“After several years when [London’s PR Industry] proved to be far more resilient than advertising, a sudden wave of mergers, breakaways and start-ups suggests this is a sector which is being forced to confront change. Size matters. Some PR bosses have decided they need greater scale and global reach, as others have decided they are better off becoming an agile niche player, offering premium services and a more strategic approach.”

~ Evening Standard, 17.10.11

While there may be a ‘sudden wave of start-ups’ emerging, there have been many PR professionals, who had that entrepreneurial spirit a long time ago.  It takes bravery, creativity, agility and resiliency to set up and run your own Agency. Join us to hear from two industry stalwarts, who set up their own shops and continue to thrive. Those attending will: 

• Receive advice for setting up your own Agency – especially during challenging, economic times
• Learn about the joys and challenges of running your own Agency
• Acquire top tips for marketing your Agency and how to win new clients
• Hear about the speakers’ experiences of working as esteemed, UK PR professionals
• Have an opportunity to pose questions during the Q&A session 

Guest Speakers: Belinda Lawson and Jon Bennett

About Belinda:

Belinda Lawson is a PR person through and through, and a great advocate for the profession.   After graduating in Law, she joined the London PR scene where her analytical skills could be combined with a creative approach to business.  She launched Lawson Dodd in 1992 and has worked, and continues to work, for a wide variety of national and international businesses.   

 “For a company to communicate effectively, it has to have vision; and its people have to be passionate about what they do – the rest is down to good planning, having a nose for what’s  interesting and the ability to anticipate the unintended consequences of other people’s actions.”

About Jon:

Jon is a founding director of Linstock Communications and has more than fifteen years’ experience in corporate communications and public affairs. His sectors of expertise include local government, the built environment and financial services. He directs public relations, public affairs and full service marketing campaigns.

Jon was previously director of communications for England’s Regional Development Agencies (RDAs). He helped the nine RDAs handle communication issues surrounding job creation, enterprise, skills and workforce development, physical regeneration, sustainability and tourism. He has a strong track record in helping trade bodies and partnerships agree and work towards common communications goals and has devised campaigns that work at local, regional and national levels. 

Jon steers Linstock’s work for clients including Commercial Estates Group, Regional Cities East and a number of local authorities. Other major organisations he has represented include Aviva, John Lewis, Rathbone’s Unit Trust Management and the Urban Task Force.

Jon holds the CAM Higher Diploma and a Geography degree from CambridgeUniversity, where he specialised in urban development and economics.

Following the speakers, there will be an opportunity to network with other PR professionals over refreshments.

About Ignite

Ignite was established in April 2009 as an inclusive networking group for public relations professionals. Its aim is to drive forward the benefits of cultural diversity in the profession. The group hosts networking events every two months, providing a forum for PR practitioners to learn from experts in their fields and an opportunity to network in an informal setting.

Our Sponsor

Founded 28 years ago, Waggener Edstrom has become one of the largest, global independent communications firms in the world – helping clients such as Microsoft, T-Mobile and Toshiba, to achieve their business goals. As brokers of knowledge and invention, Waggener Edstrom powers digital engagement with an award-winning combination of technological tools and human analytical expertise. They start conversations and turn influence into insight that builds strong and healthy brands.

*Admittance to any lgnite event is at the discretion of the event organisers.*

**There are only 35 places for this event. Early registration is essential to avoid disappointment**