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Communications & new media Aug. 2014 I Vol. 28 No. 8

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Vol. 28, No. 8 August 2014 EDITORIAL STUDY OF THE MOST, AND Financial world awash in bubbles. LEAST, RESPECTED BRANDS A study by CoreBrand shows who gets FACEBOOK REVENUES SURGE 6 26 respect in the corporate brand world. ON MOBILE AD GAINS Historic sales in mobile advertising GAZA AND UKRAINE REVEAL have pushed Facebook’s revenues into8 BREAKDOWN OF LAW bold new territory. Yale Professor Paul Kahn says interna- 28 tional law is being proven ineffective. TOBACCO GIANTS CONFIRM MERGER, GET PR SUPPORT PROFILES OF FINANCIAL PR 14 Reynolds American and Lorillard in & INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS July confirmed a planned merger valued9 at more than $27 billion. 30 RANKINGS OF FINANCIAL PR THE DIGITAL FOOTPRINT & INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS OF FINANCIAL PR 37 A financial client’s digital footprint PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND can cause problems if it doesn’t 10 reflect TRANSPARENCY who they are. Stakes are high for creating professional FINDING THE VALUE IN 38 services strategies, yet the environment VALUE EXCHANGE has never been more challenging. The more you can do to help key 41 influencers, the more they’ll be willing12 to HOW HUMAN RESOURCES www.odwyerpr.com help you. COMPANIES USE TWITTER Daily, up-to-the-minute PR news Social media, especially Twitter, is THE MISSING ELEMENT IN 40 about connecting with individuals, not WALL STREET RECOVERY the masses. Most financial leaders haven’t 14 noticed the rise in negative public atti- HOW IMPACT LITIGATION, tudes about Wall Street. WITH PR, CREATES CHANGE SOCIAL MEDIA & FSI A recent education equality case shows ORGANIZATIONS 41 how impact litigation, coupled with a Why the financial service industry good communications plan, can be an has been slower to adopt social 16 effective driver of reform. media as part of their marketing strategy. PROFILES OF PROFESSIONAL WHAT JOURNALISTS SERVICES FIRMS WANT FROM I.R. PROS 42 A great financial storyteller RANKINGS OF PROFESSIONAL requires understanding the voice of18 today’s EDITORIAL CALENDAR 2014 market. 49 SERVICES FIRMS January: Crisis & Buyer’s Guide PR GAINS BOLSTER Q2 WASHINGTON REPORT February: Environmental & P.A. EARNINGS AT CONGLOMS March: Food & Beverage PR gains by Omnicom and Interpublic firms underscored solid20 second COLUMNS April: Broadcast & Social Media quarter 2014 gains. May: PR Firm Rankings GIL SCHWARTZ DEFENDS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT June: Global & Multicultural Fraser Seitel DOUBLE IDENTITY 50 July: Travel & Tourism The CBS executive said the use of FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT August: Financial/I.R. pen names is an honorable practice.22 52 Richard Goldstein September: Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle PR IN A POST-FINANCIAL OPINION CRISIS ENVIRONMENT 54 Jack O’Dwyer October: Healthcare & Medical Though it was six years ago, the PEOPLE IN PR November: High-Tech “Great Recession” still offers a primer24 on how to handle a future financial crisis. 55 December: Entertainment & Sports

ADVERTISERS Abernathy MacGregor...... 3 Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher...... 19 Omega World Travel...... 53 Bliss Integrated Communication...... 9 Kekst and Company...... 27 Peppercomm...... 23 Bob Thomas Productions...... 41 Log-On...... 51 Ripp Media...... 39 Brunswick...... 15 Makovsky...... INSIDE COVER Sard Verbinnen & Co...... 21 Finn Partners...... 47 MBS Value Partners...... 13 Sitrick and Company...... 29 Gregory FCA...... 5 Nasdaq OMX...... 7 Sloane & Company...... 33 ICR ...... 17 National Investor Relations Institute...... 25 Strauss Media Strategies...... 8 Intermarket Communications...... 11 Nicolazzo & Associates...... 26 Water and Wall Group…...... BACK COVER O’Dwyer’s is published monthly for $60.00 a year ($7.00 for a single issue) by the J.R. O’Dwyer Co., Inc., 271 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. (212) 679-2471; fax: (212) 683-2750. Periodical postage paid at New York, N.Y., and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to O’Dwyer’s, 271 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. O’Dwyer’s PR Report ISSN: 1931-8316. Published monthly. Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:46 PM Page 5

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O’Dwyer’s is published monthly for $60.00 a year ($7.00 for a single issue) by the J.R. O’Dwyer Co., Inc., 271 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. (212) 679-2471; fax: (212) 683-2750. Periodical postage paid at New York, N.Y., and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to O’Dwyer’s, 271 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. O’Dwyer’s PR Report ISSN: 1931-8316. Published monthly. Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:46 PM Page 6

EDITORIAL Financial world is awash in bubbles

ubble here, bubble there, bubbles everywhere. As the Dow Jones Industrial Average EDITOR-IN-CHIEF smashed the 18,000 mark and marches toward 20,000, it’s useful to understand the Jack O’Dwyer [email protected] Basset world is awash in a sea of financial bubbles. The New York Times reported July 7 on the rise of the “everything bubble.” Neil Irwin ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER wrote “around the world, every asset class is expensive by historical standard.” You name it, John O’Dwyer it’s pricey. That goes from Iowa farmland to Manhattan office towers to junk bonds to New [email protected] York Stock Exchange-listed Blue Chips. Spain, a financial basket case two years ago when it was rocked by a financial crisis, now has investors snapping up government bonds that are ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER offering the lowest rate since 1789. Kevin McCauley Why the global bubble? More money is pouring into savings than businesses believe they [email protected] can use to make productive investments, according to Irwin. The world’s central banks, meanwhile, have kept a lid on interest rates and creating money from thin air to buy growth EDITOR in the wake of the financial meltdown. Jon Gingerich And what about that meltdown of the very recent past that triggered bailouts of the biggest [email protected] banks in the world? What global bailout. Happy days are here again. Makovsky released a poll in June that gauged the current reputation of the financial services sector. The top SENIOR EDITOR Greg Hazley response at 25% was “better than pre-financial crisis.” “Back to normal” (17%) ranked as the [email protected] second biggest response. Seventeen percent warned of “more big changes, regulations and shakeout to come” which was followed by “not out of the woods,” at 15%. CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Nearly eight-in-ten (78%) of Makovsky’s respondents credit the Dodd-Frank Act for Fraser Seitel restoring trust in Wall Street. Tell that to Republicans who view Dodd-Frank regulations as Richard Goldstein nothing more than expensive overreach. Scott Tangney, Executive VP at the New York City PR firm, said the 2014 Makovsky Wall Street Reputation Study shows “how far the financial Chandler Klang Smith services brands have advanced since the financial crisis.” That obviously is true. But the Editorial Assistant & Research 20,000 Dow hype is reminiscent of the frothy days of the dotcom bust. The froth sure was fun while it lasted, but the return to reality was painful to millions of Americans and many ADVERTISING SALES PR firms. Sharlene Spingler Former Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben Bernanke has talked about the global sav- Associate Publisher & Editor ings glut. Companies are saving more, not by choice, but rather because they have crummy [email protected] spending options. Capital expenditures are slashed in the leading industrial nations of the John O’Dwyer world, while the much-touted BRIC countries are losing their own investment allure. Advertising Sales Manager Publicis Groupe’s globe-trotting Chairman Maurice Levy released financials showing a [email protected] 4.7 drop in revenues from the highly-hyped BRICs and MISST (Mexico, Indonesia, Singapore, South Africa and Turkey) bunch. Similarly, WPP CEO Martin Sorrell reported a O’Dwyer’s is published monthly for $60.00 slowdown in the Greater China region. Bernake frets that fewer opportunities will result in a a year ($7.00 for a single issue) by the surge in investments in riskier ventures, which sounds a lot like what led the world’s banks J.R. O’Dwyer Co., Inc., into trouble the last time around. 271 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. My former boss, Barney Gallagher, who used to talk about the collapse of the so-called (212) 679-2471 “Nifty Fifty” stocks of the 1960s, always called Wall Street “the gambling casino.” The Nifty Fax (212) 683-2750. Fifty powered the bull run of the 1960s and 1970s and collapsed in 1982. Gallagher was big on U.S. Treasury Bonds. © Copyright 2014 J.R. O’Dwyer Co., Inc. Savvy financial writers, like John Crudele of the New York Post, believe Wall Street is rigged. He notes that executives slice overhead (e.g., people) and squeeze suppliers to gener- OTHER PUBLICATIONS & ate earnings to pump up their stock, where they are heavily invested. That well is now pret- SERVICES: ty much dry. Second quarter earnings are projected to be up 6.2%, less than the projected dou- www.odwyerpr.com 4 breaking news, ble-growth performance. Revenues inched ahead only 3.5%, which is a warning sign of trou- commentary, useful databases and more. ble. Aggressive stock buyback programs, such as the one launched by Rupert Murdoch’s 21st Century Fox, which is in the midst of an $80 billion acquisition offer for Time Warner, fur- Jack O’Dwyer’s Newsletter 4 An eight- ther prop up stock prices. page weekly with general PR news, media The financial world abounds with financial touts, blowing plenty of hot air. The truth is appointments and placement opportunities. nobody knows where the Dow Jones Industrial Average is heading. There is a rash of bullish articles that attempt to justify the march upward and onward. The overriding theme of each O’Dwyer’s Directory of PR Firms 4 has is “this time it’s different.” listings of more than 1,400 PR firms throughout Good luck to all investors, but remember the sage advice of financier Bernard Baruch. the U.S. and abroad. When asked how he accumulated his vast wealth, Baruch said “by selling too soon.” O’Dwyer’s PR Buyer’s Guide 4 Products More recent all-time guidance comes from the legendary investor and former Bear Stearns and services for the PR industry in 50 cate- boss Ace Greenberg. There were thousands of words written in the financial press in the after- gories. math of the Black Monday carnage of 1987, when the Dow fell 508 points to 1738, a 22.6% single-day plunge. This writer remembers only the words of Greenberg, who said, “Markets jobs.odwyerpr.com 4 O’Dwyer’s online go up. Markets go down.” Greenberg died July 25. He was 86. R.I.P. Ace.£ job center has help wanted ads and hosts — Kevin McCauley resume postings.

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MEDIA REPORT Facebook revenues surge on mobile ad gains Facebook’s revenues grew by an astounding 61% during the second quarter of 2014. Executives cited historic gains in mobile advertising as a primary reason for the social media revenues for the company. In a July earn- giant’s unprecedented growth. ings report, the company said daily By Jon Gingerich mobile use has grown by almost 40% since last year, with about 60 million valuation, where stocks left the trading more mobile users actively using the site econd-quarter revenues for gate at $45 a share and fell sharply until than during the first quarter. Facebook Facebook were $2.9 billion, sur- they reached $27 by the end of the third users who access the site exclusively Spassing analyst expectations and week. That event severely disappointed through mobile devices now account for more than doubling its $1.8 billion rev- analysts and resulted in more than 40 391 million; users who still access enues reported for the same quarter last lawsuits. Facebook only through desktop devices now total only 240 million. year. Ad revenues accounted for $2.68 bil- News of the recent earnings might also Google revenues up, ad industry gains lion of this, a 67% increase from the year quell rumors that users aren’t flocking to prior. Executives said Facebook now the social media site as much as they had Facebook’s biggest advertising rival, boasts 1.5 million active advertisers, up in years prior. Facebook, which celebrated Google, also revealed impressive second- 50% from 2013’s second quarter. The its 10th anniversary this year, now boasts quarter gains, with reported revenues social site reported a profit of more than 1.32 billion active monthly members, totaling nearly $16 billion, up 22% from $790 million. according to the company, a 40 million a year prior. Like Facebook’s July earn- The news has buoyed Facebook’s increase from the first quarter of 2014. ings, Google’s growth also surpassed stocks to all-time highs, with shares trad- Mobile leads the way industry expectations, as investors during ing at $74 after news broke on July 23 of Driving Facebook’s impressive finan- 2014’s first quarter had expressed dismay the impressive earnings report. It’s a far cial growth, according to experts, has over that company’s drop in “cost per cry from the social media giant’s notori- been a dramatic uptick in the company’s click” advertising pricing. Unfortunately ous 2012 initial public offering, an event fleet of mobile advertisers. Mobile adver- that trend has continued, as average marred by technical problems at the tising on Facebook grew 40% in the last prices for per-click ads that appear in NASDAQ exchange and an overzealous year, and now represents 62% of total ad search results and alongside web content has now dropped an average of 6% from the second quarter a year ago. The mixed news arrived on the heels of a June 5 eMarketer report, which claimed that total mobile advertising would account for $17.73 billion by the end of this year. The report also estimated that ad spending on mobile search would account for $9 billion, more than half of those mobile ad spends. The study esti- mated that, by 2018, mobile search ads would account for a whopping 86% of all digital search advertising in the U.S. As digital advertising revenues contin- ue to account for an increasingly larger portion of total U.S. advertising — a 16% increase to nearly $43 billion in 2013 — a separate July eMarketer report showed that total ad spending in the U.S. would reach its highest mark in a decade, accounting for $180 billion, a growth not seen since 2004. The primary culprit, according to eMarketer, is mobile. According to the July eMarketer report, advertisers in the U.S. will spend $8 bil- lion more on advertising through tablets and smartphones than they did in 2013 — an increase of 83%. Meanwhile, according to a report by The Newspaper Association of America, print ad revenues for U.S. newspapers continued to fall, accounting for a decline of 8.6% in 2013. £

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Facebook revenues surge on mobile ad gains Tobacco giants confirm merger, get PR support Reynolds American and Lorillard, the second and third-largest tobacco companies, on July 15 confirmed they are planning a Ronald Milstein, an Executive VP, heads legal and external affairs at Lorillard. merger. The deal, which could close in 2015, is valued at more Maura Payne, VP of Communications than $27 billion. and David Howard, Senior Director of By Greg Hazley Communications, speak for Reynolds, purveyor of Camel and Kool cigarettes, while Lorillard Chairman/President/CEO and Kodiak smokeless tobacco. he two tobacco companies is slated to join the Reynolds board. The UK’s Imperial had confirmed July announced a $68.88-per-share com- Reynolds and Lorillard produced com- 11 in a “response to recent speculation” Tbination on July 15 to create an $11 bined revenues of $13 billion last year. that it was in discussions with Reynolds billion-per-year seller of brands like The merger would comprise 34% of the and Lorillard about acquiring certain Newport, Camel and Natural American U.S. cigarette market, effectively creating assets and brands, the likely result if Spirit. the number-two U.S. tobacco company Lorillard and Reynolds combined and As part of the deal, UK-based Imperial behind Altria, the former Philip Morris looked to sell brands. Tobacco Group, in a nod to regulators, is spun out of Kraft, which is home to brands Joele Frank, Brunswick support merger stepping in to buy for $7.1 billion the like Virginia Slims and Marlboro. Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Kool, Salem, Winston, Maverick and blue Together, those two companies would Katcher and Brunswick Group provided Cigs brands, tripling that company’s U.S. account for 90% of the key U.S. cigarette PR support in the Reynolds American- market share. It will also buy a North market. Lorillard deal. Joele Frank Partners Carolina Lorillard factory. The deals are expected to close during Meagan Repko and Andrea Rose handled In a fourth piece of the transaction, the first half of 2015. Both companies communications regarding the transaction Reynolds’ top shareholder British stressed that no deal is assured. for Lorillard. American Tobacco will spend $4.7 billion Lorillard IR Director Bob Bannon is David Howard, Senior Director of to maintain a 42% ownership stake. point of contact for the Greensboro, N.C.- Communications for Reynolds, said Reynolds President and CEO Susan based producer of Kent cigarettes and blu Brunswick Group worked with the compa- Cameron will retain that role post-merger e-cigarettes, among others. Attorney ny on the project. £

