Corporate Communications

We live in a world of seismic economic, political and social shift – communications specialists are at the sharp end. Expectations of communications specialists are higher, the pace faster and the challenges more demanding than ever.

How you ‘communicate’ as an organisation or as an individual has changed. Chief Executives tweet. The consumer now talks back. CSR and reputation matter. Austerity means the relationship between corporates and their shareholders are strained. Links between the media and government are under intense scrutiny. And if that were not enough, employees want to be the first, not the last to know.

The Corporate Communications discipline is both strategic and tactical.  It is as much about building a brand over ten years as it is being the first person on the end of the phone for the CEO when a crisis hits.  Corporate Communications Directors have a unique and highly influential position within an organisation. 

Government relations has changed. Globally, as businesses look for growth markets, Government Relations Directors must establish a strategy that is globally cohesive but locally relevant.

Internal Communications has never been more important. When competition is fierce, leaders at every level need to bring clarity, inspiration and confidence to their workforce, being prepared to listen and ensure that innovative ideas are captured. Internal Communications Directors can make the difference between peak performance and failure.     

CSR has evolved to being a sophisticated and core part of business strategy – be it a sustainable supply chain or an ethical investment policy. As the next generation entering the workplace is asking about business ethics and environmental strategies, it forms an important part of the ethos and values of a business and a cornerstone of its reputation. CSR Directors are no longer an afterthought.

Investor Relations Directors play a key role within the financial system.  Although usually positioned with the CFO, they too need to understand and deliver their messaging across multiple channels from Investor presentations, Corporate websites and now social media.      

The Corporate Communications Executive Search Practice at Odgers Berndtson works with organisations across the full economy from listed businesses to the largest public bodies. We counsel and help clients clarify their communications challenges and find the right individuals to support them. 

Our networks have been built up over many years and are constantly expanding as we seek out those with judgement, leadership ability, political nous and creativity to operate at the most senior levels in domestic, regional or global contexts. 

We have global capability and differ by working alongside colleagues who are sector experts. We give clients and candidates a more knowledgeable service combining functional and sector expertise. 

We cover the following:

• Corporate communications
• Corporate Affairs
• Media Relations
• Government Relations/Public Affairs
• Social Media
• Internal Communications
• Investor Relations
• CSR
• Reputation Management
• Crisis Communications

If you would like to discuss your communication leadership requirements, please contact, Kate Hamilton-Baily, Head of the Corporate Communications Practice.