the monthly newsletter for the Australian PR industry MAY 2013 1. Hill + Knowlton Strategies appoints Paul Plowman as CEO for Australia (pic, right) 2. Wordstorm PR wins 50 Shades of Chocolate and Picster accounts (MD Monica Rosenfeld; photo below right) 3. Sweaty Betty launches Ministry of Talent Blogger Agency; signs fashion bloggers Elle Ferguson and Tash Sefton (below, centre) 4. Government sponsors anti‐alcohol campaign (Owen Wright and Sally Fitzgibbons as Surfing Ambassadors; below left)
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Snippets The PRIA has cancelled the Sports Comms Conference, which was due to be held in Queensland. No word on why but industry sources suggest a lack of bookings/delegate registrations may be key reason. Women in PR network with Women in Media; for an insight into one of the PR‐media networking events of the Melbourne social calendar, see this blog by Jennifer Hansen: http://goo.gl/hT8BQ UK: Meltwater in legal stoush re media monitoring fees http://goo.gl/NldjI Scott Rhodie leaves comms role at NBN Real doctor leads health comms agency http://goo.gl/ReN05 London to create tech event like SXSW http://goo.gl/Su4OE News is bad for you; giving up talkback and tabloids will make you feel happier http://goo.gl/1u9Pb UK: MP calls for "Leveson style" enquiry into banking system following years of super profits, super losses, nationalisation, interest rate fixing scandals, outcry over bonus payments etc; http://goo.gl/apL8x Former Activision and Frank PR duo convicted for fraud http://goo.gl/ojWXa “Former Activision senior PR manager Kathryn Kirton and former Frank PR associate director Jamie Kaye have been sentenced after pleading guilty to fraud, which the agency described as an 'isolated incident” reported an article in PR Week UK Eco warriors put case for civil disobedience against coal industry: http://goo.gl/iJRvn Public reputation of financial advisers crashes to level not seen since GFC http://goo.gl/gIRcB ICAC, the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption is investigating a former NSW Labor Minister and the granting of a mining licence that enriched a number of people, and the possibility of corruption. Lots of witnesses have been called, including a media relations adviser, who now works for a lobbying company: ''Having done what I have done for a long time, I don't believe anything that is written in a press release" said Alex Cramb, former Communications Director for former NSW Premier, the Hon. Nathan Rees MP, speaking at ICAC; Alex is now with lobbying firm GRA (Government Relations Australia) Westfield UK hires Weber Shandwick for PR brief http://goo.gl/YeQh9
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Account wins
Fuel Communications wins Optus Consumer and SMB PR accounts Independent PR agency, Fuel Communications has kicked‐off 2013 with strong growth following its appointment as Optus’ consumer and SMB public relations agency and the addition of four new consultants to its team. After a competitive pitch process, Fuel is now working with the Optus Corporate Affairs team to develop a core consumer PR strategy that supports key business initiatives, with a focus on consumer lifestyle, national, metro and regional media. Fuel will also work across Optus’ sponsorship properties and major integrated campaigns. A separate competitive pitch for Optus’ SMB portfolio was won by Fuel and will see Fuel roll out a 12 month program to position Optus SMB as a trusted advisor to small businesses. Fuel is not new to the Optus business, having handled its regional communications program since 2011. In addition to a number of corporate projects, Fuel helped Optus launch its 4G network in September 2012. To support its growth, Fuel has recruited four new consultants this year
The Mint Partners wins HYUNDAI account Strategic lifestyle agency, The Mint Partners, has won the Hyundai Australia’s communications account. The appointment follows a period of growth for the agency, which recently moved to new premises in Surry Hills, and appointed new team members to grow its digital and activation services. The Mint Partners has been appointed to work with the Hyundai public relations team to generate lifestyle media coverage and creative activations that will integrate into existing properties, plus conceptualise and execute major event and stunt activations, whilst driving overall lifestyle media engagement. The agency also welcomed a number of Asian Hotel clients including Bangkok‐based Sukosol Hotel Group and the Park Royal on Pickering in Singapore to join cornerstone hotel clients, QT Hotels & Results, Art Series Hotels, The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa and Tower Lodge. The Mint Partners continue to represent the best Australian hospitality clients with Keystone Group, Rob Marchetti, Australian Vintage, Manfredi Enterprises and newly launched coffee brand Espresso di Manfredi. The agency, owned by Brett Galvin and Genevieve Taubman, began on Taubman’s kitchen table in 2007. Born out of a shared passion for the communications sphere and sharing a strong reputation in the food, hospitality and wine categories, Galvin and Taubman have grown the business organically through word of mouth and reputation. Stellar Concepts wins Michael Hill account
Stellar Concepts wins Michael Hill account Stellar Concepts has been appointed as the PR and communications agency for retail jeweler, Michael Hill International. Founded in 1979 by New Zealand designer, Sir Michael Hill, the brand has 260 stores across the globe. Stellar Concepts will be working with Michael Hill’s marketing team (based in Brisbane) on developing a new brand communications strategy which it will execute in Australia and New Zealand. Michael Hill International joins a portfolio of lifestyle clients at Stellar including Mercedes‐Benz, ghd and Italian design experts Boffi.