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FEATURE Financial communications and your digital footprint The Internet has transformed how we process information. As a result, everyone has a digital footprint — a trail of data that tells a story about who you are, what you stand for, and what you’re doing. Whether you’re active online or not, this trail is growing longer, as people collect and disseminate information about you and your firm. This, of course, can cause problems if your digital footprint does not truly reflect who you are. By Thomas Walek ital information completely disappear. of recruiters use LinkedIn to discover tal- hree-quarters of HR executives now However, a dedicated media relations plan ent, demonstrating the growing importance research potential employees online, and thoughtful communications strategy of this social platform. Every employee at Twhile 70% report having found executed by seasoned professionals with your firm should have a LinkedIn page, something that’s caused them to reject a deep financial services knowledge can help complete with name, title, company and candidate, according to studies by Harris transform a negative digital footprint into a previous career information. Interactive and Cross-Tab Marketing. The positive one. These profiles will relationship between an investor and wealth Optimizing your digital footprint almost always come manager, or a shareholder and a public The best financial organizations under- up on the first page of company, is no different. stand the importance of risk management Google search results Fortunately, there are solutions for these and utilize a rigorous process for protecting whenever someone challenges. Increasingly, financial commu- client assets. Yet, when it comes to manag- searches your firm. nications practitioners are able to use a ing their digital footprints, firms tend to just The same rule of combination of earned, owned and paid let the drum beat — that is, do nothing. thumb applies to media to optimize a firm’s or executive’s Firms unfamiliar with the digital sphere, other social media digital footprint and improve its reputation. and restricted by unnecessarily burdensome channels such as Thomas Walek Working within strict compliance and legal corporate policies and compliance process- Twitter, Facebook boundaries, these experts are managing es, often shy away from monitoring and and YouTube. The what that footprint contains and impacting managing social media, traditional media more information you add, the more bene- how that profile can help drive business. and other elements that constitute a digital ficial your digital footprint. Don’t let oth- Imagine that you are an institutional footprint. This is where a firm’s communi- ers control your reputation. Instead, take investor with money to spend, and you have cations expert steps in. control of it. Also, be sure to verify that the a list of five fund management firms that Seize control of corporate digital foot- information is consistent across all plat- match your needs. How do you select one? prints and build a positive, powerful and forms to avoid confusion. Recommendations from industry peers and engaging online presence. Before begin- Be a publisher and a spokesperson. consultants, while still valuable, are not ning this process, Peppercomm encourages News stories, popular blogs and press enough. Given the information circulating them to create a personal brand mantra. releases rank highly in search results. in today’s digital age, the first thing you will Forbes defines this as a quick, simple, Therefore, create your own content on probably do is Google each firm and its memorable statement describing who you topics relevant to your strategy, share it executives. If you don’t like what you find are and what you offer. Once you have with peers and discuss these topics with about any one, you will immediately cross developed a personal mantra, you can begin the media on a regular basis. It’s impor- them off the list. developing your digital footprint. Here’s tant to remember that journalists use This happens frequently in the finance how: Google, too, when vetting potential industry. To cite one recent example, the top Open up your website. According to an sources. If you’ve never written a blog executive of a large asset management firm internal WalekPeppercomm study, 96% of post or a press release or done an inter- was embroiled in a messy personal lawsuit the top 100 global hedge funds have web- view, then journalists may conclude that that received extensive media coverage. sites, but 54% of these firms have websites you’re not worth their time. On the other Not surprisingly, any search engine query that are either closed to non-investors or hand, if you’ve shown that you can artic- for the firm or the executive returned nega- are comprised of simple landing pages. ulate your ideas in writing, or you’ve done tive hits about the lawsuit, effectively halt- This is unacceptable. Understandably, the multiple interviews, journalists are more ing momentum from investor meetings. first place any prospective investor or jour- likely to go out of their way to accommo- The firm desperately needed to shift nalist goes is your firm’s website, so it is in date you and give you more control over attention to all of the great things it was your best interest to make information the final piece. doing for investors, from generating consis- accessible. If you don’t, investors and Financial communications executives tently high returns to sharing market media may assume that you are trying to are seeing digital footprints for their insights. Over the ensuing weeks, that’s hide something. It is always best to be clients, executives and companies as a pri- exactly what the firm’s communications transparent. Redesign your website to bet- mary measure of their effectiveness. team did. They secured multiple, top-tier ter engage and inform your key audiences, These tactics are key tools in building and print and broadcast interviews featuring the and personalize the site with team biogra- managing digital footprints to help drive firm’s managers talking about the market phies. business growth. and related topics. Before long, an investor Complete your social media profiles. Thomas Walek is President of researching the firm had to navigate 2-3 One of the easiest ways to improve your WalekPeppercomm, a specialist team pages of Google results before finding a Google results is to complete your within Peppercomm with deep expertise in lawsuit reference. No expert can make dig- LinkedIn profile. According to Time, 93% financial services and capital markets. £

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FEATURE Finding the value in value exchange “You get what you give” is quickly becoming the de facto motto for public relations these days, especially in the financial services field. In our digital age, everyone is trying to do more with less. It follows, then, that the more you and your client can do for important influencers — media outlets, analysts, third-party organizations, bloggers, communities — the more they’ll be willing to do for you. This is called a value exchange, and it’s increasingly key in generating high-impact public relations results for your clients. By Dan Mahoney

you know the influencers in your indus- Value exchange in action value exchange enables both try well, it should be easy to determine So what does a value exchange look you and your client to build those who are not only in need of what like in real life? Take Continuity Control Along-term relationships with your client is able to offer but are also — a provider of com- industry influencers that often lead to able to provide the most benefit for your pliance management larger opportunities down the road. It client. systems for commu- also allows your clients to gain the kind It’s important to think long term here, nity banks and credit of exposure and third-party associations too. While getting a small blurb in the unions—for example. that boost not only their brands but also Wall Street Journal once may have The company regu- their reputations as thought leaders and seemed like a win, your client might larly tracked the experts. That’s invaluable in any indus- ultimately reach its target audience more quarterly growth of try, but it’s especially so in a trust- effectively by partnering with an influ- banking regulations dependent field like financial services. ential niche blogger on a regular basis. and the staffing and How it works Dan Mahoney Keep in mind that the initial value financial impacts it The first step in the value exchange exchange may be just a door opener to a had on the average approach involves figuring out what more robust, opportunity-filled partner- small bank, but it wasn’t doing much your client can bring to the table. A ship. with it. robust content audit can help you identi- No matter the partner that’s ultimately We worked with their team to estab- fy any content resources your client may chosen, the next—and possibly most lish a branded Banking Compliance already have on hand that can be better important step—in value exchange is to Index that’s released quarterly both to leveraged. follow through. A value exchange prod- the media and — via webinar — to Next, it’s time to determine the kinds uct often takes longer to produce and banking industry professionals. The data of content that can be extracted from or requires more client and agency involve- and research that Continuity Control is created by your client. Is the company ment than the development of a generic able to offer results in consistent trade home to any industry experts? Their press release, so it’s important to plan media coverage and often leads to larger knowledge can be funneled into blogs or ahead. If your client has promised to features. Additionally, Continuity columns for a magazine or website. deliver a monthly column, make sure the Control is able to promote the data and Does the company perform any research magazine editor has your client’s sub- its coverage on its own blog and through — or does it have the funds to start? mission on time, every month. If the its social media channels and e-newslet- Your client could package the data it’s company’s president is providing on-air ters, reaching an even wider audience. gathering into a headline-generating commentary for a news station, he Most importantly, though, the index quarterly index or use it to create an should dress appropriately and know has helped establish the company as a infographic for media use. how to speak on camera. It should go thought leader in the banking compli- It’s highly unlikely that any client will without saying, but the value exchange ance sector. Its executives are regularly have nothing to offer, especially if you is rendered moot if what your client pro- contacted by reporters and editors in think in broad terms. If your client can’t vides ends up being valueless. search of knowledgeable sources, and provide anything of value to consumer- Finally, you and your client must the well-attended webinars around each facing media, what about the B2B leverage every value exchange opportu- index’s release generate continuous space? Or there’s collaborative thought nity to its fullest. Be sure to promote industry buzz. leadership — can you find a related ana- contributed blogs on social media— The content value exchange is the lyst, nonprofit or industry organization even through sponsored posts, if possi- heartbeat of an integrated marketing and with an initiative your client could part- ble. Find out whether you can use video communications plan today, particularly ner on or sponsor? clips or magazine articles in company in the financial services sector. The key The next step involves choosing the marketing materials. Ask editors is to create, package, distribute and pro- appropriate package for the content — whether the client’s article can be fea- mote compelling content for which influ- whether blog, infographic, byline or tured in a publication’s e-newsletter or encers and customers will exchange their something else — and identifying the promoted on the publication’s social information, engagement, championship best channels for distribution. Which media networks. Be sure to measure the or purchases. partners should you approach with your results of all these efforts so your client Dan Mahoney is Senior Vice President value proposition? This is where your understands the full impact of your of Financial Services at Communications agency’s expertise comes into play. If work. Strategy Group. £

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FEATURE Trust: the missing link in Wall Street’s recovery Six years ago, most banks and financial advisors were living easy. Then came the “Great Recession,” and the industry hasn’t been the same since. It’s no exaggeration to say that nearly all the major challenges facing leaders in financial services today stem from a series of seminal events in 2008. Yet, most of these leaders have not paying enough attention to perhaps the most fundamental change: the rise in negative public attitudes about Wall Street. By Scott Tangney

customer’s willingness to do business with the executives feel investigations, lawsuits a company is greatly affected by that com- and fines in the industry have cast a dark f you did a Wordle analysis of recent pany’s reputation. In our 2014 survey, exec- shadow on their company, an almost equal studies and speeches by financial servic- utives admitted that negative public percep- number believe these regulations will help Ies pundits over the past six months, tions of their industry are taking a big toll restore trust faster. Other findings show you’d find outsized words and phrases such on the bottom line. Executives reported industry leaders share as “re-regulation,” “de-risking,” “transfor- their companies experienced an average investor concerns mative technology” and “consolidation.” business loss of 27% over the past two about risks from high Absent from the conversation is the impact years, equaling billions of dollars, due to frequency trading and of public distrust. “Reputation” was never incessant reputational and customer servic- cyber data breaches, mentioned in the extensive annual industry es issues. and are equally inter- reviews conducted at the beginning of the Nearly half the executives told us that the ested in curbing them. year by big consulting firms like Deloitte scars from the financial crisis also made Despite a host of and Oliver Wyman. their brands weaker, allowing their closest new regulations, the On one level, that’s surprising. For many competitors to gain an advantage. We have perceived risk in the years now, financial services and banking already seen power shifts within the indus- financial industry today Scott Tangney have been at the bottom of the list of indus- try, especially in the banking and wealth also wreaks havoc on tries that the public respects. That’s espe- management sectors, and it will likely con- the reputation rebuild. More than three- cially true for the younger, rising genera- tinue as executives said it could take up to quarters of companies told us that risk with- tions who are attracted to new, technologi- five more years until their reputations are in the industry is higher than or the same as cally-driven investment and banking mod- restored to pre-crisis levels. 2007 when the crisis was in a pre-boil state. els that could leave traditional banks and It is also clear that while public image is Executives indicate this has frozen the brokers in the dust. A survey conducted by built by the things that we do or don’t do, industry’s reputation, characterizing the our firm in May 2014 found communica- that once damaged, the path to reputation current situation with tentative statements, tions and marketing executives anxious and recovery is rarely as straightforward as sim- including “big changes, regulations and uncertain about the reputational health of ply redoing the right thing. Most executives shakeout to come,” “not out of the woods,” Wall Street. In fact, things have gotten to told us that the biggest headwind to rebuild- “another crisis in the wings,” and “industry the point where it seems even brokers them- ing public confidence in their individual changing too much.” selves mistrust their own industry. A 2013 firms was the overall sour attitude toward In the Chaparral, if one house catches fire Paladin study based on telephone inter- the financial services industry as a whole. it’s usually the beginning of a wildfire — views with 100 five-star rated financial If we acknowledge that reputation dam- obviously a big concern for each and every advisors found that 83% of them believe age is slowing the industry’s recovery, what neighbor. This is a good analogy for finan- that their peers rely on essentially shady should be done? cial services industry today. In this environ- sales tactics to win investor assets! First, leaders must come to recognize ment, there’s no such thing as an isolated There are two big reasons why, despite reputation as a genuine business asset. crisis. The entire industry is affected by the all this, reputation gets short shrift in the Goldman Sachs, probably one of the most action of a single firm. Companies must corner suite. The first is that business lead- vilified firms coming out of the crisis, has see themselves as part of an interconnected ers, schooled in financial analysis, can’t turned over a new leaf and been leading the ecosystem and begin to act accordingly. definitively value reputation on the balance way here, explicitly adding “reputational That means being open to new forms of sheet. It’s a bias especially prevalent in risk” to the factors it believes can either collaboration and information sharing, not financial services. Second, many leaders drive or impede growth. In its May 2013 just with competitors but also with regula- believe that reputation is a symptom, not Business Standards Committee Impact tors and the media. the disease. In other words, it’s the conse- Report, Goldman lists people, capital and The path to reputation recovery in finan- quence of bad things that happen out there, reputation as its most important assets, stat- cial services is riddled with tough issues to like out-of-control government regulation, ing “if any one of these is diminished, the overcome. The first steps are recognizing billion dollar trading losses or humongous last is the most difficult to restore.” the value of a positive reputation to the bot- lawsuits and settlements. Fix these issues, Second, the industry needs to work hard tom line, accepting that the industry still has so the argument goes, and everyone will to correct the perception gap between how a long way to go to achieve it and commit- start believing again. companies view themselves and how they ting the energy and resources to reach that While both of these points have some are viewed by the public. Consider, for goal. merit, they are ultimately flawed. Not being example, the pervasive notion that the Scott Tangney is Executive Vice able to price something doesn’t make it less industry opposes Dodd-Frank regulations. President, Head of Financial and impactful. We know, instinctively, that a While our survey confirmed that 80% of Professional Services at Makovsky. £

