‘PR is fast paced but remember to reflect on your achievements’
Chartered PR Leah Elston-Thompson explains her science background aids her theoretical thinking as an account director
Name: Leah Elston-Thompson
Position: Account director at Stone Junction
Location: Stafford, West Midlands
Time in PR: Eight years
What does your current role involve?
As an account director, I run a four person PR team as well as overseeing our graphic design department. I handle retained monthly fees of £25,000 and more (£300,000 per year). My client roster includes a FTSE-listed engineering firm, scientific start-ups and global industrial businesses.
As part of the agency’s senior leadership team, I also act as director of team development. This involves promoting CPD and training across the agency, as well as overseeing our people and culture champion.
What do you love most about working in public relations?
I love that I get to be the first to know about engineering and science developments, and that I get to share these innovations with the media, engineers and scientists, and the wider public. It’s an extremely collaborative career, and it’s a pleasure to work so closely with my clients and colleagues.
What's been the highlight of your career so far?
Winning PR awards for my clients, we have been awarded best STEM campaign multiple times by CIPR Midlands.
Being named rising star a the 2024 PRCA DARE Midlands awards
Passing my chartership assessment.
Having the opportunity to travel: Chicago, Amsterdam and Dublin were my favourite trips.
How long have you been a member and what made you join?
I joined immediately when starting my career, to help build credibility with my clients and build my PR skill set. I am from a science background and I was keen to enhance my theoretical knowledge alongside my practical work.
How does the CIPR support your career?
Last year I did my chartership assessment, which has helped me focus my CPD and development and challenged me to grow as a practitioner. I’m also a volunteer for the Midlands Committee. As its secretary, I’ve learnt from outstanding practitioners in my area. I believe my commitment to CPD via the CIPR is what earn me the accolade of Risin Star of The Year from the PRCA Midlands.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
"I think in such a fast-paced career, it’s easy to be looking forwards to what’s next. But it’s also important to reflect on how far you’ve come, and the positive things you’ve achieved. My coach Caroline Law has always been an advocate for this!"
Find out more about joining the CIPR
Take the next step in your PR career and become a member. The CIPR is a supportive and inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to connect, thrive and grow. Join the CIPR today.