisionsAccording to the survey, 81% of physicians consider corporate reputation to have at least a moderate impact on their perception of a medicine's value, particularly when comparing treatments with similar safety, efficacy, and pricing.Three Levels of ReputationBiopharma companies must cultivate their reputation at three distinct levels:  Corporate Reputation: This encompasses the overall image of the company, including its reliability and credibility.  Disease-Specific Reputation: Expertise and commitment in particular therapeutic areas.  Product Reputation: The standing of individual medicines within the market.Companies that invest in enhancing their reputation at these levels can craft compelling narratives about their dedication to specific therapeutic areas, which can significantly influence prescribing choices."Reputation is at times mistakenly viewed as a soft asset in the healthcare industry, yet our survey has shown that it has clear bottom-line consequences. It can make the difference between a physician writing a script for your treatment or not,” said Stephanie Marchesi, President, WE Global HealthDrivers of Corporate ReputationPhysicians identified several key factors that drive corporate reputation:Reliability and Credibility: 62% of physicians associate this with confidence in product quality and efficacy. Emphasizing evidence-based outcomes and transparency in clinical trials is essential.Trust: Demonstrating a long-term commitment to patient well-being fosters trust. Companies should highlight their ethical practices and patient support programs.Transparency and Communication: Transparency in clinical research and clear stakeholder communication are crucial. Younger physicians, in particular, value openness about research challenges and successes.Innovation: A significant majority (72%) believe that addressing unmet medical needs through patient-centric solutions defines innovation. Highlighting advancements in research and development is vital.Top Actions for Improving Corporate ReputationLead with Innovation: Showcase scientific advancements and patient journeys from drug discovery through to delivery, focusing on areas with high unmet needs.Treat Physicians as Partners: Be transparent about pricing and access programs, and emphasize patient benefits in communications.Capitalize on Digital Trends: Incorporate social media into your marketing and communication strategies, as it is a growing source of professional information for physicians.The Role of Digital ChannelsWith 59% of physicians using social media for professional purposes and significant usage in markets like China (57%), integrating digital trends into your communications strategy is essential.
https://theprpost.com/post/8260/

Avra Goldstone Lorrimer departs H&K after 11 years for new global opportunity

Avra Goldstone Lorrimer, a longtime senior leader at H&K, is set to leave the firm for a "new country, new company, new role."Reflecting on her journey, Lorrimer shared on LinkedIn: "H&K has taken me from Dubai to Davos to Detroit and so many extraordinary places in between, and I have been privileged to work with insightful, intelligent, and inventive colleagues and clients along the way." She continued, "Throughout my H&K era, my understanding of communications and leadership has continued to evolve and grow, and I leave this chapter with belief in the power of public relations to solve business and societal issues in meaningful ways."While she did not provide specifics on her next steps, she teased, "more to come."Lorrimer spent 11 years with H&K, holding a variety of roles, including her most recent position as executive VP and chief growth officer. Since relocating from London to New York in 2020, she has served as a WPP global client lead and head of H&K’s New York office. Before that, she led the consumer packaged goods practice at the London office for seven years and was also the WPP PR lead on the Ford of Europe account.
https://theprpost.com/post/8248/

Chobani elevates Zoe Brindley to Corp Comm & Affairs Manager

Chobani Australia has promoted Zoe Brindley to the position of Corporate Communications & Affairs Manager. Brindley, who joined the company in March 2022 as Corporate Communications Manager, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributions to Chobani's communications strategy.Before joining Chobani, Brindley spent two years at Munro Footwear Group, where she served as Senior Communications & Engagement Specialist. Her experience in the corporate communications field has equipped her with the necessary skills to excel in her new role.In her new capacity, Brindley will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of corporate communications and affairs for Chobani Australia. This includes managing media relations, internal communications, and public affairs initiatives. Her expertise will be instrumental in enhancing Chobani's reputation and strengthening its connection with stakeholders.
https://theprpost.com/post/8229/