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FEATURE Social media and FSI organizations Social media has become widely used by both individuals and businesses, particularly in the B to C space. However, compa- Determine Your Goals. Don’t just sign nies in the financial service industry have been slower to adopt up for social media because it’s the latest social media as part of their marketing strategy. trend. Start by determining your goals so By Matt Caiola that you will be better prepared to take the appropriate action steps to reach them. both customers and other industry thought Whether you want to reason for this, in part, may be that leaders, making it crucial for the financial establish an online the need for businesses to incorpo- industry to integrate a social media plan presence, provide bet- Arate a social media strategy into into their customer service and investor ter customer service, their marketing plan strategies arose around relations communications strategies. expand your customer Social media among FSI organizations the time that the financial industry was dig- base or keep your cur- ging itself out of the financial crisis, a frag- The depth and comfort with which finan- rent customers coming ile time for FSI organizations. The industry cial organizations operate online varies back for more, you was hesitant to dive into a new medium of considerably, with some companies imple- need to know where communication where the landscape was menting an in-depth social strategy and oth- you are headed in changing by the minute and the risks had ers utilizing the platforms in a more top-line order to know how to Matt Caiola not been assessed. Aside from not wanting fashion. Leading the pack, American get there. to add fuel to the fire of its own reputation Express utilizes an impressive three Twitter Implement Security Measures. Just management issues, in entering the social accounts and five Facebook pages, more because the regulations have been loosened media playing field, the industry needed to social media channels than any other firm. somewhat does not mean that they do not overcome many confidentiality, compli- Top brands that have embraced the medi- still exist. Furthermore, your clients and ance and legal hurdles not faced by individ- um are finding that they have no shortage of colleagues are counting on you to keep all uals, celebrities, brands and other business- people to market to online. For example, of their information confidential. Before es so as to not find themselves in a social combine the corporate American Express you post a single update, make sure that you media mess. As a result, financial institu- card Facebook page with its Small Business have all the necessary security measures in tions needed to critically assess the appro- Saturday page and you tally an impressive place. Implement a process for content priateness and necessity of maintaining a 2.4 million likes. Charles Schwab, the only approval, both in scheduled posts and reac- presence on social media channels, which brokerage service with a dedicated cus- tive commentary, and ensure that it is fol- were once viewed primarily as informal tomer service Twitter account, has over lowed 100% of the time. networks for friends, rather than powerful 46,000 Twitter followers and 18,000 Equip and Train Your Staff. Whether networks for business. Facebook fans. American Express has you will hire one social media manager or While it may have been prudent for the 400,000 Twitter followers. Vanguard has you will allow multiple employees to create FSI industry to shy away from social media close to 60,000 Twitter users that can follow and maintain their own business accounts, in its infancy, when they themselves were the company for tips on investing and it is imperative that everyone who does experiencing a time of crisis, the time has retirement, and ETF has about 43,000 social media work for your company under- now come for financial companies to not Twitter followers who receive educational stands the laws and knows the best prac- only get their feet wet, but to dive into the snippets from the account as well. tices. Host a training workshop and give Maintaining an effective presence pool — while remaining ever-vigilant of them the tools and resources they need to the rules and regulations placed upon them. While more and more FSI organizations help your company succeed. In today’s workplace, social media plat- are beginning to use social media to market Attract New Customers. Gathering the forms are viewed as essential components their company and connect with clients, first few likes and comments from your of all organizations’ (including the FSI many still have a ways to go in terms of existing customers shouldn’t be too diffi- industry) marketing strategy. Social media maximizing exposure and profits. cult, but you won’t want to stop there. networks are no longer a tool to solely con- While the landscape is constantly chang- Engage with your current followers and nect with friends; they have become a ing and keeping up with the norms of social then find new ones by creating quality con- method used to connect with companies, media is a must for both businesses and the tent, implementing proven social media keep up with news and trends, and research agencies that advise them, we’ve found that strategies and using precise targeting for businesses: their products, and their servic- our corporate and financial clients benefit your marketing efforts. es. by integrating a social media strategy into Evaluate Your Strategy. Once you have Many financial companies have tested their overall brand communications. It begun to implement your social media strat- the waters by using social media as cus- offers a valuable “peek behind the curtain” egy, don’t just throw a few pieces of content tomer services platforms. Investors are also to these institutions that can bolster their out there and then forget about them. Your increasingly turning to social media to gath- reputations with the credibility boost that social media manager should be constantly er information, voice their opinions, con- comes with transparence. Social media, an monitoring your analytics to track and nect with businesses and spread informa- inherently transparent method of communi- measure your growth and progress to tion about various institutions. Financial cation, is a great way to reach consumers ensure that your company is using social institutions that do not adopt social media and investors in real-time and in real-speak. media to its full potential. as part of their marketing strategy are sure We advise clients to implement a strategy, Matt Caiola is Vice President of to lose out on valuable relationships with with a few caveats: Corporate and Technology at 5W. £

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FEATURE What journalists want from investor relations pros Your business card might say Investor Relations, Public Relations or Corporate Communications. The fact is, you’re a storyteller: every day you’re preparing stories, telling stories or working on your storytelling skills. And in order to possess a strong storytelling voice in the marketplace, you need to work not only with the other storytellers in your organization but those on the outside as well. By Mike Piispanen are offering value, whether it’s education Whether you’re drafting a press release e asked journalists about their or entertainment. Some are going even or uploading images to your newsroom, preferences and pain points for further, embracing the “every company is ask yourself how this piece of content is Wour new guide, “What a media company” adage and packaging going to help a journalist package a story. Journalists Want.” As we discovered, no content across multiple channels just like a The pitches that come across as stale and matter what your business card says, the news organization. On the surface this over-promotional are principles of good storytelling and rela- may look like they are taking news pro- usually the ones that tionship building are the same. duction and distribution into their own focus on your inter- Engaging journalists on social media hands — and they are — but it’s comple- ests and don’t fit into If you’re using social media solely as mentary to earned media. In fact, the avail- the context of what’s another distribution channel for your cor- ability of well-produced articles and video important to reporters porate announcements, you’re missing an on your corporate site makes a reporter’s and their audience. opportunity. Yes, reporters are scouring job easier and provides a richer experience With the level of these platforms for story ideas, but you for someone interested in learning (and transparency social shouldn’t be thinking about how you can writing) about your organization. Just media affords, it’s Mike Piispanen get eyeballs on your press release. First, don’t forget the basics. High-resolution easier than ever to ask how you can help. Twitter, in particu- images and contact details for an actual find that match. lar, offers amazing transparency into what person — rather than a general email alias Improving IR storytelling reporters cover and their interests. — are still missing on many websites, says Communicating your financial per- Mark Jones, Global Communities Amanda Pierce, CEO of Burson- formance is more than a requirement; it Editor at Reuters News, shared an anec- Marsteller UK. “Why not make publicly is an opportunity to engage and inspire. dote in our guide about an unfortunate red available information easy to access? The numbers tell a story of your compa- wine spill while his wife was out of town. Access and transparency is a good thing.” ny’s financial performance, but there are He took to Twitter for advice and received It’s better to give than receive compelling stories behind the results — a reply from a PR pro with a solution. A recurring theme that comes up in our your leadership’s vision, your cus- “A few days later, the same person rang conversations with journalists is, “Be tomer’s successes, the challenges your me up and came on to me with an exclu- human.” When we think about how we employees overcome and the milestones sive of some social media research,” Jones build strong relationships in our personal they reach. Your IR website is no longer says. “And I just thought it was a fantastic and professional lives, key themes include just a destination for disclosure, it’s an way of public relations people behaving. sharing common interests, collaboration ongoing opportunity for engagement. Help journalists in trouble out. Find out and selflessness. Firing a promotional It’s a content platform just like your cor- what he’s interested in, and then serve up a pitch out to a target list of media contacts porate newsroom that feeds the informa- little exclusive.” strays from these fundamentals. Asking tion needs and curiosity of journalists as Follow journalists, find common ground “Are you interested in doing a story on much as investors. Promote your and be a resource even when it may not us?” before asking “How can I help with upcoming earnings webcast with a series directly involve your company. This is the stories you’re interested in writing?” of video client testimonials. Humanize how you build a relationship, credibility isn’t being a valuable partner. To para- your management team with executive and emotional equity. This is how you phrase Gary Vaynerchuk, what can you interviews ahead of your Investor Day. become a go-to source who can more eas- give (and give and give again) before ask- How are you going to bring forward the ily get their attention when you need it. It’s ing someone to do something for you? human stories across your organization? not about trading favors — it’s about help- The relationship between journalist and Investor relations and public relations ing each other on a one-to-one level and PR pro or IRO is reciprocal and building are not converging — they already have: forming a partnership. The technology rapport is important, but content and shared audiences, integrated messages, continues to change but the human ele- access remain critical to each party being and increasingly, common communica- ment remains a constant. successful. The more you can do to sup- tion strategies. If you’re an IRO with Journalism’s impact on earned media port their research and create high quality questions on content strategy or a PR The evolution of IR and PR websites content they can use to pitch an idea to edi- pro interested in weaving your compa- from a resource for contacts and news into tors and complete the story, the more like- ny’s financial narrative into your a multimedia destination is positive both ly it is that you will receive coverage. It engagements, why not converge over for brands and journalists. First, most should not be overlooked that supplying lunch with your counterpart to share a companies are publishing content every multimedia assets (e.g., images, video story or two? And while you’re at it, day — even if it’s a handful of tweets — clips) and access to your spokespeople not invite a journalist. to engage their audiences with greater fre- only makes a reporter’s job easier, it gives Mike Piispanen is Vice President, quency and transparency. The ones who you greater control over those components Global Corporate Solutions-PR, at NAS- are doing it well and building communities of the story. DAQ OMX £

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REPORT PR gains bolster Q2 earnings at conglomerates PR gains led by Omnicom and Interpublic firms underscored the No. 4 marketing conglomerate saw rev- solid second quarter 2014 gains at the major marketing enue climb 5.4% to $1.85 billion, or 4.7% on an organic basis, during the quarter. conglomerates. Omnicom’s failed merger partner, Publicis, Total debt sits at $1.8 billion vs. $901 mil- slumped but MDC Partners took advantage of the scuttled deal lion in cash/marketable securities. in hiring, wins and acquisition talks. WPP revenues inch ahead By Greg Hazley and Kevin McCauley WPP revenues rose 1.2% to $7.5 billion during the first five months of 2014, but France turned in a strong 4.2% growth, CEO Martin Sorrell prefers to point to the mnicom revenues across its PR while the U.K. fell 1.9% and Germany conglom’s 9.8% growth — once currency operations jumped 6.2% in the sec- dipped 1.2%. Southern Europe remained in fluctuations are stripped from the finan- Oond quarter to $357 million as over- the dumps. cials. all revenues at the marketing conglomerate For Publicis, the so-called BRIC nations The Burson-Marsteller, Ogilvy, Cohn & climbed 6.4% to nearly $3.9 billion. were a mix bag: Russia rose 5.9%, but Wolfe, RLM Finsbury, GCI Group and OMC, which owns PR firms like China turned in a less than expected 1.4% Hill+Knowlton Strategies PA/PR unit Ketchum, FleishmanHillard, Porter Novelli growth rate. India and Brazil were in nega- showed a 2.2 percent advance in net sales. and Mercury, said PR was up 4.3% for the tive territories of -14.7% and -0.6%, respec- WPP reported PA/PR growth in all first half on revenues of $682.5 million. Q2 tively. Levy anticipated better growth in regions except western continental Europe PR gains were 4.1% on an organic basis. North America than the +2.8 performance and the Middle East. Omnicom net income rose 12.3% to but clients cancelled or put work on hold. Sorrell said 2014 has started stronger $325.2 million for the quarter. North PR powers Interpublic Q2 gains than last year’s record performance. He American revenues rose 6.6% to $2.2 bil- Interpublic’s Constituency Management warns of potential trouble at home due to lion, while Europe climbed 8.3% to $1.1 Group, which includes PR operations, the possible split of Scotland from the U.K. billion, Asia Pacific saw a 3% rise to $401.5 jumped 10.9% in the second quarter to and uncertainty of continued British mem- million and Latin American inched up 1.7% $355.4 million. Organic growth advanced bership in the European Union. to $112.7 million. 7.9%. MDC Revenues, Profits Surge in Q2 Advertising rose 10.9% to top $1.9 bil- The McCann-led ad agency unit trailed MDC Partners reported revenue for the lion, while its customer relationship man- with a 4.2% gain in revenues to $1.5 billion, second quarter 2014 rose 10.5% to $317.7 agement division (Interbrand, Star and a four percent hike on the organic front. million, including organic growth of 7%, Marketing, Washington Speakers Bureau) CEO Michael Roth singled out IPG’s while net income soared nearly 68% to posted a 3% gain to $1.3 billion. “very strong” PR performance in a confer- $16.5 million. Acquisition expenditures for the first half ence call this morning, noting Weber MDC’s strategic marketing services unit, hit $114.9 million, including Germany- Shandwick, Golin and DeVries, as well as which encompasses PR, saw revenues based ad agency heimat and London’s sports marketing unit Octagon, were key to climb 10.1% to $221 million, while its per- brand and retail strategy firm Haygarth in CMG’s robust Q2 growth. formance marketing services saw an 11.4% the second quarter. Omnicom debt is $4 bil- Weber CEO Andy Polansky told gain to $96.7 million, despite a 1% organic lion against $1.5 billion in cash and invest- O’Dwyer’s IPG’s PR flagship continues on decline for the period. ments. its torrid double-digit gain performance and MDC overall reaped $54 million in net Publicis first-half net sinks 17% he’s bullish for the remainder of the year new business during the quarter, its best Publicis Groupe suffered a 16.9% plunge due to a bulging pipeline. Technology, performance to date, including ADT, in first-half net to $352 million on flat rev- healthcare, corporate and social media are Bellisio Foods, BMW 7 Series, TE enues of $4.5 billion due to cancellation or set for robust gains. Connectivity and Carrera eyewear. postponement of campaigns and lousy eco- Roth said IPG’s “operating results under- CEO Miles Nadal said its MDC’s PR nomic conditions in Europe and emerging score the competitiveness of our agencies, linchpin, Allison+Partners, continued its markets. Organic growth rose 1.8%. and quality of our offerings in key growth “aggressive and profitable expansion” dur- CEO Maurice Levy said the figures “are markets and disciplines.” ing the quarter that included two French not satisfactory by our standards” and “not Overall, the No. 4 marketing conglomer- offices as part of its “international build consistent with what our operations can ate saw revenue climb 5.4% to $1.85 bil- out.” A+P, with 17 global offices, posted achieve.” He’s optimistic the French ad/PR lion, or 4.7% on an organic basis, during the nearly $29 million in revenue (+25%) last combine will rebound during the second- quarter. year. half, adding Publicis is “already on track for IPG showed a 3.4% rise in U.S. revenues Nadal said MDC has been a “very large higher growth, and that should be evident to $997 million, while international surged beneficiary” of the proposed and aborted as of the third quarter.” eight percent to $760 million, powered by merger of Publicis and Omnicom, includ- Though 2014 “will be a difficult year,” the rebounding U.K. sector, which 33% to ing the addition of talent, new business, and Levy said the outlook “does not undermine $120 million. opportunities for M&A deals while the our mid-term prospects.” Continental Europe ticked up 3.8% to marketing giants were trying to consum- The May collapse of the $35 billion $196 million, Asia Pacific rose 1.4% to mate the deal. CFO David Doft said MDC Publicis/Omnicom acquisition was the $221 million and Latin America dipped is working on a “number of promising highlight of the first six months. On the PR 2.9% to $120 million. opportunities” in the M&A realm “and front, Publicis acquired D.C.-based Qorvis Net income climbed to $103.7 million, hopefully we’ll close on one or more of Communications in January. from $86.1 million for Q2 of 2013. Overall, them in the weeks and months to come.”£

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REPORT CBS’ Schwartz defends double identity Gil Schwartz, Senior Executive VP and Chief Communications Officer for CBS, who writes for Fortune and elsewhere as “Stanley Bing,” said his pen name is “an honorable institution.” By Jack O’Dwyer sanship the network has been at pains to avoid since Rather’s downfall.” consigliere to the most powerful man in There was no official help from CBS chwartz uses Bing for his Fortune media, CBS boss Leslie Moonves,” who on the story which quoted numerous column and 14 books but writes in earned $65.4 million in 2013, a package anonymous sources. Moonves, “through SMen’s Health and other media topped only by the $76.9 million that a spokesman (probably Schwartz) under his real name. Oracle’s Larry Ellison took home. It declined comment.” He and his secretary have handled was about five times the pay of the Schwartz writes on own time numerous e-mails recently on the issue of average S&P 500 CEO, noted Schwartz says he writes in the morn- whether his journalistic work disqualifies Bloomberg. ing, late at night and on trains and planes. him to be a member of PR Society of “Frankly,” wrote Kramer, “I never We knew numerous corporate PR exec- America. understood why Moonves kept utives for decades and one of their chores He was a Society member for one year Schwartz around, except for the fact was assisting the CEO in travel. Typical only — 2003 — but did not renew. That that Moonves often needed someone to chores were signing in the CEO at the membership would seem to invalidate the show up in his office with a ‘crisis’ as front desk, making sure an elevator was Society’s claim that it doesn’t allow press an excuse to get rid of some star beg- waiting on the first floor, and having the as members because, as Schwartz points ging for a spot in a new show.” right bottle of scotch, flowers, or whatev- out, his dual identity has been common Corporate staffs thin er in the room. knowledge since New York Times The experience of New York Times They also served as a sounding board reporter Mark Landler revealed it on Jan. columnist Dave Carr is that the few cor- for the CEOs and gave them advice. But 8, 1996. porate PR people left act as barriers to some corporate PR execs said they were Double identity “well publicized” execs and deliver “slop.” never asked for advice. CEOs and other Says Schwartz: “It has been well pub- Most blue chips only offer a question execs would give them items and stories licized since 1996 that Stanley Bing and box to reporters who show up at their to place, topics to investigate, and per- I are the same person. Our opinion of sites. Reporters type in questions and haps bad news about competitors to people who have a problem with that hope for a response. spread. fact has also been well publicized and Schwartz says his staff is available Schwartz tells of “extreme” biz travel need not be reiterated in a demure and 24/7 and is “the doorway to any inquiry Exploring topics Schwartz is covering tasteful venue like this one. Those who or request for executive participation.” for Fortune, we accessed the June 30, remain ignorant of this situation some 2014 column titled, “If it’s Tuesday, this 20 years in and dozens of exposes later must be Brussels.” clearly haven’t been paying attention.” He tells of putting in a full day in the On May 2, 2014, Variety Deputy office in Los Angeles; flying with his Editor Pat Saperstein, using a very large “boss” (probably Moonves) to headline that said, “CBS Publicity Chief Amsterdam, arriving at 1 p.m. (3 a.m. Gil Schwartz Moonlights as Business by L.A. time); having lunch at a time Author Stanley Bing,” also saw the need normally four hours before breakfast; to “out” him. and going to dinners and a trip to an Schwartz defended his dual identity to “enormous complex” outside Brussels Saperstein, saying, “All the superegos where “the boss” gives a speech “which have alter egos. Using a pseudonym is goes very well.” At 5 p.m. local time he an honorable institution.” gets back on the Gulfstream 4 for the What do corporate PR people do? Gil Schwartz. Photo: Sharlene Spingler nearly 12 hour flight back to L.A. Time Exploring this topic has put a focus elapsed was from 72-96 hours (depend- on state of PR in corporations and insti- ing on how the hours are counted). Then tutions. However, this was not the case when he has to fly to New York. USA Today President and Publisher New York magazine on May 14 embarked Several drinks are consumed. “Lots Larry Kramer wrote April 13 that he on an extensive examination of the false of wine. Lots of martinis,” he writes at worked alongside Schwartz for two report about the attack on the U.S. one point. At another, he says they years and “never saw Schwartz do any embassy in Benghazi that was posted by “return to the hotel for drinks, which actual work. He was always at his desk, “60 Minutes” reporter Lara Logan. come in waves.” on the phone or reading a newspaper or Wrote Joe Hagan: “Logan’s flawed The trip, says Schwartz, was an magazine. Every once in a while he had report is seen as the strongest evidence example of “extreme business travel.” a guitar and would practice for a coun- that the most celebrated news program in But he notes he has been “yanked try music performance at a CBS meet- American TV history has lost its moor- around like a celebrity chihuahua from ing.” ings under Fager, [executive producer one corner of the corporation to the Schwartz, notes Kramer, was a “close Jeff Fager] tarnished by the kind of parti- other for years.” £