Wordstorm PR wins 50 Shades of Chocolate and Picster accounts WordStorm PR is now representing 50 Shades of Chocolate, a book illustrating that sensuality and chocolate are a marraige made in heaven. The book is written by Claire Preen who is the founder of The Blue Mountains Chocolate Company located in The Blue Mountains and the Hunter Barn, in the Hunter Valley. Claire is passionate about all things chocolate and fun and is keen to offer her take on why chocolate and s*x should both be guilt free! WordStorm's brief is to build Claire's profile through traditional and social media. Wordstorm PR has also won the PR account for Picster
F4 Consulting wins YourShare PR account F4 Consulting has been appointed as PR agency of record for cash‐back provider, YourShare, following a competitive three way pitch. F4 will work with YourShare to increase Australian’s awareness of the fees and commissions on financial products that consumers can claim back by using YourShare. These are estimated at approximately $14.5B nationally. Independent consultancy, F4, will implement consumer marketing initiatives including media and blogger relations, social media and consumer promotions for YourShare. Fergus Kibble, Founder and Managing Director of F4 Consulting said: “We will help YourShare use a strong, strategic communication program to expand their reach and deliver more cash back to Australians.” Established over 12 months ago by ex‐Hill + Knowlton General Manager, Fergus Kibble, F4 has secured a number of major brands as clients including Dairy Farmers, King Island Dairy, Betty Crocker and Rentokil. Based in Sydney’s CBD, F4 recently hired an Account Manager, Janina Czado to join its growing team of specialist communication consultants. Founded in 2012 by Fergus Kibble, F4 is backed by BlueChip Communication, a financial services communication firm. For more information, visit www.f4consulting.com.au
Gate 7 wins HomeExchange account HomeExchange.com, a vacation accommodation alternative, has appointed Sydney‐based agency, Gate 7 to grow brand awareness and drive new memberships in Oceania. Gate 7’s appointment marks the first time HomeExchange has had full time, ongoing PR representation in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. With a current member base of 45,000 worldwide, HomeExchange sees over 75,000 successful home exchanges every year and is positively regarded as a frugal, safe, cultural and environmentally sustainable way to travel.
Agency News
Sefiani launches multicultural communications service Australian PR agency, Sefiani, has launched a new multicultural communications service, targeting Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse population, with an initial focus on the Chinese, Indian, and Islamic speaking communities. With nearly one‐quarter of Australians born overseas, four million Australians speaking a language other than English at home, and close to 1 in 10 of the population identifying with Asian ancestry, Sefiani’s new service taps into Australia’s high‐ value multicultural market. In the first month of offering the new service, Sefiani has been engaged on three multicultural communication projects: India‐based YuppTV, the world’s largest Internet TV provider and one of the world’s leading platform for Indian programs, sought Sefiani’s help to launch SUN Network channels in Australia, offering live Indian news, TV programs and the latest Bollywood movies, streamed directly to mobile devices. Sefiani responded with a communications program focussed on Indian media and participation at the recent Indian Holi Festival. For Islamic wealth manager Crescent Wealth, Sefiani announced the company’s sponsorship deal with the first predominately Muslim women’s AFL team, the Auburn Tigers, in Western Sydney, achieving high profile broadcast and print media coverage and talkability in mainstream and Islamic media channels and events. In addition, Sefiani is working closely with Hotels.com on the development of its annual Chinese International Travel Monitor (CITM), a global report which provides a comprehensive look into the needs and wants of Chinese travellers. Robyn Sefiani, managing director, Sefiani, said; “Australia is well‐positioned to benefit from the transformation of our Asian neighbours into an economic powerhouse. Immigration trends show that China and India are Australia’s leading sources of new migrants, and this point to a growing, untapped consumer market, with culturally relevant communication needs.” In 2010‐11, for the first time in Australian history, Britain was not the main source of new permanent migrants as more people moved here from China than any other country. And in 2011‐12, India was the number one source of new permanent migrants.
The Remarkables Group adds three new Gen Y bloggers The Remarkables Group has signed three bloggers to its agency register, bringing its stable of “blogger talent” to 15 blogs. The new bloggers are: 1. Carly Jacobs – www.smaggle.com 2. Matthew Ross – www.daddownunder.wordpress.com 3. Laura McWhinnie – www.thisislandlife.com Carly Jacobs has been blogging for six years and has built a large following on her blog, where she shares health, beauty, fashion and lifestyle advice. Her work has appeared in Cleo, Cosmopolitan, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Newer to blogging is Matthew Ross, having only taken his first online steps in early 2012 to document his experiences as a stay‐at‐home father. Laura McWhinnie is a digital copywriter and social media specialist who has built her blog This Island Life around the motto “it’s always summer somewhere”, where she shares a tropical mix of travel, fashion, beauty and culture. The Remarkables Group celebrated their first birthday this month. Happy first birthday!
Sweaty Betty launches blogger talent agency: The Ministry of Talent Sydney based PR agency, Sweaty Betty PR, has launched a blogger talent agency specialising in commercial deals for selected Bloggers, initially in the fashion/beauty sector. Initial clients include fashion bloggers include Elle Ferguson, Tash Sefton and Bianca Cheah An example of The Ministry of Talent’s new bloggers is Antoinette Marie who blogs at http://www.sydneyfashionblogger.blogspot.com.au/: Antoinette (photo, right) has worked in advertising for over 10 years and is now a stylist and creative producer for ACP Magazines. Constantly surrounded by beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories Antoinette was driven to start what she calls an online ‘mood board’ of her outfits, fashion quotes, collages and images that inspire her. Sydney Fashion Blogger documents Antoinette’s outfits, providing her readers with a daily dose of sartorial inspiration. What started as a creative outlet for the self confessed shopaholic has grown into a popular blog boasting thousands of loyal followers. How successful is Antoinette? The proof is in the traffic and followers: Website visits: 950k per month with Unique visits: 320k per month Facebook: 44,307 and Instagram: 200,000 Interested bloggers contact Sweaty Betty Founder & CEO: Roxy Jacenko; roxy@sweatybettypr.com
Fleishmann Hillard: revamps brand identity and launches digital publication FleishmanHillard have launched a fnew brand identity, and created TRUE – a digital magazine. TRUE has engaged forward thinkers from business, academia, consulting and other disciplines to share their insights on new realities, challenges and opportunities that exist at the intersection of marketing, communications and media. FleishmanHillard has appointed veteran journalist Pat Wechsler as editor and content strategist. Wechsler joined FleishmanHillard with more than 25 years’ experience as a writer and editor at prestigious media brands such as Business Week, Bloomberg News, Crain’s New York Business, New York Magazine and Newsday. FleishmanHillard TRUE (www.true.fleishmanhillard.com) will publish a themed issue each quarter, but will refresh portions of its content weekly so it has an opportunity to weigh in on developing stories. The first publication explores the evolving relationship between a company’s brand – what it says about itself – and a company’s reputation – what others say about it. The launch issue includes interviews with Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya on the Greek yogurt maker's challenge to remain entrepreneurial after hitting $1 billion in sales and Hyatt CMO John Wallis on how companies need to recognize employees as potentially their best spokespeople. It also features commentary by Simon Sinek, author of Start With Why, on the ability of some companies to inspire.
