The Power Of PR (The Role of PR in Business)

PR – what is it? A dark art? A true science? What is the value of it? Am I ready for PR? Do I have a story to tell? Confused? Worry no more. We’ve teamed up with CIPR North East to shine a light on the role of PR and the value it can deliver for your business. During the talk you will hear from four speakers discussing the role of PR, its place in business and a real case study of how PR has helped to develop and grow a business.

Speakers:

Matt Watson

Treasurer of the CIPR North East and Regional Communications Officer for the Labour Party, Matt has extensive experience within the industry. He previously provided policy and communications support for the Leader of Newcastle City Council. He was involved in major issues such as setting the council’s budget, and the adoption of the long term planning framework for the city, as well as significant internal change programmes. During this session, Matt will give an introduction to PR, discuss the questions you need to ask when considering implementing PR as a strategic management function within your business, and the role of the CIPR.

Christian Cerisola

Head of W North, with more than 20 years experience in media and communications Christian leads a team delivering PR support for local growing businesses through to global brands. From North East start-up 40Kola, to growing Lane7 and the nations most loved tea brand PG tips. Christian will discuss the role of a PR agency and their role in supporting organisations grown and build a brand presence.

Shelley Armstrong

Communications Manager at the Innovation SuperNetwork North East England, Shelley has a decade of experience working in both agency and inhouse PR roles where she provides strategic direction as well as campaign delivery. Shelley will discuss the role of an in-house PR practitioner.

Andy Stephenson

After looking for gift ideas for his four nieces and nephews: nothing seemed to embody the mix of healthy living, green and creative content that he felt is so important to child development so Andy quit his job and launched Weekend Box. Established in 2013 Weekend Box Club has grown rapidly. Winning Start-Up of the Year in 2014 they have now delivered over one million Quality Time hours. Andy will talk about his experience of PR and how it has helped to develop and grow his business.