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FEATURE PR in a post-financial crisis environment Lehman Brothers’ September 2008 bankruptcy set the stage for what would become the “Great Recession,” which would bring CEOs to the halls of government requesting relief and tarnish the reputations of a formerly respectable institution. The organizations tainted by the financial meltdown have suffered historic blows to their reputations — and some have yet to recover — but the event offers a primer on how to handle a future financial crisis. By Faith Yando

need a solid media policy and need to ulations, which guide communications rom a public relations perspective, media train every spokesperson in the activities. This is particularly true for the lessons are many, but reflecting organization. Nothing tarnishes an orga- mutual fund managers who are prohibit- Fback on that time, three main points nization’s reputation more than conflict- ed from selectively communicating stand out: reputation management is an ing public messages, and that includes information to a select group of share- ongoing process; every organization global messages. The spokesperson in holders and need to take into account needs a crisis communications plan; and Sydney needs to be singing from the mutual fund boards. All of this informa- private, internal communications as we same songbook as the spokesperson in tion needs to be factored in your crisis once knew it is dead. We live in an era Frankfurt or New York. communications plan. where all information either already is or Why you need a crisis plan Private communication is dead will become public. Early in my career, I worked for an There is no such thing as internal com- Reputation management is ongoing organization that was highly respectable munication anymore, period. Everyone in Too many organizations fail to focus on and led by a very impressive CEO. One your organization managing their reputations until it’s too day, I received a call from a reporter needs to come to late. They see the communications and who relayed comments that one of our this realization. If public relations field as solely focused on employees had made at a public meet- your CEO issues an garnering press coverage or speaking at ing. Knowing and respecting this per- internal memo to conferences, but this is a very small part son, I immediately jumped to his employees, it will of what a successful public relations pro- defense. This person would never have end up in the press. gram accomplishes. said those things, right? I was so wrong. Plan for this contin- Most importantly, public relations The lesson that I learned and have car- gency. Develop exemplifies the overall strategic direction ried with me throughout my career is overall messaging of the firm — how does it seek to position that despite your best effort, you can’t and communica- Faith Yando itself within the marketplace? Why? How control everything. Crises do occur. The tions plans and then does it differentiate itself from its com- question isn’t whether you will avert all deliver that messag- petitors? What communications risks crisis — it’s whether you’ll be prepared ing through all channels, whether it’s an does it face? What are the key audiences when it happens. internal announcement, press release or it’s trying to reach? If the financial crisis taught us any- town hall presentation for employees. All of these components form the basis thing, it’s that every organization needs Executives should assume that all of a firm-wide strategic communications a detailed, crisis communications plan. comments made may become public at plan. Such a plan sets the overall direc- The plan should detail the chain of com- some point and stick to key messaging. tion for all public relations activities mand (who needs to be notified and Recent experience in business, politics through all channels, whether it’s public when), identify crisis spokespeople and and legal proceedings have illustrated relations, social media, events or speak- lay out contingencies for possible sce- that comments can come back to haunt ing engagements. It should be obvious narios, such as natural disasters, you. In today’s wired world, everyone how any of the specific tactics imple- employee malfeasance, financial dis- seems to be recording video on their cell mented as part of these activities links tress or staff departures. Most important- phones. back to the organization’s overall strate- ly, all employees, including the CEO, The worst blow to an organization’s gic goals. must be aware of and agree to crisis pro- reputation is when it appears to be decep- A well-crafted and executed strategic tocols. How many times in the last few tive, particularly saying one thing in pri- communications plan embeds reputation years has a crisis turned from bad to vate and the complete opposite in public. management into the everyday function worse when a reporter reached a CEO on Ensure that the leaders in your organiza- of the organization. Employees, clients his cell, and he provided an off-the-cuff tion are extremely vigilant and don’t and prospects don’t just become aware of comment? Media policies need to be make this mistake. an organization’s positioning when a cri- respected and followed by all employ- The financial crisis taught us many sis occurs; they live and breathe the ees, including those in the C-Suite. public relations lessons. Most important- firm’s values and direction every day. One of the most important partner- ly, the need to be prepared. Strategic The plan should include detailed infor- ships in a crisis for public relations exec- plans, whether firm-wide or crisis-spe- mation on key messaging, and those mes- utives is the legal department. This is cific, are necessary for success. The sages need to permeate throughout the particularly true in highly regulated world is too complicated to engage exter- organization. Everyone within the organ- industries, such as financial services and nally without a game plan. ization needs to be on the same page. To pharmaceuticals. These industries oper- Faith Yando is Agency Director at ensure everyone is disciplined, firms ate under specific SEC and FINRA reg- Leverage PR. £

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REPORT Study: the most (and least) respected brands Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, despite losing some luster over the healthy foods movement, are the most respected corporate brands for 2014, while Delta Airlines and H&R Block top the list of least respected names, according to a July study by consultancy CoreBrand. By Greg Hazley

ershey, Bayer and Johnson & Last year, the Johnson rounded out the top five, CoreBrand study show- Hwhile Big Lots, Denny’s and Best cased a tie-breaker for Buy filled out the bottom five. the first-place slot of Entering the top 10 for 2014 are most respected brands, Apple, its new business partner IBM, between soda rivals and General Electric. CoreBrand sees Coca-Cola and Pepsi. IBM’s return to the ranking as a sign This year, Coca-Cola that traditionally respected companies inched into the first- are bouncing back from negative views place slot, as Pepsi slid borne out of the financial crisis. into second-place. The CoreBrand gauges brand respect study points out, how- through a continuous index of data on ever, that both brands familiarity and favorability of more actually declined in than 1,000 companies that are publicly favorability compared traded. The annual study, titled "Brand to last year. Respect: The Most and Least Respected At the least-respect- Corporate Brands," is based on surveys ed end of the spectrum of 10,000 executives at companies with — the biggest gap The chart above shows familiarity and favorability of most revenues greater than $50 million. between high familiar- respected brands. Below, the second chart shows the familiarity Executives were asked to rate 500 cor- ity and low favorabili- and favorability of least respected brands. porate brands that have been publicly ty — were Rite Aid, Source: CoreBrand. traded for at least five years. JC Penney, Capitol One, Family Dollar and Sprint Nextel, rounding out the bottom 10. Out of the least respected group, CoreBrand found that Denny’s and Family Dollar Stores have made strides in improving favora- bility by 2.7% and 3.6%, respectively. Delta topped the least-respected list but was rated in a similar vein to indus- try counterparts United and American Airlines, which draw similarly high familiarity and low favorability. “While Delta has the lowest favora- bility of the group, clearly all of the air- lines could benefit from more brand respect,” Coreband noted. The top 10 most respected brands averaged familiarity points of 91.9 in this year’s study, which is down slight- ly from 2013's average of 92.4 for brands in this group. In terms of famil- iarity and favorability among least respected brands, the study points out that a silver lining exists. According to CoreBrand, these brands saw an aver- age increase of 1.6 in familiarity and 2.5 in favorability. The study points out: "Not only does this bode well for individual companies, but this may indicate a recovery for damaged brands across the board, as the economy con- tinues to rebound.” £

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Study: the most (and least) respected brands Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 28

REPORT Professor: Gaza and Ukraine reveal breakdown of law

The deaths of 298 civilians in the downing of Malaysian Flight got pulled from the conflict. CNN said It’s Not What You Say About Yourself That Matters 17, and the ongoing fighting in Gaza show that international Magnay “deeply regrets the language law is ineffective, according to Yale Professor Paul Kahn. used” and said her words were directed only at a group that had been targeting But What Others Say By Jack O’Dwyer the CNN crew. Her tweet was later removed but there Robert Marquand July 18. is no such thing on the web. Comments he aim of international law is to His essay was headlined, “British MPs by the Ukrainians on the downed jet had insulate civilians from military vio- decry rockets from Hamas but say that’s also been “removed” to no avail. Here’s what has been said about Sitrick And Company: Tlence, wrote Kahn in a July 19 little excuse for Israeli behavior.” The Another victim of something said on essay on Al Jazeera. However, he notes, report supplies quotes from a discussion social media (specifically, Facebook) is those with sufficient arms and financing by Conservative and Labor Members of U.K. and Iranian citizen Roya Nobakht, can flout the law and get away with it. Parliament. who has been in an Iranian prison for “The City’s Most Prominent Crisis Management Firm.” “When conflict turns violent, as it has Former Foreign Secretary Jack Straw seven months. The New York Times in the Ukraine, we must hope that we can said none of the MPs have “any truck” Nobakht, 47, was sentenced to prison trust the judgment of politicians, for the with the terrorism of Hamas but that the for comments on Facebook that allegedly law has nothing to say,” he wrote. Israelis have shown “they have no regard criticized former supreme leader the “Now (they) have hired Michael Sitrick, whose Los Angeles public-relations firm is known for going “The Israelis and the Palestinians have themselves for international law.” Ayatollah Khomeini and said the govern- atomic on opponents, using “truth squads” (which dig up alleged inaccuracies in the media), “wheel-of- been living this reality of politics beyond “There can be no peace until there is an ment was “too Islamic.” Those comments law for several generations,” Kahn wrote. end to the blockade of Gaza for even the resulted in a 20-year prison term. pain” tactics (negative publicity to quicken settlements), and high-profile journalists (who write profiles).” “They have become adept at managing most basic economic materials,” said Nobakht, who holds both U.K. and — Business Week the violence, for neither side has any rea- Labor MP Richard Burden. Iranian citizenship and was described by sonable plan for settling the dispute polit- Marquand wrote, “There is less will- the Metro News as a part-time student at “The firm is also home to perhaps the most concentrated congregation of journalistic talent in the public ically.” ingness by the Brits to take at face value Stockport College and “housewife,” relations business. The vast majority of its senior professionals are former editors, reporters, and corre- More than 650 Palestinians have been the specter of Hamas as a rationale for posted the comments on Facebook while killed and 30 Israelis — 28 of them sol- any and all behavior by Tel Aviv.” visiting friends in Iran. Nobakht’s hus- spondents at such publications as Newsweek, the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, CBS News, diers — as of July 23. Coverage of Israel/Palestine and the band, Daryoush Taghipoor, 47, spent two and NPR, with most of the others having spent time in senior corporate communications positions.” Neither region can control rockets downing of Flight 17 have touched off months in Iran searching mortuaries, hos- Both the Palestinians and rebels in many hundreds of web comments by pitals and police stations when she did — The Holmes Report Eastern Ukraine have one thing in com- laypeople that reflect many different not return to her home in Manchester ear- mon, he noted — lack of control of their viewpoints. lier this year. rockets. One posting is that what Hamas is She is now being held at Evin Prison, “Like more than one figure caught in a media cyclone, (he) had turned to one of the most accomplished practi- The Palestinian rockets are “too primi- doing is “classic PR”— trying to get the described by Fox News as “Hell on tioners of the dark arts of public relations ... The Winston Wolf of public relations had arrived. Wolf, as you tive to discriminate in their targets” and a world’s attention to conditions that it earth.” will recall, was the fixer in Pulp Fiction … he washed away assassins’ blood and gore. Sitrick cleans up the similar “lack of sophistication” in the feels are unbearable. The rockets it pos- The New York Daily News, covering equipment of the Ukraine secessionists sesses are primitive and of little military the story on April 4, reported that friends messes of companies, celebrities, and others, and he’s a strategist who isn’t adverse to treating PR as combat.” resulted in the downing of Flight 17, threat to Israel, as Kahn points out. of hers have said she has lost 40 pounds — Fortune Kahn added. CNN and Fox News saw big jumps in and is “scared the government will kill Hamas combatants violate international their audiences in covering Flight 17 and her.” law by not openly identifying themselves Israel/Palestine. CNN, which had early Sources said Nobakht “confessed” To learn more about what people are saying about Sitrick And Company, go to our website: from civilians. But Kahn noted that only on-the-spot coverage of the Flight 17 after being tortured and is enduring insuf- by hiding can they survive. crash scene, saw its rating jump 82% in ferable conditions in the prison. She has www.sitrick.com He said Israel, which is also using total viewers on July 17 compared with told friends she would rather die than weapons that impact civilians, can claim the previous four Thursdays. spend 20 years there. it is complying with the laws of combat Social media plays role The Foreign Office of the U.K. govern- “but few outside of Israel accept that as an Postings on social media are having ment says it is investigating the imprison- excuse when the death and injury rates are key effects in the Ukraine and Gaza nar- ment. Andrew Stunell, Member of so out of proportion on the two sides.” ratives. Parliament for Nobakht’s home district in The New York Times reported July Ukrainian rebels were initially so joy- Manchester, has been pressuring U.K.’s 19 that four Israeli rockets hit the same ous about downing another aircraft that foreign affairs office to bring her home. floor of a building in Rafah housing a they posted on Russian social media that Seven other people were jailed in Iran at Corporate, Financial, Transactional, Reputational and Crisis Communications dozen foreign and Palestinian journalists they had just shot down a Ukrainian about the same time on charges of blas- who “narrowly escaped.” Israel issued a cargo plane. “We did warn you — do not phemy and insulting the country’s statement that it was not responsible for fly in our sky,” wrote Igor Girkin, a supreme leader on Facebook. the safety of journalists. leader of the Donetsk People’s Army. The punishments doled out by Iran, as Coverage abroad varies They did not know they had shot down a well as the policies of many companies Coverage of Israel/Palestine in Europe plane with 298 civilians in it. and organizations in the U.S., indicate Los Angeles • New York • San Francisco • Chicago • Washington, D.C. is “vastly different in scope and content” CNN correspondent Diana Magnay that these entities regard statements on than such coverage in the U.S., wrote tweeted that Israelis who cheered as social media to be as powerful as state- 800-288-8809 Christian Science Monitor Africa Editor bombs landed on Gaza were “scum” and ments in traditional media. £