The Travel Yogi taps Darby Communications to enhance brand awareness

Darby Communications, a leading public relations and marketing agency, has partnered with The Travel Yogi, an adventure travel company that combines yoga and wellness with immersive experiences. Darby will serve as The Travel Yogi's agency of record, tasked with enhancing brand awareness and showcasing the company's unique offerings.Founded in 2010, The Travel Yogi has captivated travelers worldwide with its curated yoga retreats and adventures in 17 destinations. Darby Communications will leverage its expertise in media relations, digital marketing, and content creation to amplify The Travel Yogi's brand. The agency will focus on:  Targeted Media Relations: Securing high-profile media placements to reach key audiences, including travel journalists, influencers, and adventure enthusiasts.  Organic and Paid Pinterest Management: Creating visually appealing content on Pinterest to showcase The Travel Yogi's stunning destinations, inspiring travel ideas, and yoga practices.  Highlighting Adventure and Small Group Travel: Emphasizing the company's expertise in crafting immersive adventures for small groups, providing personalized experiences and fostering a sense of community.“Darby’s expertise and connections in the adventure travel and outdoor lifestyle space make them an ideal partner to help us expand our reach and reinforce our position as a leader in the travel industry,” said The Travel Yogi founder-CEO Jennifer Hoddevik.By leveraging its expertise and industry connections, Darby Communications will help position The Travel Yogi as a leading destination for adventure-seeking travelers seeking to combine physical and mental wellness with unforgettable experiences.
https://theprpost.com/post/8224/

SOCIETY expands client roster with two new wins

SOCIETY, a leading independent creative communications agency, has expanded its client roster with two significant new wins.The agency has been appointed by Optometry Australia, a not-for-profit organisation, to raise awareness of the global rise of myopia and promote community eye health in Australia. SOCIETY will deliver integrated creative and marketing communications services to achieve these goals.In addition, Rydges Hotels & Resorts, part of the EVT Group, has re-engaged SOCIETY to lead communications for the reopening of Rydges North Sydney and Rydges Port Macquarie. This follows previous successful collaborations between the agency and EVT, including work on Rydges Melbourne, The Capitol Hotel, and the Australian launch of Lylo in Brisbane.  elbourne and The Capitol Hotel, and the Australian launch of Lylo, in Brisbane.Dena Vasallo, CEO and founder, SOCIETY, said: "Optometry Australia’s mission aligns to our value of making a positive impact on society, and we’re proud to spotlight the amazing work provided by the health professionals that form part of the Optometry Australia network. Rydges is an iconic Australian brand that provides authentic and memorable properties and an elevated service for visitors as they live, travel, and explore Australia. We’re thrilled to be extending our partnership with Rydges North Sydney and Rydges Port Macquarie, to further enhance their ANZ media presence."
https://theprpost.com/post/8163/

VeriSmart AI onboards The Media Manifest as its Strategic Communications Partner

VeriSmart AI, a Blockchain AdTech platform enabling data interoperability for companies while maintaining privacy compliance, proudly announces its strategic partnership with The Media Manifest, a leading PR agency renowned for its innovative communication strategies. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for VeriSmart AI in fortifying its communication strategies and amplifying its presence in the Blockchain AdTech industry. The Media Manifest will oversee VeriSmart AI’s PR presence. Through this partnership, the agency aims to focus on effectively communicating the company’s pioneering advancements and contributions to the future of Blockchain and Data Privacy front. Founded in 2017, Verismart AI is introducing an approach to advertising technology that addresses the shortcomings of traditional methods. By leveraging a decentralized data intelligence framework, Verismart aims to deliver more targeted and effective ads while giving importance to user privacy and control. They utilize blockchain technology to ensure the security and privacy of encrypted data within its decentralized data intelligence framework. Additionally, they leverage cumulative data intelligence of enterprises and brands for more than 528 Million users. The company’s last two products have been inaugurated by PM Modi, namely, Digital Banking Unit, Dyslexia Voice Bot.Nupur Maheshwari, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, shared her enthusiasm: “Partnering with VeriSmart AI is a thrilling opportunity for us to shape the narrative in the Blockchain AdTech sector. We are eager to apply our communication expertise to amplify their impact and lead the conversation on the future of the Data Privacy and Blockchain industry.”The Media Manifest is a boutique Public Relations and Digital Media agency, founded by Kinjal Shah and Nupur Maheshwari in 2021. Having a focused approach in the new age space, TMM offers tailored public relations and digital solutions in the rapidly shifting ecosystem by driving the brand narrative to achieve maximum impact. Their expertise lies in strategic analysis, collaborations, and creative outlook from the brand’s perspective. Headquartered in Mumbai, the agency provides solutions like Reputation Management, Crisis Communication, Strategic Consultation, and Influencer Marketing. The practices are centeredaround BFSI, Wealth Management, Personal Finance, Technology, Startup, Blockchain and Hospitality amongst other spaces.
https://theprpost.com/post/8145/