KPMG acquires financial comms firm; Makinson Cowell KPMG has acquired Makinson Cowell, one of Europe’s leading independent financial communications and equity markets advisory firms. Headquartered in the UK, Makinson Cowell services clients across Europe, USA and Australia. For over two decades, Makinson Cowell has helped the boards of its clients build direct relationships with institutional equity investors; providing objective insight into the way their companies are perceived by these institutions and what this means for the rating of their shares and their ability to raise equity capital. KPMG’s UK Chairman, Simon Collins, said “… at a time when companies are increasingly looking to ensure advice is independent from the underlying sources of finance, the combination of KPMG’s debt advisory business with the equity services provided by Makinson Cowell will create a market leading independent capital advisory business.” Commenting on what the acquisition means for KPMG’s Australian firm, Head of Advisory Gary Wingrove said; “This acquisition is an important signal to the Australian market that we are looking to grow this business.” The acquisition is consistent with KPMG’s strategy of building a highly respected, independent financial advisory business which began in 1998 when the firm established an independent debt advisory team under the leadership of Simon Collins (now Chairman and Senior Partner of KPMG UK) advising major corporates on all aspects of their debt financing.
Hotwire launches digital media monitoring platform Global PR and communications agency Hotwire, has launched a digital media monitoring service, or what the agency refers to as an “in‐house analytics platform” developed by 33 Digital. The new service comprises: • Social media audit and audience analytics, ability to analyse messaging, audience, tone, pet subjects and issues. • Reputation management: monthly, daily, and hourly reports on social media buzz, topics related to the client • Crisis communications, scrutiny of social conversation between stakeholders who shape a story during the crisis. • Influencer relations, understanding up‐to‐date attitudes towards issues and brands. Phil Sheard, Country Manager for 33 Digital Australia, commented, “Managing PR or communications now starts and ends with data. We built Listening Post after being required to track conversations in real time, target influencers who wield the power to start or stop a story spreading online, and measuring in more detail how organisations and brands influence conversations.” Hotwire Australia MD, Suzanne Hewitt (pic, right), said, “We have now rolled this out to over 180 consultants across all Hotwire and 33 Digital offices worldwide, and it has already been well received and quickly implemented into campaigns.” Hotwire would not supply pricing for the service to The PR Report.
Appointments
Plowman new CEO for H+K, Cook takes UK health MD post Paul Plowman has joined Hill+Knowlton (H+K) Strategies in Sydney, as CEO. Plowman was previously Director of Communications for Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett. He has also operated his own corporate, public affairs and government relations business. plowman brings a new client to the firm, Competitive Foods Australia Limited, one of Australia’s largest privately owned companies, where he has been acting as in‐house government and corporate affairs counsel to its chairman and CEO, Jack Cowin. Earlier this year H+K opened an office in Canberra and announced the appointment of Simeon Duncan as Director Public Affairs, Canberra. Simeon has worked in senior communications and campaign roles in the Howard Government and to three Opposition Leaders. The increased investment in corporate and public affairs is in line with H+K Australia’s business strategy to grow in these areas, whilst not losing sight of its strengths in sectors such as health, food, travel and technology and core services such as marketing communications, crisis management and digital. Sue Cook, who has been leading the Australian business as Managing Director for the past two years, is transferring within the H+K network to the London office to take up the role of Managing Director Healthcare and Medical Knowledge Group. Sue will lead the company’s multi‐million pound healthcare and medical education businesses, expanding the sector and service offers and manage a high performing team of around 25. She will sit on the Executive Leadership Council of H+K London.
Sue has an extensive career in health communications and was formerly H+K’s Asia Pacific health practice director before being appointed Managing Director of H+K Australia. Under Sue’s leadership the Australian office has worked for and won a premium list of clients in the Government, food, health, public affairs, consumer and travel sectors. It has built a focus on integrated offers including food+life for the food and beverage sector, which draws on its expertise in nutrition, health and public affairs, and a similar capability for the mining and energy sector. The company recently completed a 15‐month contract with the Department of Health and Ageing, working with McKinsey and PwC to support the launch of the Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record system. H+K has also strengthened its capabilities in media training, crisis management, digital strategy and campaigning. It has recently launched an innovative new product, Flight School, a proprietary social media crisis simulation tool, which assists organisations to test their readiness in the event of a social media crisis ‐ in a completely secure and interactive environment. The excellence in client work was recognised last year with 11 industry awards, including two Gold and six Silver SABREs for client programs in social media, health, travel and consumer sectors in the 2012 Holmes Report Asia‐Pacific SABRE Awards.
