'Public relations is about building relationships with your key stakeholders'

What does your current role involve?
I lead on our political engagement with MSPs and the Scottish government. This ranges from working with academic colleagues to produce policy briefings based on their research projects, to writing consultation submissions and meeting with MSPs to discuss some latest facet of work from colleagues and its relevance to the committee they sit on and/or their constituents.

What do you love most about working in public relations?         
I enjoy the variety of the role as it appeals to my nature. At the end of the day, it is all about building relationships with your key stakeholders whomever they may be.

What's been the highlight of your career so far?
I've been very fortunate to have been able to gather a lot of experiences during my career working in education, health, housing and older peoples' sectors. I've also been privileged to serve as a school governor in London, on the former Scottish Higher Education Funding Council and as a local councillor. I can honestly say that despite having worked with some wonderful people working at the Open University is the highlight of my career. The collective passion to make education accessible to all is amazing and the range of work carried out by colleagues across the four nations of the university means it is never dull.

How long have you been a member and what made you join?    
I joined the CIPR in late 2013 after I was made redundant from a previous role. At the time I was a local councillor so obtaining permanent work in public affairs was extremely difficult, so I started my consultancy. Having done some research, I thought there would be benefit in joining the CIPR, not least in the credibility it brings.

How does the CIPR support your career?
I have made the most of my CIPR membership from the outset. I really value the range of CPD activities and resources offered by the CIPR as well as the ability to add your own custom-made activities. I try to attend the online meetings of different groups including CIPR Scotland and make the most of the networking and CPD opportunities. Three years ago, I successfully gained my CIPR diploma in public affairs and then quickly followed it up by becoming a Chartered member of CIPR. Both experiences I value, and the former has led to my starting a PhD with a public affairs theme.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given?          
I wish I could recall a stand out piece of advice but can't. I'm tempted to offer the musings of my late, dearly missed friend Liam Jarnecki who after my speech at my wedding said: "If you can fake sincerity you'll go far.” Many a student officer of the 90s/00s will remember his utterances about "gravitas". Somewhere between the combination of the two is some sage advice.

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 can connect, thrive and grow. Join the CIPR today.

Career advice from other CIPR members

'Good communication can change perceptions and build legacies'

'Being a CIPR Corporate Affiliate gives us access to the best-in-class training'

‘Create content that genuinely respects the people reading it’