Zack Kass to chair new AI advisory council at Ruder Finn

One of the world’s largest independent global communications and integrated marketing agencies, Ruder Finn, has announced that Zack Kass, former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI and a leading force in bringing artificial intelligence to business applications, will chair its new global AI Advisory Council.This partnership, exclusive in the PR industry, underscores Ruder Finn’s commitment to leading the global AI revolution in communications. The AI Advisory Council will report to CEO Kathy Bloomgarden and will operate under the day-to-day leadership of CTO & Head of AI, Tejas Totade, and Managing Director of Ruder Finn Interactive Asia, David Ko. This newly established council, under Kass’s guidance, will focus on developing and implementing AI strategies to benefit Ruder Finn’s global client base.“At Ruder Finn, we believe that a company’s approach to AI – how quickly they learn, integrate, and embrace its potential – will be a key factor in their future successack’s global perspective and deep understanding o. Zf AI will be invaluable as we empower our teams and clients around the world to leverage these transformative technologies" said Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn.Zack Kass is one of the brightest and most experienced minds bridging practical applications for AI in the world today. He brings 14 years of experience in the AI field, having devoted pivotal years at OpenAI and having since advised leaders across Fortune 500 companies to The White House on AI strategies. Ruder Finn’s partnership with Zack is exclusive in the Public Relations industry."The future of communications is inextricably linked with AI, leading to abundant possibilities,” said Kass. “We're on the cusp of unlocking unprecedented creativity, efficiency, and impact in how we connect and communicate. This partnership with Ruder Finn is about empowering businesses to navigate this exciting frontier and leverage AI for meaningful and lasting success."The Ruder Finn AI Advisory Council will provide global AI strategies and hands-on guidance, ensuring clients of all sizes are equipped to harness the full potential of AI. Ruder Finn is in the process of finalizing the council’s membership and will announce additional members representing diverse regions and expertise shortly."Our firm is setting a new standard in the industry by integrating advanced AI capabilities directly into our client offerings,” elaborated Elan Shou, Ruder Finn Asia-Pacific Managing Director. “By transforming traditional PR with AI-driven insights and efficiencies, we're not just enhancing campaign outcomes—we're positioning ourselves as leaders in AI-powered communications.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8098/

Moroccan National Tourist Office taps Finn Partners for China market

Finn Partners has been selected by the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT) as its integrated marketing communications partner in China, as Morocco seeks to increase tourism from the region. The agency will provide comprehensive support, including PR strategy, influencer marketing, social media content creation, event planning, and brand partnerships.With Morocco recently named Africa's top destination in 2023, the country is now setting its sights on becoming one of the world's top 10 most popular tourist destinations by 2026.“Morocco has maintained a long-standing and amicable relationship with China. Traveling to Morocco offers Chinese tourists a truly adventurous journey that includes authentic cultural immersion, natural wonders, diverse outdoor activities, world-class luxury, and a host of wellness and mindfulness experiences," said Hicham Bellaziz, chief representative, ONMT in China.  “We are excited about the appointment and are confident in our ability to establish a strong foundation to elevate ONMT’s marketing efforts to new levels. Through our collaboration, we aim to deliver compelling narratives that capture Morocco's unique charm, and form partnerships to showcase its natural beauty, culture, art and lifestyle,” said Jenny Lo, managing partner, Finn Partners China. Finn Partners will focus on positioning Morocco as an unforgettable destination, showcasing its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and diverse outdoor activities, while highlighting its world-class luxury and wellness experiences. By increasing visibility in the Chinese market, the agency aims to inspire travelers to consider Morocco for their next adventure.(Photo by Anton Mishin on Unsplash)
https://theprpost.com/post/8083/