CHOICE appoints Godfrey as Head of Media Consumer lobby group CHOICE has announced that Tom Godfrey will take on the role of Head of Media, bringing with him over 15 years of experience in public relations, corporate communications and digital media strategy. Tom has held senior marketing, communications and management roles with Standards Australia, the British Standards Institution, SAI Global, Bell George Communications and BG Mobile Apps. His work spans social media, public relations, corporate branding and media management. He is also a non‐executive director at Goods Environmental Choice Australia.
Hill+Knowlton appoints Reiher to head sports division Hill+Knowlton Strategies Australia has announced the appointment of Helen Reiher (photo; right) as Director of the company’s growing Sports Marketing + Sponsorship team. Reporting in to the company’s global director of Sports Marketing + Sponsorship – Andy Sutherden – Helen’s appointment comes at a period of intense growth for H+K’s global Sports Marketing + Sponsorship team, which was awarded Sports Agency of the Year 2013 at the BT Sport Industry Awards in the UK. The H+K team won the sought after award for its work during the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games which was activated across over 14 markets worldwide. Helen will be supported by a team of consultants including H+K’s newly appointed CEO Paul Plowman, who bolsters the company's sports credentials having previously worked with AFL’s West Coast Eagles and the Freemantle Football Club. As part of her new role Helen will also be seconded to the H+K’s London office once a year to support the company’s global team and share insight and experience within the H+K network. She will play a role in the ICC Champions Trophy to be held this June in the UK.
Amongst its most recent work in the Sports Marketing + Sponsorship fold, H+K Australia provided consultancy and event support for Abu Dhabi Tourism and Cultural Authority with its sponsorship of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne, as well as carrying out a comprehensive campaign for Glaucoma Australia involving 18 sporting ambassadors.
Marissa Tree joins Hill+Knowlton Thailand Marissa Tree, corporate communications and PR consultant hailing from Brisbane and Melbourne, has left Australian shores to join the Thailand office of global public relations firm Hill+Knowlton Strategies in an Account Director role. With a unique combination of internal and agency roles spanning the past decade, Marissa was most recently Communications Manager for FoodWorks Supermarkets, and has also held senior roles with Ogilvy Public Relations in Melbourne and Red Agency in Brisbane. “Hill+Knowlton Strategies is one of the world’s leading public relations firms and I am most looking forward to expanding my global awareness of the role of corporate communications and learning more about emerging Asian economies which are helping drive significant business growth in developed markets. “H+K’s approach came at a time when I was looking to work with international brands and be part of a results‐orientated team – this role and the H+K team in Thailand certainly ticks those boxes,” she said. Thailand managing director Kanpirom Ungpakorn says Marissa’s appointment is key to strengthening its corporate communications offering to a range of global clients. Specifically, Marissa will be leading the accounts for Coca‐Cola and Thai Union Frozen Products, the world’s largest manufacturer and exporter of seafood and fish products. “Marissa’s experience working with food and grocery brands in a corporate communications capacity, as well as being a well‐rounded consultant who understands the sorts of communications challenges our clients face, was exactly what we were looking for to be an integral part of our team,” she said. “Thailand has experienced strong, steady growth for a number of years and we have developed an enviable roster of global brands including leading local Thai brands that are helping put the country on the global business map,” said Ms Ungpakorn.
Articles
Australian Government’s anti‐alcohol message delivered to youth via Surfing Australia sponsorship (Editor’s note: The PR Report covered the risks around the issue of how alcohol was promoted in The PR report’s Top 20 Trends Report in 2011: http://goo.gl/Cov4k) Using the headline “Surfing Australia Signs Up To Help Tackle Youth Binge Drinking” both Government and sporting association have started a campaign to get the PR message through to Australian youth on binge drinking. Surfing Australia is the latest national sporting organisation to join the Australian Government’s “Be the Influence ‐ Tackling Binge Drinking” sponsorship spend. Be the Influence ‐ Tackling Binge Drinking is addressing youth binge drinking and the influence of alcohol promotion on young Australians by promoting anti‐binge drinking messaging through sport sponsorships. Under the sponsorship, Be the Influence ‐Tackling Binge Drinking is now a major partner of Surfing Australia with ASP World Tour competitors Owen Wright and Sally Fitzgibbons becoming Be the Influence Surfing Ambassadors.
The sponsorship covers Surfing Australia’s six State branches and their 104 events conducted nationwide; and Surfing Australia’s Team Australia program, which sends seven teams to all of the International Surfing Association’s global events. The sponsorship also includes naming rights to two new national events: the Be the Influence Surf Pro, the fourth and final event of the 2013 ASP Australasia Pro Junior Series, from 12th‐14th July in NSW; and the Be the Influence Australian SUP and Paddleboard Titles in November. Also, naming rights to State events such as the upcoming Be the Influence Queensland Master’s and Women’s Surfing Series, which commences on May 18. Be the Influence will be a support sponsor for the Australian Surf Festival and the Australian Junior Surfing Titles. A total of 15 sports are now part of Be the Influence, including the Football Federation of Australia, Netball Australia, Basketball Australia and Swimming Australia. Information on Be the Influence ‐ Tackling Binge Drinking can be found at www.tacklingbingedrinking.gov.au The Be the Influence ‐ Tackling Binge Drinking sponsorship is managed through the Australian National Preventive Health Agency.