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It’s Not What You Say About Yourself That Matters But What Others Say

Here’s what has been said about Sitrick And Company:

“The City’s Most Prominent Crisis Management Firm.” The New York Times

“Now (they) have hired Michael Sitrick, whose Los Angeles public-relations firm is known for going atomic on opponents, using “truth squads” (which dig up alleged inaccuracies in the media), “wheel-of- pain” tactics (negative publicity to quicken settlements), and high-profile journalists (who write profiles).” — Business Week “The firm is also home to perhaps the most concentrated congregation of journalistic talent in the public relations business. The vast majority of its senior professionals are former editors, reporters, and corre- spondents at such publications as Newsweek, the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, CBS News, and NPR, with most of the others having spent time in senior corporate communications positions.” — The Holmes Report

“Like more than one figure caught in a media cyclone, (he) had turned to one of the most accomplished practi- tioners of the dark arts of public relations ... The Winston Wolf of public relations had arrived. Wolf, as you will recall, was the fixer in Pulp Fiction … he washed away assassins’ blood and gore. Sitrick cleans up the messes of companies, celebrities, and others, and he’s a strategist who isn’t adverse to treating PR as combat.” — Fortune

To learn more about what people are saying about Sitrick And Company, go to our website: www.sitrick.com

Corporate, Financial, Transactional, Reputational and Crisis Communications

Los Angeles • New York • San Francisco • Chicago • Washington, D.C. 800-288-8809 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 30

O’Dwyer’s guide to: FINANCIAL PR & INVESTOR RELATIONS

Brunswick has grown organically, analysis. Cognito Analytics pro- THE ABERNATHY BLISS INTEGRATED operating as a single profit center vides a suite of cloud-based appli- — allowing us to respond seam- cations that cover both traditional MACGREGOR COMMUNICATION lessly to our clients’ needs, wher- and social media. GROUP ever they are in the world. When Member of the Worldcom Public clients turn to us, it’s because they COMMUNICATIONS Relations Group know that good communications is 277 Park Avenue, 39th Floor 500 5th Avenue, Suite 300 more than managing perceptions STRATEGY GROUP New York, NY 10022 New York, NY 10110 212/371-5999 — it’s essential to making business (CSG) 212/840-1661 work. Our background in financial www.abmac.com Fax 212/840-1663 www.blissintegrated.com communications means we under- stand how businesses are wired. It 44 Cook St., Suite 450 Our agency provides strategic, Denver, CO 80206 corporate and financial communi- Elizabeth Sosnow, Managing also means integrity is deep in our 720/726-5457 cations counsel to companies and Partner nature: diligence, openness and www.csg-pr.com boards of directors. We offer top- Meg Wildrick, Managing Partner accuracy. We have a reputation for [email protected] tier capability in corporate public Cortney Stapleton, Partner high-caliber, highly experienced relations, crisis management, initial people. So whatever the task, we Bliss Integrated Communication What sets CSG’s award-win- public offerings, litigation commu- can assemble a broad range of ning Financial Services communi- is an award-winning business-to- pertise from right across the nications, investor relations and ex cations team apart from the rest? business and business-to-consumer firm. Our clients know we’re shareholder activism, mergers and It’s our unique combination of marketing, public relations and always in their corner. We build acquisitions, and restructurings and industry expertise, leading-edge bankruptcies. We support our coun- communication firm. We thrive in trusted, long-term e space where financial servic- content marketing strategies and sel with a wide range of planning, th relationships which help our es, healthcare, professional serv- influencer connections. research and execution services. clients to deliver their strategy. ices and regulation intersect. CSG clients work closely with a Companies frequently seek our The dedicated Financial dedicated team of professionals counsel in times of change. Their COGNITO Services Practice Group offers a well versed in the challenges and needs may vary greatly — from rare combination of experience opportunities within each segment poor market valuation, lack of visi- and passion. The practice has a 11 Broadway, Floor 18 of the financial services industry. bility in the media or product crisis New York, NY 10004 deep understanding of various We help clients define goals and to financial distress, management 646/395-6300 financial services products and map out measurable strategies for transition or a pending transaction www.cognitomedia.com how they are sold and marketed. success. Our team is able to: — but our approach is consistent. [email protected] Our team meets the everyday Create and carefully place com- Narrowness of focus is a defining needs of our clients, whether in pelling, targeted content for audi- principle of the firm. We believe in Binna Kim, Managing Director, ences ranging from investment targeting small, influential audi- breaking industry news, digital New York Office encer targeting, crisis com- advisors to bank directors to con- ences, and using simple messages, influ munications or raising brand and sumers. constant feedback and follow-up. Cognito is an integrated com- thought leader profiles. Our Leverage longtime relationships We bring a diversity of experi- munications consulting firm for clients rely on us to tell their sto- to connect clients with prominent ence to every unique client situa- the financial and technology sec- ries in the midst of rapidly chang- reporters and critical industry tion. All of our professionals are tors. With offices in New York, ing markets. influencers, including analysts, accomplished practitioners of cor- London, Los Angeles and Our Financial team has diverse bloggers, social media VIPs and porate communications; many have Singapore, we help firms improve functional expertise — strategy, associations. particular expertise in corporate their performance and manage branding, marketing, PR, content Effectively apply the latest tac- finance, corporate management, their reputation. We provide plan- development, digital media, crisis tics in content marketing, digital electoral and regulatory politics, ning, marketing, design, PR and media and public relations. investment banking, investment and analytics. Clients include social campaigns, together with both well known names and those All of these deliverables are management, law, strategic plan- proprietary software that delivers backed up with success metrics ning, or traditional and digital that are emerging in banking, measurability and intelligence. nagement, insurance, and analytics, so clients always media. Our structure allows each asset ma Cognito is an international PR, wealth management, investment know the exact return on their client to have access to the full digital and marketing agency that banking, financial technology and investment in CSG. range of expertise within the firm. specializes in the financial services private equity. The Abernathy MacGregor sector. From offices in London, COOPERKATZ & Group is based in New York City, New York, Los Angeles and with offices in Houston, Los BRUNSWICK Singapore, Cognito works with CO. INC. Angeles and San Francisco and a GROUP financial institutions, investment network of closely affiliated agen- companies and system/data 205 Lexington Avenue, 5th Floor cies in the financial centers of providers to implement programs New York, NY 10016 Europe, Asia, the Americas and the 245 Park Avenue, 14th Floor that help them improve their busi- www.cooperkatz.com Middle East. New York, NY 10167 ness’ profile, reputation, marketing 212/333-3810 and lead generation. Cognito’s Ralph Katz, Principal View and download entire issues of www.brunswickgroup.com research and technology division Anne Green, President, CEO O’Dwyer’s magazine in PDF format, as well Cognito Analytics, enables compa- as hundreds of company profiles in our Brunswick is a leading business nies to plan and execute more CooperKatz & Company offers searchable online database. communications firm: a global informed business and communi- full-service public relations, digi- partnership with 22 offices in 13 cation strategies based on thorough tal and creative services capabili- WWW.ODWYERPR.COM countries. Founded in 1987, industry information, research and ties to a national client base, with

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PROFILES OF FINANCIAL PR AND INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS

significant industry experience and blogs. Trade outlets in which across the many sectors of the DPR regularly places clients financial services industry. We include, Institutional Investor, are highly regarded for our strong Pensions & Investments, among strategic and creative credentials. many others. Our 18-year track record includes The agency also is particularly the development and execution of strong in broadcast, where it aver- high-impact communications ages approximately 50 bookings campaigns for such financial per month — mainly on CNBC, services clients as: American Bloomberg, and Fox Business Institute of Certified Public Network. Accountants (AICPA); CapGemini DPR also provides comprehen- (Financial Services practice); sive media and presentation train- DealerTrack; Fiserv; Guardian Life ing, message development, edito- Insurance Company of America; rial services, a speaker’s bureau, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service; J.P. crisis communications and digital Morgan; National Association of media services. Insurance Commissioners (NAIC); Key Clients: Raymond James, Richard Anderson, Senior Managing Director of Financial Services S1 Enterprise; TD Bank; and ana- JMP Group, BlueMountain at Feintuch Communications. lyst firm, TowerGroup. Capital, Gabelli Funds, Old Our expertise encompasses Mutual Asset Management, both business-to-business and Muddy Waters, EisnerAmper, business-to-consumers offerings Global X Management, Morgan Anderson is the former chair of insurance carriers, banks, wealth and outreach, and extends across Creek Capital, Brandes PRSA’s financial communica- management firms, and other a spectrum of services. Clients Investment Partners, O’Connor tions section. financial firms call on us. leverage our award-winning team (UBS). FC is a founding member of Media training is available on- for needs including: brand posi- PR World Alliance, an interna- site or in our Philadelphia studios. tioning; media relations; industry FEINTUCH tional alliance of premier inde- analyst relations; digital/social pendent PR and IR consultancies. ICR strategy and execution; social COMMUNICATIONS Our principal is vice chair of community management; content PRWA and 2014 president of 685 Third Ave, 2nd Floor / editorial strategy; advertising; 245 Park Ave., 39th Fl. PRSA-NY. New York, NY 10017 video production; collateral mate- New York, NY 10167 646/277-1200 rials; design; and more. 212/808-4900 Fax: 646/277-1201 [email protected] GREGORY FCA www.feintuchcommunications.com DUKAS PUBLIC www.PRWorldAlliance.com 27 West Athens Avenue Established in 1998 and pri- RELATIONS Ardmore, PA 19003 vately-held, ICR partners with Henry Feintuch, President 610/642-8253 companies to develop strategic Richard Anderson, Senior www.gregoryfca.com communications programs that 100 W. 26th Street Managing Director www.gregoryfca.com/weekly-recap achieve business goals, manage New York, NY 10001 risk, and enhance the value of 212/704-7385 Feintuch Communications Joe Anthony, President, the enterprise. The firm’s pair- [email protected] Financial Services ing of capital markets veterans www.dukaspr.com (FC) provides true integrated [email protected] financial communications servic- Joe Hassett, SVP, Investor and senior communications pro- es to public companies and those fessionals provides a highly-dif- Richard Dukas, CEO & Relations Chairman seeking to go public. We have a [email protected] ferentiated offering, one that Seth Linden, President sophisticated understanding of Douglas Rose, COO continues to serve as the foun- Doug Hesney, Sr. VP the intersection between investor [email protected] dation for significant Zach Leibowitz, VP and public relations and work growth. Today, ICR has Sean Dougherty, VP with our clients to bridge any Seeking a communications approximately 400 clients Stephanie Dressler, VP gaps between them. Our senior partner that knows the ins-and- across 20 industries and is one Zach Kouwe, VP team helps companies to mine outs of the financial services of the largest independent agen- their business assets for “The world? Our team of seasoned cies in North America. The firm DPR’s clients include both Street” and financial/ business financial services public relations maintains offices in Boston, well-known and emerging com- accomplishments for the trade. and investor relations profession- Connecticut, Los Angeles, New panies in many key areas of FC has a particular expertise in als has served as the agency of York, San Francisco and finance, including: hedge funds counseling companies in crisis record for more than 250 financial Beijing. In 2013, ICR once and alternative investments; pri- situations involving the SEC, industry firms since our founding again saw double digit revenue vate equity, mutual funds; ETFs; DOJ and and other types of gov- in 1990. From specialized growth driven by new client wealth advisory; investment ernment investigations. The firm investor relations work to nuanced wins including Noodles & banking; broker/dealers, precious provides strategic IR services in- media relations and issues man- Company, Advent Software, metals, fintech, prime brokerage, house and works in partnership agement engagements, our team is Diamond Foods, Container accounting, real estate, and law. with best-of-breed providers to equipped to meet the ever-chang- Store, Inc. and AMC DPR is highly regarded for its deliver a full IR platform includ- ing needs of our clients in this Entertainment Holdings. In ability to generate consistent top- ing corporate positioning, institu- quickly evolving communications January of 2014, ICR hosted the tier coverage for its clients in the tional and sell-side targeting, IPO landscape. With a strong track 16th Annual ICR XChange, the media, including The Wall Street consulting and road shows, con- record in generating A-list media firm’s annual investor confer- Journal, New York Times, ference call preparation, share- coverage and executing innova- ence. The event saw more than Barron’s, Financial Times, holder letters, M&A advice, tive digital media campaigns, 150 private and public company CNBC, Bloomberg and all of the speaking platforms and more. there is a reason why ETF spon- management teams and 2,300 top trade publications, websites Financial practice head Rick sors, mutual funds, RIA firms, attendees.

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PROFILES OF FINANCIAL PR AND INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS

across many industries. Our pro- they excel at helping clients artic- INTERMARKET fessionals have been recognized ulate and effectively communi- MAKOVSKY by our peers, the financial com- cate their key messages to their COMMUNICATIONS munity and journalists for their most important audiences. 16 East 34th Street quality work, strategic acumen Kekst is headquartered in New New York, NY 10016 425 Madison Avenue, Suite 600 and creative approach to chal- York. 212/508-9600 New York, NY 10017 lenging issues. The firm’s prac- [email protected] 212/888-6115 tice areas include investor rela- LANE www.makovsky.com tions, corporate communications, Partners: Martin Mosbacher transaction communications, Ken Makovsky, President & CEO 500 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2720 , EVP, Financial [email protected] shareholder activism and corpo- Scott Tangney Matt Zachowski New York, NY 10110 Services Practice Leader [email protected] rate governance, crisis communi- 212/302-5365 Mike Goodwin, SVP cations and special situations, lit- www.lanepr.com John McInerney, GVP Intermarket Communications igation support, restructuring and is a leading independent provider bankruptcy, and private equity. 905 SW 16th Avenue Makovsky opened its doors 35 Joele Frank consistently ranks Portland, OR 97205 years ago as a diversified financial of public relations and marketing 503/221-0480 services to clients in the global among the top PR firms in communications firm. Since then, financial services industry as well announced M&A transactions, the firm has strategically grown its defense against activist investors, Wendy Lane Stevens, President financial services practice in rev- as select corporate clients. We Amber Roberts, Vice President offer clients a combination of and restructurings. enue, reputation and expertise. strategic expertise and informed From the start of each engage- execution designed to generate KEKST AND LANE is a national, independ- ment, we are part of a client’s team. the media coverage and social ent firm with a 24-year track “The Power of Specialized media amplification that builds COMPANY record of driving growth through Thinking,” Makovsky’s brand ener- and maintains reputation, and strategic communications coun- gy line, reflects the firm’s competi- sel. tive edge. We are a savvy team of achieves sustained results. 437 Madison Avenue, 37th Floor Founded in 1986, Intermarket LANE’s financial services financial services communications New York, NY 10022 practitioners have relevant edu- professionals with diversified back- Communications works with www.kekst.com clients throughout the global 212/521-4800 cation and direct experience in grounds aligned with the specializa- business community, including the financial industry. We couple tions critical to the financial servic- investment marketplaces and James Fingeroth, President and our in-depth understanding of the es industry. This alignment pro- exchanges, leading buy-side and Chief Executive Officer industry with a tenacious duces effective programs, which sell-side institutions, banks, alter- Lawrence Rand, Executive approach to connecting with build reputation, sales and fair valu- Chairman native investment providers, media and other critical audi- ation. technology and service providers, ences. Our clients span the finan- Makovsky expertise is deep and as well as government and indus- Kekst and Company is one of cial services spectrum, and we broad — from wealth management, try organizations. the world’s leading corporate, have built significant expertise in brokerage, banking, insurance, real Service is the key factor that financial and strategic communi- retail and commercial banking, estate, ratings, accounting, consult- sets Intermarket apart. At cations firms. investment firms, investment ing, legal, executive search and Intermarket, all clients work We advise senior managements banking, wealth management, financial technology, to asset man- directly with a team of experi- and boards of directors of pub- and private equity. Our tailored, agement vehicles of all types, enced financial communications licly-listed as well as private multifaceted programs engage including mutual funds, ETFs, professionals who understand companies and institutions on targeted audiences, from media, REITs, hedge funds, venture capital your business, help shape your their most serious communica- bloggers and consumers to and private equity. story, and know how to make that tions issues. The firm takes pride investors, analysts and key influ- An Inc. 5000 growth company, story resonate with the audiences in its strong long-term client rela- encers, with an emphasis on Makovsky was honored in 2013 you need to reach. tionships, many spanning areas critical to an institution’s with an unprecedented 28 client decades. ongoing success: strengthening campaign, firm and individual In addition to Kekst’s expertise brands, building thought leader- awards, including multiple JOELE FRANK, in virtually every facet of corpo- ship, safeguarding reputations “Agency of the Year” awards. In WILKINSON rate and investor communica- and managing strategic invest- 2014, we have already won 13 tions, a significant proportion of ments. awards including the PRSA Big BRIMMER KATCHER our engagements involve “special LANE’s investor and commu- Apple, for our work on behalf of a situations” such as: crisis com- nication strategies benefit micro- leading financial services client. 622 Third Avenue, 36th Floor munications, mergers & acquisi- to small-cap companies seeking And now in its third year, New York, NY 10017 tions, bankruptcies and restruc- better visibility and valuations. Makovsky’s “Wall Street 212/355-4449 turings, litigation support, spin- For more than two decades, Reputation Study,” has won the www.joelefrank.com offs, proxy and other corporate LANE has built credibility and 2014 Stevie Gold Award for awareness for companies and Innovation in PR and the 2014 PR 1 Sansome Street, Suite 2800 governance issues (i.e., activist San Francisco, CA 94104 matters, senior management suc- their leadership teams. As a World Gold Award. Other acco- cession and transitions). The firm strategic partner to growing pub- lades have included a full comple- Joele Frank, Managing Partner is also a leader in advising private lic companies, LANE is knowl- ment of Silver Anvils, Sabre Matthew Sherman, President equity firms and hedge funds. edgeable about every aspect of Awards, and IABC Awards. Kekst’s professionals are high- our clients’ businesses and indus- Headquartered in New York, Joele Frank provides effective ly experienced, with diverse try sectors as well as the financial Makovsky has global reach through and disciplined communications backgrounds. They are adept at environment in which they oper- IPREX, a partnership of more than counsel and support to help our strategy and implementation. ate. We understand which mes- 100 offices, $800 million in billings clients take control in advancing Our people possess a deep under- sages will resonate with and nearly 2,000 professionals their business and strategic objec- standing of the business world, investors, analysts and the media founded by Makovsky. It today tives. Our clients range from the capital markets and the media and are adept at crafting com- stands as the second largest world- large, global public corporations — both traditional and new pelling reasons for investment in wide corporation of independent to smaller, private enterprises media. And, most importantly, a company. agencies.