Independents expands in ME with Bureau Béatrice acquisition

The Independents, a leading communications firm specializing in luxury, style, and lifestyle, has announced the acquisition of Bureau Béatrice, a Dubai-based multimedia and creative technology startup. This strategic move marks a significant expansion of The Independents' presence in the Middle East and reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative and immersive experiences for luxury brands.Founded in 2021 by Kevin Alderweireldt and Jon S. Maloy, Bureau Béatrice has quickly established itself as a trailblazer in the industry. The agency's expertise in creating engaging content and leveraging cutting-edge technology has attracted a prestigious client roster, including Tiffany & Co, Bulgari, Prada, and many more.Isabelle Chouvet, CEO of The Independents, expressed her enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: "The Middle East is a thriving market for luxury brands, and Bureau Béatrice's innovative approach perfectly complements our existing offerings. Their ability to transform stories into unforgettable experiences through technology will enhance our capabilities in the region and provide valuable insights for our global operations."Kevin Alderweireldt, co-founder of Bureau Béatrice, shared his excitement about joining The Independents, emphasizing the potential for growth and collaboration. "This partnership will allow us to amplify our vision of creating cross-cultural projects that set new standards worldwide. Together with The Independents, we will redefine excellence and drive a new wave of creativity and engagement."With this acquisition, The Independents has expanded its global footprint to 12 countries, solidifying its position as a leading player in the lifestyle, fashion, and cosmetics industries. The company is poised to leverage Bureau Béatrice's expertise to create groundbreaking luxury projects and deliver exceptional results for its clients.
https://theprpost.com/post/8059/

Prime Weber Shandwick gains full autonomy, remains part of global network

Creative and communications agency Prime Weber Shandwick has transitioned to full ownership by five members of its current leadership team. The the Stockholm-based firm will continue to operate as an affiliate of Weber Shandwick in Sweden, maintaining its original name.Founded in 1998, Prime Weber Shandwick became a part of Weber Shandwick's network a decade ago, a move designed to strengthen the agency's presence in the Nordic region, which had previously relied on affiliate partnerships.Johan Dyrendahl, CEO of Prime Weber Shandwick, said: "We view this as a natural progression and a way to future-proof our business. It offers us, our clients, and our colleagues the best of both worlds: the energy and focus of local ownership to tailor our offerings and operations to the current and future needs of the Swedish market, and the strength of being part of a fantastic global network.""We acquired and successfully integrated Prime to serve as a creative engine within Weber Shandwick, inspiring and igniting our global network with its broad creative capabilities. Over the past decade, we’ve built a strong foundation, in partnership with Prime, that has significantly transformed the landscape of creativity and innovation, and we’re proud of all we’ve achieved together," said Gail Heimann, global CEO of The Weber Shandwick Collective. Since its integration into Weber Shandwick in 2014, Prime Weber Shandwick has earned 14 Cannes Lions for its creative excellence.(Image credit: https://primewebershandwick.com)
https://theprpost.com/post/8045/

Think HQ achieves B Corp certification

Think HQ, a communications agency that creates positive outcomes for people, places and planet, has announced its certification as a B Corporation, joining a global community of businesses committed to high standards of social and environmental performance. With nearly 100 employees, Think HQ earned this prestigious certification under the B Corp's advertising and research classification for agencies with 50 or more employees.Think HQ Founder and Managing Director Jen Sharpe, said:?"As an agency, one of our values is being authentically authentic. B Corp certification further validates who we are and what we have always stood for - positive social change.”Think HQ Chief Strategy Officer Fiona Nixon said: "The process of becoming a B Corp is extensive and rigorous, and it’s a true testament to who we are. B Corps around the world set the gold standard for positive impact, and we’re thrilled to now be a part of that community -?one aligned in values, and dedicated to the social and environmental betterment of our world." The B Corp certification process is known for its thorough and demanding nature, assessing companies on various criteria related to their impact on workers, customers, community, and the environment. This certification underscores Think HQ’s commitment to integrating social and environmental considerations into its business operations, reinforcing its role as a leader in fostering positive change through its work. As a newly certified B Corp, Think HQ joins a network of like-minded organizations dedicated to driving meaningful impact and setting a high bar for corporate responsibility.
https://theprpost.com/post/8032/