Max Markson in ABC TV celebrity docudrama Are ‘leaked’ celebrity s*x tapes the ultimate in self marketing? Want to be famous but have no talent? Never fear there is a whole industry to help with that little set back. In the Head First episode ‘Fame, Lies & S*x Tape’ (Wednesday at 9.30pm on ABC2) ‐ filmmaker Sabour Bradley takes Queensland celebrity wannabe Skye Harper (Ladette to Lady) on a fame seeking trail. Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GijulTYTPdo&feature=youtu.be According to the ABC publicity: “Skye is fantastic and definitely has celebrity potential – only problem is she doesn’t have any talent (she can’t sing, dance, act or tell jokes.) So what can she do to get famous? Sabour asks experts like PR agent Max Markson as well as US ‘reality star’ agent Gina Rodriguez for their advice. Max Markson tells them that to be a celebrity Skye should be “Looking for a media moment that will break you through,” while his words of wisdom to ‘Manager’ Sabour is to “Push her till she cries.”
NSW Fire & Rescue: 30 sec TVC on a budget Following our previous article on in‐house Head of PR and Comms at NSW Fire & rescue, Andy Parsons, producing his own corporate TV adverts and corporate videos, here is an example of a 30 second TVC created in‐house by Parsons and his team for a NSW TV campaign promoting Fire Station Open Days. According to Parsons, this is an example of his usual three day production plan (initial idea to final product), mixed in with, in Parson’s words; “$150 worth of lollies, sausage sanga's and enthusiastic kids on school holidays... oh, and a fire station” See the 30 second TVC here: http://youtu.be/A7YRFXexGKI
Securitor financial advisers get training & content for social media Financial services firm, Securitor, owned by BT Financial group, has launched a social media capability for their advisers across Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn, providing financial advisers with another tool to help engage with their clients and their community. This tailored social media offering helps financial advisers use social media effectively, as well as to drive new opportunities for growth. It also assists in the provision of content to help support the delivery of ongoing service to clients. Securitor MD Matt Englund says Securitor’s social media strategy has been built with the deliberate goal of bringing its value proposition to life. “For Securitor, social media is about cementing our adviser relationships, expanding our community of influence, and encouraging transparency by demonstrating the value of advice.” Securitor’s social media approach addresses these issues through social media training which involves webinars and masterclasses as well as policies and etiquette guides so advisers can implement a social media strategy for their own businesses.
4th Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards 2013: call for entries PR agencies are welcome to enter corporate films, on‐line media and TV documentaries to the 4th Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards, one of the world’s newest festivals for corporate films. Deadline for submissions: June 14th, 2013 See www.cannescorporate.com The international competition is open to corporations, public relation agencies, institutions (ministries, city halls, public institutions), TV stations, production companies, multimedia companies, film producers, film makers, as well as students. New categories include Politics in Marketing Communication
Health comms: Nominations now open for 2013 Luminous Award All print and broadcast journalists from across Australia are invited to enter the 2013 Luminous Award, which recognises outstanding journalism in the field of oncology. The Luminous Award honours journalists who serve the community by providing responsible, accurate and timely information on advances in cancer prevention, research, treatment and patient support. This year the awards will again offer a cash prize of $5,000 for the winner and $1000 for the runner up in each of the three categories: • Best Cancer Related Feature – Print • Best Cancer Related Feature – Broadcast • Best Reporting on Cancer for Health Professionals (NEW!) The Luminous Awards are hosted by the Clinical Oncological Society of Australia (COSA) and proudly supported by Lilly Australia.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Australia, with more than 39,000 people dying from cancer each year. The good news is that we are seeing important advances in treatment, prevention and patient care. The Luminous Award recognises those who help raise awareness, provide accurate and balanced information and keep consumers informed about these potentially lifesaving advances. With the enormous burden cancer places on the Australian community we want to acknowledge the vital role of journalists in keeping the public informed. The Award program is open to all practising Australian journalists who have had an article published or broadcast between January 2012 and June 2013. In 2013 a new category has been introduced, Best Reporting on Cancer for Health Professionals which is for outstanding reporting on cancer issues specifically for journalists writing for a health industry audience. Nominations for the 2013 Awards close at 5.00pm (AEST) Friday 12 July 2013. For more information and nomination details please visit the COSA website (www.cosa.org.au) or email COSA at cosa@cancer.org.au.
PRIA creates new membership groups The Public Relations Institute of Australia established a National Membership Pop‐Up Committee to examine the existing structures and recommended a number of changes affecting in‐house public relations teams and student memberships. A new "organisational" level membership has been created to better meet the needs of in‐house public relations teams. The organisational membership is broken down into four categories being "government", "corporate", "not‐for‐profit" and "tertiary education". The primary benefits of this new level of membership will be a group discount to organisations with four or more staff and organisational members also have the opportunity to customise benefits that suit their relevant sector in conjunction with PRIA. The "Student" membership category has also received an overhaul and will now be offered in line with the academic year, running from April 1 to March 30 rather than reflecting the financial year. PRIA has also introduced a new "Student Ambassador Program". This initiative is designed to encourage PRIA student representatives studying Public Relations or Communication degrees or certificates to formally interact with their peers on behalf of PRIA. In return student ambassadors will be formally recognised by PRIA for their achievements, have access to high level PR professionals, have the opportunity to be published and will also be offered access to events and conferences. Photo, right; PRIA Victoria held their annual Women in PR dinner with 400 PR and media practitioners attending.