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PROFILES OF FINANCIAL PR AND INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS

tives who previously managed one tomer/brand loyalty, build share- litigation communications, MARKETING of the largest independent investor holder value and drive deal success labor/employee relations, commu- relations firms in the country, MBS among all key constituencies. nity relations, market research, MAVEN PUBLIC combines the experience and repu- executive speechwriting, and RELATIONS tation of a leading international NASDAQ OMX branding. communications firm with the part- ner-level attention of a boutique CORPORATE NIRI 135 W. 29th Street, Suite 302 advisory. SOLUTIONS New York, NY 10001 Our senior level advisors draw 212/967-5510 on decades of experience in invest- 225 Reinekers Lane, Ste. 560 www.marketingmavenpr.com ment management, research, media nasdaqomx.com/pr-solutions Alexandria, VA 22314 703/562-7700 Lindsey Carnett, CEO & President relations and as operating execu- Today, no matter what business [email protected] tives to help CEOs and CFOs [email protected] you’re in, you’re in the information www.niri.org Phil Rarick, COO develop and execute customized IR business. We help 10,000 organiza- [email protected] and PR strategies. We are commu- tions manage and master the two- Natalie Rucker, VP, Business Dev. nications specialists with a deep Matt Brusch, VP, Communications [email protected] way flow of information with their and Practice Information knowledge of the financial drivers audiences through our unmatched and smart strategists who know suite of technology and services — Marketing Maven Public what moves analysts, investors and Founded in 1969, NIRI is the Relations is a results-driven inte- across Communications, Investor professional association of corpo- journalists, and can deliver posi- Relations, Digital Media and grated marketing and communica- tive, tangible results. rate officers and investor relations tions firm specializing in earning Governance. consultants responsible for com- With offices in New York, Staying ahead of the conversa- positive editorial media coverage Buenos Aires, London and São munication among corporate man- for a variety of businesses in the tion demands that your communi- agement, shareholders, securities Paulo, MBS works with small and cation tools keep up as well. NAS- financial sector, both public and mid-size public and private U.S. analysts and other financial com- private. Our financial clients are DAQ OMX Corporate Solu tions munity constituents. The largest companies, as well as offering spe- provides you with the technology regularly cited as expert sources in cialized services in bondholder, professional investor relations national broadcast, print and online and support you need to manage association in the world, NIRI’s private equity and media relations. every stage of the communications media outlets. Internationally, we have extensive more than 3,300 members repre- Our financial clients value the lifecycle. sent over 1,600 publicly held com- experience working with Latin With NASDAQ OMX media training seminars we exe- American and European compa- panies and $9 trillion in stock mar- cute for their spokespeople to pre- Corporate Solutions, you have the ket capitalization. Membership in nies seeking to raise their visibility technology and insight you need to pare for TV interviews and poten- in the investment community. NIRI entitles the investor relations tial questions from reporters. From deliver powerful communications professional to a wide range of and demonstrate the results. speaking engagements, award sub- MWW benefits such as educational pro- missions, marketing collateral and grams, publications and network- press releases to shareholders, NICOLAZZO & ing. Marketing Maven Public Relations 901 New York Avenue NW ASSOCIATES customizes campaigns to fit the Suite 310 West PADILLACRT needs of the client. Washington, D.C. 20001 202/600-4570 861 Washington Street With expertise in creating inno- www.mww.com 1101 West River Parkway, #400 vative communication solutions, Second Floor, Suite #1 Newtonville, MA 02460 Minneapolis, MN 55415 we represent a wide array of clients Richard Tauberman, Executive 617/559-0000 612/455-1700 in the financial services sector Vice President [email protected] www.padillacrt.com including professional trader edu- www.nicolazzo.com cation companies, advising and MWW is one of the nation’s top Marian Briggs, Executive VP investment firms, financial plan- mid-sized public relations firms Richard E. Nicolazzo, Mng. Partner Al Galgano, VP ning, retirement and estate plan- and one of the five largest inde- Joe Grillo, Richard Adler, ning, investment partnerships, cor- pendent agencies. We ensure that Kathleen Buckley, Lisa-Marie Rated highly by our clients for porate training and private consult- our clients Matter More™ by pro- Cashman, Ruth Maron, strategic counsel and client satis- Victor Emmanuel, Craig Orsi, faction, PadillaCRT is a top 12 ing companies, payment solution viding strategic counsel and inte- Hank Shafran, Sr. Consultants firms, securities firms and consult- grated corporate and financial independent public relations firm ing firms. communications programs for both Nicolazzo & Associates is a with deep expertise in investor publicly traded and privately held nationally-known, award-winning relations and corporate communi- MBS VALUE companies across a multitude of strategic communications manage- cations. We focus in health care, situations and sectors. ment firm that provides high-level technology, financial, manufactur- PARTNERS From IPO planning/counsel and professional counsel and services ing and consumer industries — traditional investor relations activi- to a diverse, national, and interna- from startups and small-cap 501 Madison Avenue, 13th Floor ties to merger & acquisition and tional client base. A boutique Nasdaq companies, to mature, New York, NY 10017 restructuring communications, organization founded more than NYSE-listed firms. We provide www.mbsvalue.com MWW has a proven track record of three decades ago by Richard E. counsel ranging from IPO services, 212/750-5800 implementing strategic communi- Nicolazzo, the firm practices a pro- M&A support and investment cations campaigns that support prietary counseling model community targeting to handling Lynn Morgen, Partner business objectives and are respon- designed to leverage an organiza- potentially volatile announce- [email protected] sive to the unique needs of all inter- tion’s core strengths to enhance ments, activist investors, CSR pro- Betsy Brod, Partner [email protected] nal and external stakeholders. Our brand and enterprise grams, perception audits and Monique Skruzny, Partner success is predicated on the experi- value. Services include investor employee communications. [email protected] ence of senior level counselors and relations, crisis communications Included in our six U.S. locations is proprietary methodologies that management, strategic planning an office in Midtown Manhattan MBS Value Partners is an combine financial communica- and communications, media rela- that adds an on-the-ground finan- Investor Relations and Financial tions/ investor relations, reputation tions and training, management cial media capability. A founding Communications firm dedicated to management, influencer relations consulting, merger and acquisitions member of the Worldcom Public helping clients maximize value and and employee communications communications, corporate Relations Group, our reach and raise their visibility. With execu- programs to help enhance cus- restructurings, issues management, influence are worldwide.

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financial products, intermediary assessment and compliance; per- Sard Verbinnen & Co. provides channels, deals & transactions, ception studies; litigation/regulato- strategic communications advice PEPPERCOMM activist situations, distressed and ry matter support; and crisis and and services to help our clients bankruptcy workouts, as well as issues management. manage overall positioning and 470 Park Ave. South regulatory issues and crisis commu- specific events affecting reputation 4th Floor North nications. RUDER FINN, INC. and market value. We work on New York, NY 10016 Key clients include: EY, Euler behalf of multinational corpora- Hermes, Financial Accounting tions, smaller public and private 212/931-6100 301 East 57th Street Fax: 212/931-6159 Foundation/Financial Accounting New York, NY 10022 companies, investment firms, pro- [email protected] Standards Board/Governmental 212/593-6400 fessional services firms, education- www.peppercomm.com Accounting Standards Board, [email protected] al and cultural institutions, and Merchant Cash & Capital, high-profile individuals. Steve Cody, Co-CEO & Co- Oppenheimer, Paulson & Co., Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO The firm’s highly experienced Founder Pershing, Sterling National Bank, Michael Schubert, Chief senior professionals provide sound, Ed Moed, Co-CEO & Co-Founder Wells Fargo. Innovation Officer objective advice and execution Ann Barlow, Partner & President, Rachel Spielman, EVP, Global West Coast support to clients across a broad Head of Corporate Practice spectrum of industries. Our work is Ted Birkhahn, Partner & President RF | BINDER Sloan Pavsner, Senior VP Jacqueline Kolek, Partner & anchored in media relations, Managing Director investor relations and social media 950 Third Avenue, 7th Floor Ruder Finn, one of the world’s Thomas Walek, President, largest global independent commu- & online communications in sup- WalekPeppercomm New York, NY 10022 212/994-7501 nications agencies, helps organiza- port of corporate positioning, trans- Armel Leslie, Senior Director, action communications, litigation WalekPeppercomm www.rfbinder.com tions enhance and protect corporate reputation, build trust and increase support, special situations and cri- Diana Soltmann, Chief Executive & sis communications engagements. Founding Director, Flagship Amy Binder, CEO shareholder value with strategic Consulting Alison Ross, Senior Managing financial communications pro- Founded in 1992, our firm is rec- Dir., New Business Development grams tailored to clients’ unique ognized for delivering candid and Peppercomm is an award-win- needs. We project-manage commu- thoughtful strategic advice, excel- ning strategic, integrated marketing RF|Binder is a boutique public nications around M&A deals, from lent written product, tactical execu- communications firm headquar- relations consultancy that develops strategic positioning and logistics tion, and tireless advocacy on tered in New York City with offices and executes strategic communica- to comprehensive constituency behalf of our clients, and we are in San Francisco, Boulder and tions programs that attract media, management across all stakehold- regularly cited as one of the top London that prides itself on listen- investor and public attention for our ers, including media, advocacy M&A and crisis communications ing first, last and always. The firm’s clients. Our industry focus includes groups, employees, customers, pol- advisors in North America. tagline: “Listen. Engage. Repeat.” financial services, energy and the icy and government officials. Our senior professionals are emphasizes the unique approach the environment, food and nutrition, Partnering with some of the actively engaged in both counsel agency takes in understanding lifestyle and healthy living, technol- world’s leading companies in and implementation. Their diverse exactly how a client can engage in ogy and education. Our capabilities healthcare, technology, consumer backgrounds and expertise, unpar- authentic conversations with its include brand and corporate reputa- goods and financial services, Ruder alleled relationships and credibility audience. The firm is one of the top tion programs, financial media rela- Finn’s work spans communications with the media, and deep under- ten largest in the US serving finan- tions, investor relations and inte- and digital engagement campaigns standing of the investment commu- cial services clients in banking, grated marketing programs. around corporate transformations nity drive the firm’s ability to help investment management, interme- In our financial services practice, and restructurings, complex and our clients manage complex situa- diaries, insurance, financial tech- RF|Binder’s client experience contested transactions, litigation tions and communicate to multiple nology, and alternatives. encompasses a broad range of and complex global issues. We constituencies effectively. At Peppercomm, our experience financial service sectors, including work with companies to reach out runs deep — spanning products, retail and commercial banking, to new stakeholders and financial SCHNEIDER services, clients and markets. From investment banking, asset manage- markets, as well as enhance their ASSOCIATES individual retirement investment ment, accounting, insurance and focus on existing ones. Our core advisors to global banking giants, financial technology. We also help capabilities include corporate posi- we are astute in the many nuances nonprofits and associations influ- tioning and message development, Member of the Worldcom Public and intricacies of the sector and can ence the public conversation about executive coaching, stakeholder Relations Group mapping and engagement, global 2 Oliver Street, Suite 901 help companies chart the best critical issues in financial services. Boston, MA 02109 course to gain clarity and leader- Our financial services practice is analyst and financial media rela- 617/536-3300 ship. With the guidance of our team enhanced by our many years of tions, issues management, SEO www.schneiderpr.com of strategic analysts, Peppercomm experience in the investor relations and web presence optimization. works with clients to navigate the and capital market communications Across all our global offices, we Joan Schneider, Chief Executive complexities of the current business arena. RF|Binder’s capital markets continually partner with our clients Officer & Founder environment and build responsive, team provides counsel and services to help them navigate business Phil Pennellatore, President forward looking solutions. We that help clients succeed in the glob- challenges through strategic think- bring transparency and assurance to al competition for capital. We work ing, global perspective and an inno- Successfully communicating the conversation and help compa- with public and pre-IPO companies vative mix of traditional and digital key messages to diverse audiences nies create meaningful dialogues to cultivate broad recognition of channels. in the ever-changing digital age is with constituents through integrated their performance and prospects one of the biggest challenges fac- communication. among key market audiences, fos- SARD VERBINNEN ing today’s corporate leaders. The agency significantly ampli- tering fair valuations and ultimately, Schneider Associates has created fied its expertise in capital markets, lowering the cost of capital. Our & CO. public relations and integrated mar- asset management and investor capabilities include counsel on cor- keting communications programs relations with the 2013 acquisition porate / financial transactions; 630 Third Ave., 9th Fir. for hundreds of financial services of Walek & Associates. Now a M&A communications and integra- New York, NY 10017 providers, law firms, commercial team of specialists within the tion strategy; executive coaching 212/687-8080 real estate brokers and developers, agency, WalekPeppercomm brings and support; corporate positioning; www.sardverb.com deep expertise in institutional and investor targeting and outreach pro- George Sard, Chairman & CEO 0Continued on page 36 retail asset management, complex grams; corporate governance Paul Verbinnen, President ADVERTISING SECTION 3 AUGUST 2014 3 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM 35 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 36

PROFILES OF FINANCIAL PR AND INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS

SCHNEIDER ASSOCIATES tion, labor and land use disputes; Fax: 212/486-9094 investment banks and retail/insti- when they win political campaigns, [email protected] tutional asset managers. We’ve Continued from page 35 defeat unwanted regulation, or helped other companies grow 0 , CEO manage issues so they don’t turn Elliot Sloane from fledgling businesses into Darren Brandt, Whit Clay, John into crises...” Hartz, Josh Hochberg, Mng. Dirs. household names. We are as care- engineering and environmental ful at selecting our clients as they firms, colleges and universities, SITRICK & CO. Sloane & Company is an indus- are at choosing us, and if we do private schools and nonprofit business together you can be cer- organizations. The agency’s pro- try-leading strategic communica- tions firm focusing on corporate tain you’ll have our undivided grams accelerate awareness and 11999 San Vicente Blvd., Penthouse attention, on-point thinking, and engagement, and help our clients Los Angeles, CA 90049 and financial public relations, 310/788-2850 investor relations, issues manage- unwavering co-commitment to achieve measurable growth. your success. Through integrated marketing Fax: 310/788-2855 ment and crisis communications, transaction support, and public strategies, we create multiple brand 7 Times Square, #2600 WEBER touch points with customer and New York, NY 10036-6524 affairs. stakeholder audiences while gener- 212/573-6100 The firm provides expertise to SHANDWICK ating significant awareness in con- Fax: 212/573-6165 clients across a wide range of industries and for organizations of verged media channels, including 333 West Wacker Drive 909 Third Avenue marquee placements in publications Suite 2850 all sizes and at various stages of their lifecycles, from dynamic New York, NY 10022 such as The Wall Street Journal, Chicago, IL 60606 212/445-8000 The New York Times, The 312/775-6744 start-ups to Fortune 100 companies to industry groups. 2 Waterhouse Sq. Huffington Post, and ABC San Francisco office Nightline. We are a team of professionals 104 Holborn 415/369-8470 with backgrounds in finance, mar- London, UK Schneider Associates is a full- +44 20 7067 0297 service public relations firm spe- Washington D.C. Office keting, politics, and journalism, 443/977-7215 and we combine our experiences in cializing in Launch Public Liz Cohen, Senior Vice ® a focused and entrepreneurial envi- Relations . Clients include Michael S. Sitrick, Chairman & CEO President, New York Cassidy Turley, MIT Sloan School Brian Glicklich, Chair of Digital ronment. Each day we are in direct Jim Donaldson, Executive Vice of Management, Katz Graduate Practice contact with key news organiza- President, London School of Business, D’Amore- Terry Fahn, Firm Member tions, analysts, shareholders and McKim School of Business at Tom Becker, Head of the New opinion leaders on behalf of our Weber Shandwick’s Financial York Office clients. Our programs reflect a Communications practice com- Northeastern University, Spagnolo and Gisness & Associates and the Wendy Tanaka Mark Verveka, highly developed ability and pro- bines transactional and financial Firm Members, San Francisco found understanding of how to issues expertise with the resources, Boston Improvement District. Learn Danielle Newman, Firm Member, more at schneiderpr.com work across the entire spectrum of industry knowledge and interna- Chicago audiences and intermediaries. As a Lt. Gen. H. Steven Blum (USA tional reach of a full-service and SINGER Ret.), Managing Dir., Baltimore/D.C. result, we help our clients deliver truly global agency. the right messages to the right audi- As experts in communications ASSOCIATES, INC. Sitrick & Company is widely ences, using a range of platforms around mergers and acquisitions, regarded as one of North America’s from traditional media to digital spin-offs, bankruptcies and restruc- 47 Kearny St., 2nd Flr. leading strategic communications channels. turings, initial public offerings, spe- San Francisco, CA 94108 firms. While it has substantial prac- Sloane & Company has a strong cial situations and issues manage- 415/227-9700 tices in corporate, financial, transac- track-record of building long-term ment, Weber Shandwick counsels Fax: 415/348-8478 tional and crisis communications, relationships with clients, who con- listed and privately-held companies www.singersf.com Sitrick is best known for represent- sider us a trusted resource — espe- and organizations on a global basis, ing clients facing sensitive issues, cially when the stakes are high. advising clients on many of the Singer Associates Public including reputation management, largest and most complex issues Relations and Public Affairs is one complex litigation, problems ema- WATER & WALL and transactions. Our U.S. M&A of the nation’s leading public rela- nating from short-sellers, mergers GROUP communications practice is the tions, corporate communications and acquisitions and restructurings. fastest growing — having moved and issue management agencies. The New York Times called Sitrick up 84 spots year-over-year to #15 The agency dominates the space “The City’s Most Prominent Crisis 107 Grand Street, 4th Floor in Mergermarkets’ 2013 U.S. rank- where news media, government, Management Firm.” Business Week New York, NY 10013 ing with 16 transactions. the public, and the financial com- said, the “firm is known for going 212/625-2363 We work closely with clients munity intersect. www.waterandwallgroup.com atomic on opponents, using ‘truth [email protected] and their advisors to ensure consis- Singer is the leading communi- squads,’ ‘wheel-of-pain’ tactics and tent, targeted outreach to key cations agency for high-stakes high-profile journalists (who write Andrew Healy, Partner stakeholders, including investors, financial issues, management labor profiles).” The general counsel of a Scott Sunshine, Partner analysts, employees, customers, issues, environmental, energy, major publicly-traded company vendors and journalists to support transportation, housing, real estate, wrote simply in an email, “You Water & Wall Group is an inde- effective communications around land use, government advocacy saved the company, literally.” pendent communications firm critical financial transactions and and political campaigns. Please visit www.sitrick.com for specializing in financial and cor- issues both locally and globally. Singer Associates is cited as the more information on the firm porate communications. Our team Weber Shandwick’s financial com- top “issues-oriented agency in the including a list of current and for- has helped myriad financial enti- munications team has an on-the- United States” and “quite simply, mer clients for which its work has ties build their brands, articulate ground presence in leading finan- one of the best small to mid-size been public. investment intelligensia, ironclad cial centers and can draw upon agencies in the country” by The their reputations, navigate crises, unmatched local market expertise Holmes Report. The magazine SLOANE & and drive asset flows. We’ve to identify and mobilize advocates. selected Singer as the “Public worked with some of the best- Our established relationships with Affairs Agency of the Year,” stating COMPANY known financial brands in the key financial, business and indus- that “[Singer] has a simple defini- industry, including mutual funds, try media and investment commu- tion of success: (The Agency) 7 Times Square, 17th Flr. hedge funds, private equity funds, nity influencers are critical in sup- knows its achieved it when its New York, NY 10036 VC firms, ETF providers, wealth porting our clients’ business objec- clients emerge victorious in litiga- 212/486-9500 managers, research providers, tives. £

36 AUGUST 2014 4 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM 4 ADVERTISING SECTION Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 37 O’DWYER’S RANKINGS TOP FINANCIAL PR & INVESTOR RELATIONS FIRMS

Firm Net Fees (2013) Firm Net Fees (2013)

1. 24. Edelman New York $42,381,726 Singer Associates San Francisco $821,000

2. 25. ICR Norwalk, CT 39,692,938 CooperKatz & Co. New York 625,013

3. 26. APCO Worldwide Wash., D.C. 14,144,438 Beehive PR St. Paul, MN 602,582

4. 27. Ruder Finn New York 13,901,000 Leverage PR Austin 580,364

5. 28. Prosek Partners New York 12,563,241 Jackson Spalding Atlanta 532,492

6. 29. MWW New York 5,775,000 Rasky Baerlein Strat. Comms. Boston 508,475

7. 30. Peppercomm New York 4,260,369 Inkhouse Media + Marketing Waltham, MA 453,203

8. 31. RF | Binder Partners New York 4,218,859 Seigenthaler Public Relations Nashville 451,746

9. 32. Intermarket Comms. New York 4,128,335 French | West | Vaughan Raleigh 310,118

10. 33. Makovsky New York 3,800,000 Linhart Public Relations Denver 308,101

11. 34. Dukas Public Relations New York 3,741,809 rbb Public Relations Miami 289,108

12. 35. Gregory FCA Ardmore, PA 3,200,000 Trevelino/Keller Atlanta 240,000

13. 36. SS|PR Northfield, IL 2,700,000 IW Group W. Hollywood 219,000

14. 37. Bliss Integrated Comm. New York 2,131,000 TransMedia Group Boca Raton, FL 200,000

15. 38. PadillaCRT Minneapolis 1,720,775 McNeely Pigott & Fox Nashville 190,551

16. 39. Allison+Partners San Francisco 1,668,000 Schneider Associates Boston 167,994

17. 40. Lambert, Edwards + Asscs. Grand Rapids, MI 1,536,645 Landis Communications San Francisco 150,000

18. 41. Regan Comms. Group Boston 1,291,000 Feintuch Communications New York 122,141

19. 42. Finn Partners New York 1,240,894 Sachs Media Group Tallahassee 121,061

20. 43. LEVICK Wash., D.C. 1,140,000 Standing Partnership St. Louis 83,037

21. 44. Zeno Group New York 990,319 Marketing Maven PR Camarillo, CA 74,299

22. 45. Gibbs & Soell New York 917,218 Maccabee Minneapolis 68,007

23. 46. Lane Portland, OR 829,585 Weiss PR Baltimore 66,000

© Copyright 2014 The J.R. O'Dwyer Co. Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 38

FEATURE Professional services and the transparency movement Professional services marketers face a conundrum. Consolidation among firms is growing — fueled by an increasingly global marketplace and technologies blurring traditional competitive boundaries media — while economic volatility has created fluctuations in demand for services. Meanwhile, buyers have grown more sophisticated and cynical, shaking up the buying cycle, scrutinizing fees more closely, and raising the bar for the kind of content that will get their attention. As a result, Ripp professional services firms are operating in a more complex and competitive environment than ever. By Cortney Stapleton and Aven James Delivering strategic, high-impact media relations since 1986 increased oversight of and transparency Who are your brand ambassadors and he stakes for creating successful from U.S. companies. how do you engage them? In professional marketing strategies that help com- At the same time, new technologies and services firms operating in the age of trans- Tpanies stand out and connect with the rise of digital platforms have shifted the parency, the answer includes employees, buyers are exceedingly high. Yet, it has power from organizations to employees customers and countless other stakeholders. never been more challenging to create and consumers, creating unprecedented It’s important that these key audiences are • Legal affairs/litigation/law firms; financial & professional services breakthrough marketing strategies that dif- demand for sincere and authentic market- targeted with relevant communications and ferentiate their often fungible products or ing communications. Gone are the days supporting marketing materials that enable services. when company or employee business them to experience the organization’s values A recent Adobe and Econsultancy sur- could be kept behind a firewall. Today, and effectively tell its story, optimizing the • Specialized practice areas and capabilities: M&A; capital markets; vey of more than 2,500 marketers from professional services organizations are consistency and impact of message in the both the B2B and B2C worlds found that operating in an environment where trans- market. private equity; securities and white collar; intellectual property; content marketing is a top priority for mar- gressions and grievances can immediately What is your approach to issues man- keters in 2014. But is content marketing and publicly be aired, and spread like wild- agement? Transparency doesn’t only apply real estate; privacy/cybersecurity; venture capital; government affairs; the solution? fire. to good news; there’s workplace; social media; aviation; project finance; antitrust; Supreme Court Content marketing is far from a new The risk to reputation is unprecedented. sure to be bad news concept in the professional services world. But so is the opportunity to capitalize on a too. Widening access The marketing focus has long been on sell- first-mover advantage and compete on to information will ing the intellectual capital of the company, transparency. require companies to Competing on transparency • Thought leadership; brand positioning; service line launches; important creating and publishing content that puts act swiftly and with their subject matter expertise on display The lines are blurring between public integrity to protect the lateral hires; crisis counsel; effective expert sourcing; editorial services and generates opportunities for lead gener- and private, and professional and personal. reputation of their ation and engagement. Everyone wants more access to informa- organization. It’s cru- But, today’s buyers have grown numb to tion and companies that treat customers cial that companies staid content marketing programs. There’s like individuals through good times and have an issues man- Cortney Stapleton now more content than ever competing for bad. Marketers that think proactively about agement chart or crisis mindshare from consumers who have an transparency and work it into their strategic plan in place to navi- average attention span of eight seconds, a plans can create a true marketing edge for gate choppy waters, Contact: second less than the average goldfish. their organization. while maintaining their While content is still king of profession- Here are four questions to consider when promise of transparen- Allan Ripp — 212.262.7477 al services marketing, there is a new chal- evaluating your Corporate Transparency cy to the market. lenger to the throne: transparency. Responsibility (CTR) platform: Marketers have [email protected] Transparency is quickly becoming a What does your organization stand long encouraged open competitive battleground for professional for? It’s more critical than ever that com- and honest communi- services organizations. Regulatory bodies panies clearly articulate their values and cations; the difference Aven James are mandating it, employees are asking for ensure they are actively embraced as part now is that customers it and customers have come to expect it. of their corporate culture. Sincerity is cru- and stakeholders are Few professional services organizations cial in the age of transparency. Integrity demanding it. And they have more are doing an excellent job of it. For mar- and ethics must be demonstrated through avenues for digging up information and keters, it represents a new and compelling company actions. Organizations must airing their complaints. Transparency is a opportunity to create a competitive edge operationalize their company values to true cultural mindset, but marketing can for their organization. ensure they guide how customers, talent help steer the conversation and has the What’s driving the movement? and ideas are nurtured. most visible role in defining what that Many of the largest regulatory develop- Do you clearly communicate your means for their organizations. Professional media ments in recent history have been geared organization’s values? Marketing’s job is services firms that turn a blind eye to cries toward protecting shareholders and other to effectively deliver its organization’s val- for transparency risk dire consequences — Ripp stakeholders by creating a clearer line of ues and meaning to the marketplace. To do and the proof will be evident in the bottom 1776 Broadway, Suite 901 sight to organizations and their business so, those values, integrity and ethics should line. practices. Sarbanes-Oxley, Dodd Frank be evident in behavior and translated into Cortney Stapleton is Partner at Bliss New York, NY 10019 and the Affordable Care Act are all exam- compelling messages for both internal and Integrated Communication. Aven James is ples of major legislation that mandate external communications. VP at Bliss Integrated Communication. £

38 AUGUST 2014 4 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 39

media Ripp Delivering strategic, high-impact media relations since 1986

• Legal affairs/litigation/law firms; financial & professional services

• Specialized practice areas and capabilities: M&A; capital markets; private equity; securities and white collar; intellectual property; real estate; privacy/cybersecurity; venture capital; government affairs; workplace; social media; aviation; project finance; antitrust; Supreme Court

• Thought leadership; brand positioning; service line launches; important lateral hires; crisis counsel; effective expert sourcing; editorial services

Contact: Allan Ripp — 212.262.7477 [email protected]

media Ripp 1776 Broadway, Suite 901 New York, NY 10019 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 40