Sapience Communications opens Dubai office

Sapience Communications, a London-based corporate communications and digital marketing agency, has opened a new office in Dubai Media City. This move supports the agency's expansion in the Gulf, the broader Middle East, and India.Dubai Media City, a hub for digital and creative industries, is home to several global and local media brands, making it an ideal location for Sapience's growth strategy in the region. The new office will be led by Irina Bond, who brings experience from Barclays Capital, the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and a successful healthcare consultancy business.Iain Allison, a board advisor based in Dubai, is a former broadcast media marketing executive with experience running Indian operations for an international investment bank and co-founding a successful payments business that became Xoom, acquired by PayPal.Leading Sapience's Indian clients, including DLF, is Shubhi Grover, an award-winning PR and brand management professional with a master's in public communications from the London School of Economics. She is supported by Sanjana Chawla, the digital marketing lead specializing in influencer marketing, lead generation, and digital strategies.Co-founder and CEO Richard Morgan Evans, who has strong ties to the Middle East, regularly visits the region to support the company's presence. Sapience’s notable clients in the region include Zayed Sustainability Prize, Qatar Insurance Group, and SISCO Holding.Richard Morgan Evans commented: "We are pleased to announce the opening of our Dubai office, a strategic commitment to our clients in the Gulf and Middle East markets. Our Dubai office will also enhance our ability to support clients from India in achieving their growth goals. I am also happy to be able to capitalise on my long association with the Middle East and the network of strong relationships I have established. India too is increasingly a country where we are building up a presence and our Dubai office allows us to better help our clients from India achieve their growth goals.”Irina Bond, senior consultant Middle East and India at Sapience Communications, commented: “I am excited to help Sapience pursue its growth ambitions and use my business and marketing experience to assists its clients in the region with their own expansion plans. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the meetings I have had with a variety of businesses from a broad range of sectors in recent months and I look forward to further strengthening our bonds with them and forging new partnerships and relationships among companies in the UAE, India and beyond.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8018/

WBD elevates Natalie Dubois to Senior Publicity Manager for ANZ

Warner Bros. Discovery has announced the promotion of Natalie Dubois to the position of Senior Publicity Manager for Australia and New Zealand. Dubois, who joined the company in August 2021 as the Publicity Lead for Australia, will now oversee broader regional responsibilities in her elevated role.Dubois brings over 18 years of extensive experience in television, entertainment, production, marketing, and publicity to her new position. Her tenure at Warner Bros. Discovery has been marked by successful campaigns and strategic media engagement, contributing significantly to the company’s presence in the Australian market.Before joining Warner Bros. Discovery, Dubois held key roles at prominent media companies, where she honed her expertise in driving publicity efforts for high-profile television shows and entertainment events. Her strategic approach and deep industry knowledge have earned her recognition as a leader in the field.In her new role, Dubois will lead the publicity efforts for Warner Bros. Discovery’s diverse portfolio of content across Australia and New Zealand, focusing on maximizing visibility and engagement for the company’s programming and initiatives. She will also work closely with local and international teams to drive cohesive and impactful publicity strategies.This promotion comes at a pivotal time for Warner Bros. Discovery as the company continues to expand its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. With the recent merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc., the company has been focusing on strengthening its global presence, with Australia and New Zealand being key markets.Warner Bros. Discovery has been actively enhancing its regional operations, with recent moves including the launch of new content offerings and partnerships aimed at capturing a larger share of the Australian and New Zealand markets. Dubois’ appointment is seen as a strategic step in aligning the company’s publicity strategies with its broader business objectives in these key territories.As Warner Bros. Discovery continues to roll out its streaming platform, Max, across various international markets, including Australia, Dubois will be instrumental in driving the platform’s promotional efforts, ensuring that it resonates with local audiences while maintaining the global brand’s integrity.Dubois’ promotion is effective immediately, and she will continue to be based in Sydney, reporting to the Head of Communications for Warner Bros. Discovery Asia-Pacific.
https://theprpost.com/post/8004/

Explore Louisiana names Gate 7 as ANZ Marketing Agency

Explore Louisiana has named Gate 7 as its trade development, public relations, and social media agency for the Australian and New Zealand markets. This partnership marks the second year of collaboration between the two, following a series of successful projects in 2023. Explore Louisiana has solidified its ongoing relationship with Gate 7 by becoming a retained client.Gate 7 will take on the responsibility of promoting all regions of Louisiana through a comprehensive campaign targeting the Australian and New Zealand markets. The campaign will encompass trade development, public relations, and social media efforts.Jo Palmer, Founder and Managing Director of Gate 7, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: "We couldn't be more excited to join forces with Explore Louisiana, a state where history, culture, and Southern hospitality converge in a truly remarkable way. Visitors from both Australia and New Zealand continue to prioritize travel, and as the numbers show, Louisiana is a must-see destination for them. We're also thrilled to broaden our work with the state, diving into trade, PR, and social media as we continue to evolve and deliver creative, integrated marketing programs for our clients."