Menzies Research Centre book launch: State of the Nation State of the Nation: this book analyses aspects of Australian public policy, and is a critique of the policies and performance of the Rudd and Gillard governments since 2007 in diverse policy areas. http://goo.gl/dTL74
Salt & Shein releases 2013 Trends and Issues in Corporate Affairs Report How are communications practitioners responding to the seismic changes that are occurring in the Australian media industry? With fewer journalists filing stories for different platforms, how have the rules of engagement with media changed? These are just some of the questions and themes that are explored in the 2013 Trends and Issues in Corporate Affairs Report released by leading communications recruiter, Salt & Shein. For its 2013 report, Salt & Shein once again interviewed some of Australia’s leading corporate affairs practitioners for their views on the key issues and challenges facing the profession. “Creating highly targeted content for different media channels is the new game in town,” says Peter Salt. “Savvy communicators are embracing the ‘content is king’ mantra with gusto by creating digital content to deliver messages and corporate positioning.” Salt & Shein are convinced communicators must adapt their thinking beyond the press release and interviews to packaging up messages in easily digestible digital formats, such as video, graphics and photography. With hundreds of media jobs slashed, there is also growing concern among communicators about the impact this is having on reporting standards and quality. “The recent case of Whitehaven Coal, where journalists were duped by a false ASX announcement issued by anti‐mining protestors, highlights a worrying trend,” says Josh Shein. “Corporate affairs practitioners are very worried about this ‘file first, correct later’ mentality that is creeping into media coverage as the pressures increase on reporters to be first with the story online. “As in the Whitehaven example, this can have serious implications for share price and reputation.” Salt & Shein’s 2013 Trends and Issues in Corporate Affairs Report was researched and produced by GSG Counsel, and can be downloaded at www.saltshein.com.au
Media
Newsmodo goes live: PRs/media can buy/sell stories Designed by journalists, Newsmodo is a revolutionary platform that allows media professionals to source or sell newsworthy content worldwide. Organisations can access a secure site to find the images, video and copy they need for print, tv and online publications. Reporters and camera operators in every continent can submit work for sale and respond to real assignments, getting the stories newsrooms need, fast and cost effectively. Newsmodo’s goal is to redefine the way media source and cover stories. The mission is to make Newsmodo the chosen destination for newsrooms to acquire content, whilst providing a fast and cost effective means of capturing events by utilizing our global network of contributors. Newsmodo was founded by Melbourne based Rakhal Ebeli. An award‐winning journalist and presenter, Rakhal Ebeli founded Newsmodo after more than a decade working with one of Australia's broadcasters. Go to www.newsmodo.com and register to start sourcing or selling news stories: www.newsmodo.com
New online publication launches: The Citizen www.thecitizen.org.au/news/journalism‐next‐generation The Citizen blends “pro‐am” journalists; mixing students with professional journalists.
AFR TV rates better than ABC Inside Business According to Glenn Dyer, writing in Crikey, The AFR’s new business TV show launch episode beat Alan Kohler’s ABC Sunday morning show, Inside Business. According to Dwyer: “…Financial Review Sunday beat Alan Kohler's ABC show Inside Business by 80,000 viewers nationally. The AFR TV had a solid 286,000 national and 197,000 metro viewers while Inside Business had 202,000 nationally and 132,000 metro on ABC1.”
Benchmark Media hosts launch party SPAA Journalist of the Year, and founder of publication SelfManagedSuper, Darin Tyson‐Chan (on left by microphone in photo), gives a speech at the launch party for Benchmark Media’s new publications business. A large crowd turned out at The Hilton in Sydney to wish Darin every success:
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Social Media opportunity for PR Agencies
In Australia, many organisations struggle to understand Social Media. Uncertainty surrounds what to do, how to go about it an how to manage conversations once they commence. However, almost all recognise the need to participate and become engage in conversations. Is your PR Agency embracing and leveraging the revenue opportunities around Social Media? If your corporate clients aren’ talking to you about their Social Media strategy and how to manage it – then who are they talking to? And what does that mea for your PR business in the medium to long term? Johnsons Corporate M&A is working with a specialist Social Media Agency that would be a great fit within a larger PR company Operating since 2009, the Business comprises a passionate team of 6 Social Media experts and an impressive list of loya corporate clients across various industries such as insurance, technology, engineering, professional services, food, stat government and consumer goods. This Business specialises in assisting corporate clients to manage engagement through Social Media channels. It help organisations to understand why, how and when they should engage through Social Media. It assists not only with strateg formulation but implementation, which can include: content creation, managing communication flows, measuring results an reporting against pre‐determined campaign objectives. In a relatively new and high growth market segment, this specialist Social Media Agency has established a strong track record o corporate level experience and a valuable reputation within Social Media. Operating a revenue model based on value pricing rather than time based billing, it delivers EBIT margins of circa 25%. Revenue for FY13 is estimated at $1 million. If this opportunity is of interest to your PR Agency then contact Adrian Ness, Johnsons Corporate M&A on (02) 8211 0523 for further information. Feel the love Fairfax journalist credits PPR agency pitch
NSW Government’s app helps people suffering domestic violence A new smart phone app has been launched for people who are experiencing domestic and family violence. The app is gives users the ability to create a trusted network of friends who can be easily contacted with an agreed message and a GPS system to ‘call‐for‐help’ and alert recipients of the sender’s location. The Aurora domestic violence app has been developed by the NSW Government to help people who are experiencing abuse to make informed, empowered choices. The app was developed in consultation with the NSW Police Force, with input from experts from the domestic and family violence sector.
Job of the Month
Senior Account Director, Sydney $125‐150k A seriously amazing opportunity for someone with with absolutely top‐notch skills. This agency has an outstanding reputation and would catapult your future PR career so if you have a strong agency background in the consumer field and want to work with some internationally‐renowned clients, then get in touch. CONTACT: E: Amanda@capstonehillsearch.com (Sydney) / E: Jeremy@capstonehillsearch.com (Melbourne and international) T: Melbourne: +61 (0) 3 9827 7277 / T: Sydney +61 (0) 2 8035 3429 / T: London: +44 (0) 20 7182 4210 Twitter: @capstonehill
INTERNATIONAL ROLES: we currently have numerous roles in: • New York • London • Hong Kong • Singapore • Zurich Go to http://capstonehillsearch.com/roles to find out more. London Melbourne
35/209 Toorak Rd South Yarra Victoria 3141
33 Cavendish Square London, W1G 0PW
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Sydney Level 4, 63 Foveaux Street Surry Hills NSW 2010
SYDNEY / MELBOURNE / LONDON
Capstone Hill Search (CHS) provides specialist recruitment services to the Public Relations, Corporate Affairs and Marketing Communications industry. With offices in Sydney, Melbourne and London, and covering roles across Europe and Asia, CHS takes a truly international approach and utilises decades of practical experience to successfully provide guidance to, search for, select and appoint high quality practitioners with first class clients. CHS is the only international recruitment consultancy to be endorsed by the PRCA Below are a few of the roles we have currently available:
Senior Consultant, Sydney $55‐$65k SYDNEY ROLES: This very well respected agency is looking for a senior consultant to work in one of two separate areas. So, if you have an enterprise technology or a consumer technology background, this role could be for you. You will need 2‐3 years experience and be hoping to transition into an AM role shortly. If this sounds like you, please forward your CV. Account Director, Sydney $90‐$120k If you are a consumer gun and want to work for a top agency and great clients, then please get in touch. This is a fabulous opportunity offering the right candidate the chance to really progress their career from a strategic and new business point of view. You will be part of a relatively small but high performing team who are going places. Account Manager/Senior Account Manager, Sydney, $50‐70k Do you love fashion? One of Sydney's leading boutique PR agencies specialising in fashion, beauty and lifestyle have two amazing opportunities for an outstanding consultants. As one of Sydney’s best performing agencies with a brilliant and very happy culture, this lovely independent consultancy requires an AM and a SAM with experience and confidence to hit the ground running with some of the world's leading brands. Don't miss out! PR Consultant, Sydney, $55‐$70k (contract or permanent) Our client, a small but growing B2B Sydney consultancy, requires a new AM/SAM to join its impressive company. The successful applicant needs to have maturity and be completely reliable with 3‐6 years agency experience, You should have the ability to understand complex issues, be creative and be able to provide strategic planning, execution and results in mainstream, business, trade and social media. Account Director (Corporate), MELBOURNE, $100k+ MELBOURNE ROLES: This rapidly growing national consultancy group is looking to add senior resource to help support its client list that boasts an attractive list high profile clients and challenging and dynamic campaigns. A confident team leader and senior pair of hands, you also have proven ability to advise diverse and/or large organisations. You ideally have very strong digital and social experience and diverse industry/client experience. Proven agency/consultancy background required. Media Director, MELBOURNE, $125k++ This is a rare and very desirable opportunity for a first class, highly experienced and very well connected media expert to join one of Australia’s most respected consultancies. Suiting a former national journalist with outstanding contacts and credentials this role will support a broad range of clients across existing campaigns and in response to issues, crisis and reputation management. Strong experience in social and digital is also highly desirable. Highly supportive team, first class leadership and outstanding internal resources await the successful applicant. Director, Corporate, MELBOURNE, $120k‐ $130k (Negotiable Package) This very highly regarded, awarded and exceptionally well run Melbourne consultancy is looking to appoint a senior practitioner further strengthen its offer in the corporate comms/issues and reputation management space. You will have a proven track record of proving senior counsel and insights at the highest level and sound ability to strategically navigate difficult and challenging issues, crisis and or change management programs. You thrive on challenging and complex subject matter and have diverse industry knowledge and experience. You should have strong and proven consultancy experience. Group Director, Consumer, MELBOURNE, $140k+ Negotiable Package This prominent and universally respected consultancy requires a senior and highly experienced practitioner to add to its formidable brand/consumer practice. You have extensive major brand experience and have strong, creative and diverse experience in digital campaigns as much as you do in traditional. A proven leader and natural people person you should have a strong network and the ability to build new relationships quickly. Significant consultancy experience required. E: Amanda@capstonehillsearch.com (Sydney) / E: Jeremy@capstonehillsearch.com (Melbourne and international)
Partner, Corporate This is a great opportunity to join a reputable agency at a very senior level, working with peers to continue growth You must have at least 12 years’ experience and be passionate about effecting change in the corporate and public affairs PR space An opportunity for equity exists down the line.
Ike Levick 0405 218 626 ilevick@saltshein.com.au
“I was impressed with the help I received from Salt & Shein. I felt positive that my best interests were at heart … I had someone friendly to advise me through the daunting process of job hunting … and secured an ideal job through them …” “Their service is honest, fast, and on-brief every time ... They know our company culture well and take the time to fully understand our requirements … Plus, they’re just straight up nice people to work with.”
Senior Account Manager, Fashion This is a GREAT opportunity to develop your career and work with some really awesome global fashion brands For a confident, strategic SAM who has five years’ experience Ideally you have relationships with Fashion Directors, trade and business media / blogging community? Must have at least six months’ media experience in Australia Deep knowledge and understanding of social and digital media campaigns required Ability to lead and mentor junior team members Senior Account Manager – Fin Services This mid-sized PR agency is seeking a confident SAM to cover a range of multi-national financial service and technology People with a journalist background will be considered You will have exceptional pitching and story-telling skills, understand the media cycles and what each of the main media outlets favour Sydney CBD, immediate start Account/Associate Director – Technology This is a newly created role for a rapidly expanding global tech PR agency Strong account and people management skills are required Your ability to think, strategise and provide direction is important Local market and media landscape knowledge is ESSENTIAL Senior Account Manager – Professional Services This award-winning, very well established corporate PR agency is seeking a well-established SAM with professional services experience The emphasis of the role is on media relations, smart thinking and writing quite technical content for a range of prof services clients This agency suits people who prefer working in a corporate, fastpaced environment with very high standards We enjoy talking with people well before they are ready to move roles, so that we know who you are when the time is right! Do get in touch if you want to be kept informed of upcoming opportunities. http://au.linkedin.com/in/ikelevick
Level 3, 20 Bond Street, Sydney www.saltshein.com.au
www.saltshein.com.au
Communications Consultant We are looking for a dynamic, creative and results driven professional, who is committed to building a career as a specialist in digital and online communication to join our busy Melbourne office. You must be a self-starter, who understands the importance of social media within the marketing communications mix and be at home speaking to bloggers and journalists. Fenton Communications is a leading Australian strategic communications agency with specialist expertise in health, sustainability, infrastructure, resources, social justice, community and professional services. Our services include a full range of integrated marketing communications, public relations, digital, design and social media. Core requirements of the position include: • Two – three years experience (ideally in a consulting/ agency environment) • Strong writing skills • Experience managing online communities, developing social media content and engaging with bloggers • An understanding of website structure and functionality • Hands on ability to set up and manage social platforms • Experience and confidence in delivering successful media relations • A relevant undergraduate degree. You will take pride in your work and have exceptional attention to detail. Importantly, you will thrive at seeking out new trends, emerging technologies or platforms and finding creative communication solutions. As part of the Fenton team you will enjoy a supportive culture, challenging and exciting work with great clients as well as learning and development opportunities. If this sounds like the job for you, please send an application to theteam@fenton.com.au. Your application must include an application letter, your resume and your Twitter handle. Please note, all short listed candidates will be invited for interview and be required to complete a writing test.
www.fenton.com.au
Late News:
Barton Deakin opens doors in WA Government relations firm Barton Deakin, part of the STW Group, continues to expand its national footprint, opening its doors in WA to service the broader business community in the West. The Barton Deakin WA office will be headed up by Eacham Curry as Managing Director, bringing nearly 20 years of professional government experience to the firm.
MEAA launches cover for freelance journalists Freelance Pro launched: The Media Alliance has launched a new class of membership for freelance journalists, Freelance Pro. Members will be entitled to professional indemnity and public liability insurance, contract advice, a media access card and training in ethics and media law. To find out more about Freelance Pro see http://www.alliance.org.au/freelance‐pro
SenateSHJ wins four global IABC Gold Quill Awards • Gold Quills for Excellence awarded for Evocities, Palliative Care Australia and CTV Building report • Gold Quill Merit awarded for Acute Coronary Syndromes – Perceptions in Perspective campaign Specialist communications consultancy SenateSHJ is thrilled to announce it has been awarded four Gold Quill Awards by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). The Gold Quill Awards recognise communications excellence on a global scale. SenateSHJ won three Gold Quill Excellence Awards for: • Evocities ‐ How research showed Evocities was worth AU$48 million, Research Innovation category (led by Susan Redden Makatoa) for a project conceived and implemented by SenateSHJ to conduct Australian (and possibly world) first research to determine the economic value of attracting new residents to a regional city. This is the second Gold Quill Excellence Award Evocities has received, after winning the media relations category in 2011. • National Palliative Care Week, Non‐Profit Campaigns category (led by Susan Redden Makatoa), a media and stakeholder campaign conducted in Australia for Palliative Care Australia to support National Palliative Care Week 2011. • CTV Building report, Issues and Crisis Management category (led by Neil Green) for communications around the release of a highly sensitive report into why the CTV building collapsed in the February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. SenateSHJ also won a Gold Quill Merit Award for: • Acute Coronary Syndromes – Perceptions in Perspective campaign, Media Relations category (led by Naomi Mermod) for a media campaign to raise awareness of Acute Coronary Syndromes in Australia and support the launch and regulatory milestones of a new oral antiplatelet medication.
Edelman’s Jen Crowcroft wins 2013 Lizzie PR award Winners from the 2013 Microsoft IT Journalism Awards – aka The Lizzies: David Hellaby Best Media Relations: Jen Crowcroft Best Title: SMH.com.au Best Journalist: David Ramli Best News Coverage: CommsDay, iTnews Best Magazine: PC & Tech Authority Best Website: Gizmodo Best Audio Program: Download This Show Best Video Program: SMH.com.au ‐ Digital Dreamers Cass Warneminde Best News Journalist: David Ramli Best Business Technology Coverage: The Australian Financial Review John Costello Best Business Technology Journalist: Adam Turner Best Tech Industry Journalist; David Ramli Best Personal Tech Coverage: Lifehacker Helen Dancer Best Consumer Technology Journalist: Angus Kidman Best Telecommunications Journalist: James Hutchinson Best Gaming Coverage: Kotaku Best Gaming Journalist: Daniel Golding Best Columnist: Sholto Macpherson Best Reviewer: John Gillooly Alicia Camphuisen Best New Journalist: Allie Coyne, David Milner Best Technical Journalist: Nick Ross Best Independent Media: TECHGEEK.com.au
Gate 7 wins Washington DC account Gate 7 have been appointed to represent Destination D.C., the destination marketing organisation for the city of Washington D.C. The appointment marks the first time Destination D.C. has had full time, ongoing trade representation in Australia.
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