FEATURE How human resources companies can use Twitter Participating in a two-way dialogue is a familiar public relations goal. With the Internet rapidly becoming the de facto forum for conversations, it’s important to remember where your audience chat on topic and ignite conversation around five to 10 predetermined questions is receiving its information. As the world transitions to online on the subject. Twitter chats are a great media — including social media — how can PR professionals way to be seen as a thought leader, men- continue to achieve these traditional goals for traditional tion potential services and network with businesses such as HR companies? an enthusiastic group of people or organi- zations in the HR industry. By Sarah Chollar If an HR company is unsure of how it could participate in a hashtag. This organizational symbol is the chat, the brand he most important thing to remem- theme of a tweet and can be clicked on to should lurk and ber about social media is you should see other similarly-themed tweets. Most observe. Then, as it Tnot try to, nor expect to, reach the Twitter users include a hashtag on a regu- becomes more com- masses. Social media, especially Twitter, lar basis. When they are searching for a fortable, it can par- is about connecting with others on an indi- particular subject, they can also search ticipate in the chats vidual basis. HR companies should look using the symbol. Some popular hashtags and start conversa- into the different social platforms and to think about when you are recruiting are tions with enthusi- decide which one(s) would work best to #recruiting, #jobs or #hiring. However, asts as well as con- support their marketing communications don’t use too many different hashtags nect with industry Sarah Chollar plan. For HR companies, a multi-platform when recruiting, or the message of the peers. Programs strategy will ensure the company is con- tweet will get lost. such as TweetChat, necting with different target demographics An additional benefit of the hashtag is TweetDeck or TweetGrid make it easy to while consistently speaking on the compa- tailoring recruitment messages by geogra- follow the conversation because they ny’s message. Twitter, for instance, may phy or desired skill. For example, if update in real-time. Indicators such as Q1 be a great tool for many HR companies. searching to fill positions in the Dallas- and A1 are used to specify questions and While Twitter is great for pushing out Fort Worth area, use #DFWjobs. answers throughout the chat. Some recom- brand messaging, HR companies can ben- Likewise, if you are looking to build out a mended chats for HR companies include efit from Twitter in other ways besides marketing department, #MarketingJobs, #TChat hosted by TalentCulture, promotion: recruiting, gaining insights, #AdvertisingJobs or #PRJobs may be Wednesdays at 6 p.m. CST and #TalentNet participating in Twitter chats and collabo- good hashtags to use. You can even tailor each Wednesday at 8 p.m. CST. Be sure to rating with other HR professionals. Each your recruitment tweets to a certain group observe each of these chats before jump- of these tactics builds upon the others and of people. For example, there is a current ing in the conversation! can be used to further engage HR compa- campaign specifically to #HireVets. The Collaborating with HR Professionals. nies with their audiences. different types and uses of hashtags are Social media helps connect companies Recruiting. Twitter is a wonderful tool endless, but the end results will be tailored with individuals. As the HR company for recruiting because of the use of the to a certain audience. becomes well acquainted with industry Gaining Insights. The hashtag feature professionals, the company will be able to PR News Briefs is also an easy way to find industry news interact and engage with them on a more and happenings for self-education or pro- human level. Tweeting at a specific per- Publicis acquires sustainability fessional development. For example, #HR son, replying to questions and participat- shop for MSLGroup will lead to numerous tweets about the HR ing in discussions can all lead to more industry including industry news, future engagement with users. This engagement Publicis Groupe has acquired London-based sus- tainability communications shop Salterbaxter with Twitter chats and industry life. In grade and collaboration can lead to more discus- plans to align the firm under MSLGroup. school, we were taught to share, and the sions, recruitment or industry news. The Salterbaxter’s 70 staffers have handled corporate same principle applies to social media. more the other three tactics are used, the social responsibility reports, strategy and PR efforts Well-mannered social users share others’ more collaboration and engagement for clients like Adidas, Maersk, L’Oreal, LEGO, and GlaxoSmithKline, among others. content. Feel free to retweet interesting between individuals and the company will MSLGroup EMEA President Anders Kempe said content or reply with questions and com- happen. clients are looking for advisors to help them develop ments. These tweets should not focus on Twitter can be a valuable tool for con- strategies as issues like transparency and social pur- the individual’s HR company, but on the necting HR companies to individuals — pose increasingly shape how businesses operate. industry itself. not the masses. Recruiting, gaining Nigel Salter and Penny Baxter remain CEO and Managing Director as the firm becomes Salterbaxter Participating in Twitter Chats. Twitter insights, participating in Twitter chats and MSLGroup. chats are a way for people to connect and collaborating with HR professionals all Salter, who takes the EMEA lead for MSL’s corpo- discuss a topic of choice at a designated build upon one another to increase two- rate and brand citizenship practice, said global inter- time while following a particular hashtag. way communication through social media est in sustainability has given his firm the chance to scale its offerings, adding that MSL’s geographic and These chats are usually held midday or in and further public relations goals. client base will fuel growth. the afternoon. Most are conducted by an Sarah Chollar is PR Coordinator at expert panelist and moderator to keep the M/C/C in Dallas. £

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How human resources companies can use Twitter How impact litigation, communications create change A recent groundbreaking education equality case shows how ture violate a Constitutional right. The court is the only venue to achieve this, so giving impact litigation — when coupled with communications — can be these students a voice in court and sharing an efficient and effective driver of reform. By Felix Schein and Hillary Moglem their experience were essential in ensuring that change takes root. trators feel helpless, and allows the needs of Thousands of articles have been written n June, history was made in a California our students to inevitably fall through the about Vergara, and the editorial boards of courtroom. Nine school-aged children, cracks. all of California’s major newspapers — as Iwho bravely told their stories to a Los As a result, the case was embraced by a well as the New York Times, Wall Street Angeles Superior Court, successfully broad coalition of parents, students, teach- Journal, USA Today, and Washington Post, defeated laws entrenched in California’s ers, administrators, and educational experts among others — have come out in support Education Code that deprive students of across the country committed to striking of the court’s ruling. Now that we have seen their fundamental right to an equal educa- down state laws that put adult privileges the facts in a court of law, and heard about tion. These laws, found unconstitutional in above children’s rights. The vast majority the outrage of a system that is failing our the trial Vergara v. California, make it of the state’s editorial boards came out in kids, momentum is growing to build the extremely difficult to remove ineffective support of the lawsuit, putting our oppo- education system that our students need and teachers from California’s nents on the defensive before the trial even deserve. classrooms, detracting from the overriding began. Now after the Vergara ruling, we’re in a purpose of the education system: to serve Some said a courtroom is not the place to different world from two years ago when the best interests of students. As presiding change education policy, and that these the case was first filed. It’s partly due to the Judge Rolf M. Treu found, “[t]he evidence matters should be left to the legislature. We positive outcome in the case, but we would is compelling. Indeed, it shocks the con- remind those critics that the nine kids who also argue that it has something to do with science.” joined as plaintiffs in Vergara didn’t have the amplification of the voices of nine Besides demolishing decades of status lobbyists to compete for their interest with California school children and the informed quo and inaction in the California legisla- legislators. In fact, when the case was filed environment that has been created as a ture, this feat is groundbreaking in that the more than two years ago, none of these kids result of the public communications efforts trial itself — not the ruling — has already were old enough to vote. Moreover, as with around the lawsuit. had a significant impact on California’s every past battle for civil rights, litigation is Felix Schein is President at RALLY, and education system. The stories these students necessary when laws enacted by the legisla- Hillary Moglen is Principal at RALLY. £ shared, and the evidence presented at trial, have driven a nationwide discussion on the morality of having a system that consistent- ly fails its students. This is the result of impact litigation: lawsuits that are designed to change and tell the story of a failing sys- tem. We’ve discovered that impact litigation coupled with communications can be an effective driver of change. It’s disruptive, cutting through the noise and politics and allowing the facts to surface. As we saw with Vergara v. California, public school students and their parents were given a voice, both in court and in the court of pub- lic opinion. For the Vergara v. California lawsuit, our firm worked with the nonprofit organiza- tion Students Matter to build a communica- tions campaign before, during, and after the trial. The communications and advoca- cy campaign leveraged the lawsuit as a plat- form to reframe the debate around educa- tional reform. We used media platforms to communi- cate complex legal matters and bring atten- tion to an issue that has had little traction in the legislature over the last three decades. This outreach and public education cam- paign made clear that the current system of dysfunction treats teachers as nothing more than a number, makes parents and adminis-

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O’Dwyer’s guide to: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Nicki Gibbs, VP makes our programs more precise ALLISON + Ayme Zemke, VP and our impact more meaning- ful. Our clients include some of PARTNERS Beehive PR, based in the most respected names in con- Minneapolis/St. Paul, is a strate- sulting, accounting and legal 71 Fifth Avenue, 7th Floor gic communications agency with communities. Most consider us a New York, NY 10003 a reputation for fresh insights, big true extension of their team as we 212/302-5460 ideas, contagious energy and bril- provide a broad range of func- liant results. Our team of senior Scott Allison, CEO tional expertise - strategy, brand- Jonathan Heit, President and strategists and savvy specialists ing, marketing, PR, content Senior Partner are focused on creating bold, pos- development, digital media, crisis Matthew Della Croce, Senior itive growth for our clients. We communication and analytics. Partner, Head of Corporate start with your business goals. What sets us apart is our strategic Practice Then we design game-changing approach to communication and strategies to reach the right audi- our unwavering commitment to Allison+Partners is an award ences with the right content, our clients’ success. winning, full-service agency that where and when it matters most. is small enough to be agile and We’re experts in research and BOARDROOM large enough to have impact. Our insights, brand positioning and motto is, “it’s about the work.” We campaigns, social media, media COMMUNICATIONS promise our clients the best cross- and influencer relations, educa- disciplinary teams and senior-level tion and advocacy, sponsorships INC. involvement on every account. and events, and crisis communi- Allison+Partners’ entrepreneur- cations. 1776 N. Pine Island Road, #320 ial culture encourages calculated Our team has wide-ranging Fort Lauderdale, FL 33322 risk-taking and blazing new trails. expertise serving professional 954/370-8999 We live to explore, question, and www.boardroompr.com services firms in industries [email protected] experiment with new ideas. We including legal, financial servic- love to create programs that excite es, insurance, advertising and people to interact with concepts, Offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, marketing, commercial real Orlando and Tampa, Florida products, and one another. We estate, and trade and professional work with clients that share those associations. From branding to values. Don Silver, COO mergers and acquisitions to regu- Julie Talenfeld, President The Allison+Partners Corporate latory issues, product introduc- Practice has deep expertise build- tions and executive visibility, For the past 25 years, ing professional services brands. Beehive understands the unique We provide broad expertise in Boardroom Communications has needs and challenges of profes- been a market leader in represent- B2B marketing, reputation man- sional services clients. agement, executive thought lead- ing many of Florida’s top law, ership, crisis and issues manage- accounting, insurance and finan- ment, corporate sustainability and BLISS INTEGRATED cial firms. Whether publicizing a high-profile plaintiff’s lawsuit, Boardroom Communications financial communications. We COMMUNICATION COO Don Silver, and President have helped establish thought handling a public or legislative Julie Talenfeld. leadership positions for companies affairs campaign or working ranging from the world’s leading Member of the WorldCom Public closely with many of the area’s Relations Group top boutique and full service law accounting firms to management Boardroom is on the forefront of 500 5th Avenue, Suite 300 firms for media relations and new consulting start-ups. Our experi- developing and managing client New York, NY 10110 business development, ence includes working with websites, blogs and social media 212/840-1661 Boardroom is the name that accounting, law, HR solutions, Fax: 212/840-1663 and providing search-engine opti- comes up time and time again. management consulting, architec- www.blissintegrated.com mization (SEO) services that pro- In addition to fielding one of ture, engineering and marketing vide the competitive edge they the state’s most experienced solutions. Elizabeth Sosnow, Managing are looking for. Allison+Partners has 17 offices Partner staffs, Boardroom is known for strategically located around the Meg Wildrick, Managing Partner its established relationships with Cortney Stapleton, Partner COOPERKATZ & world to serve our clients’ global the media as well as influential communications needs. To learn business, civic and community CO., INC. more about how we can help you, Bliss Integrated Communication leaders. visit www.allisonpr.com. (blissintegrated.com) is a 39-year The firm’s approach is to pro- old business-to-business marketing vide customized solutions for 205 Lexington Avenue, 5th Floor New York, NY 10016 communication firm that helps professional services clients that www.cooperkatz.com BEEHIVE PR professional services companies dovetail with their individual build reputation and sales through objectives and cultures. Our Ralph Katz, Principal 1021 Bandana Blvd. E., Suite 226 thought leadership, analytics and opportunistic approach and cre- Anne Green, President / CEO St. Paul, MN 55108-5112 earned, owned and social media. ativity have enabled us to consis- 651/789-2232 Our starting-points are goals and tently distinguish our profession- CooperKatz has extensive Fax: 651/789-2230 audiences, not tactics, and we see als and their firms from the com- www.beehivepr.biz experience supporting profes- ourselves as pioneers in idea rich petition. sional services organizations, Lisa Hannum, CEO content marketing. This approach In terms of new media, including management consult-

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ants, industry analysts, research opment, addressing a full range of organizations and trade associa- strategic and tactical needs. tions. The firm offers a unique We’re the place to go for out- integration of marketing, public sourced corporate communica- affairs, digital/social and creative tions. We have a reputation for services capabilities to support responsiveness and accountabili- clients in: developing thought ty, and for getting it right first leadership programs; executing time out. We take work off our research; providing high-level clients’ plates, extend their PR or media training; connecting communications teams, and build experts with timely issues; devel- enduring relationships based on oping content marketing strate- the quality and timeliness of gies; securing op-eds, bylines and everything we produce. speaking opportunities; conceiv- Based in Los Angeles, the ing and leading digital/social EdgeWise team supports clients media strategies; and designing throughout the United States and presentations, meetings, events, Canada. videos, trade advertising and col- lateral materials. Our professional FEINTUCH services experience has included engagements for such clients as: COMMUNICATIONS American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA); 245 Park Ave., 39th Fl. American Society of Composers, New York, NY 10167 Authors and Publishers 212/808-4900 [email protected] (ASCAP); Association of www.feintuchcommunications.com National Advertisers (ANA); www.PRWorldAlliance.com Capgemini Health; Gap International; Guardian Life Henry Feintuch, President Insurance Company; Jackson Richard Anderson, Senior Hewitt Tax Service; Millward Managing Director Brown; National Association of Insurance Commissioners Looking for senior hands-on (NAIC); Nielsen Media support and demonstrated ROI Research; Noblis Health for your professional services Innovation; Siegel+Gale; organization ... but not big Henry Feintuch, President of Feintuch Communications. Strategic Funding Source; agency overhead? TowerGroup and TowersPerrin. Feintuch Communications is a boutique, b-to-b firm with EDGEWISE extensive experience in work- ing with professional services advise them on how to generate firms and associations from FINN PARTNERS visibility for their programs, cre- 5419 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 727 C legal, accounting, real estate ate innovative digital platforms Los Angeles, CA 90027 often driven by our in-house 323/469-3397 and technology to market (incorporating Widmeyer research, advertising, media Communications) Research and Polling unit, posi- Fax: 323/645-7054 tion them as thought leaders in www.edgewise.us.com buying, production services and 301 East 57th Street Ken Greenberg, Principal more. New York, NY 10022 their specialty areas and help Sara Flint, Vice President We work with you to help www.finnpartners.com them think through how to package the core essence of expand their customer base. , Senior In 2012, Edge Communications, your offering and what makes Richard Funess In our work for professional Managing Partner services clients, we work as a Inc. launched EdgeWise you a standout in your field. Scott Widmeyer, Managing (www.edgewise.us.com), an affili- Then, we develop a smart and Partner team with the client to bring the ated practice focused exclusively cost-effective marketing strate- highest level of on writing and content services. gy to help build your brand and For Finn Partners and its collaboration. Our focus is on EdgeWise draws on the talent of generate leads/revenue. Tactics recent acquisition, Widmeyer results. That’s why, you will see senior writers and journalists to typically include strategic Communications, professional our clients showing up as pre- develop publishable content for media relations (business, services comes naturally. From senters at a Wall Street Journal businesses large and small. We financial, trade), speaking plat- our 7 US locations (New York, forum on the future of health help organizations tell their sto- forms, social media, association Washington, Chicago, Detroit, care or speaking about early ries in a compelling way, crafting marketing and awards/honors Los Angeles, San Francisco and childhood issues at a gathering messages for any number of audi- programs. Fort Lauderdale), as well as of scores of media who cover ences: customers, prospects, FC is a founding member of London and Jerusalem, our team education. And, if it’s a con- employees, investors, senior PR World Alliance, an interna- of 300-plus professionals pro- sumer trade show or positioning management, consumers and the tional alliance of premier inde- vide top-line strategic communi- on a major morning or evening media. Our writing services are pendent communications con- cations to more than 50 clients news program, it’s highly likely offered on a sustaining basis or sultancies. Clients can leverage in the professional services that our team had a hand in it. per project, and can augment our network to implement proj- space. So, think about adding us to ongoing communications efforts. ects in South America, Europe, Our client base ranges from your professional services team EdgeWise isn’t a content farm. Asia and Africa. Our principal the top US foundations to lead- in the future. It will be a strate- We are, instead, committed to is vice chair of PRWA and 2014 ing non-profits as well as gic investment garnering out- custom and original copy devel- president of PRSA-NY. Fortune 100 companies. We standing results.

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with leading and emerging Our knowledge in financial [email protected] KONNECT PUBLIC brands in the most demanding services, insurance, real estate, 310/405-0343 industry sectors around the healthcare, technology, energy RELATIONS world. We were founded in and other industries informs our Bicoastal integrated market- 1995 by a former journalist and work for professional services ing and communications firm, 888 S. Figueroa St., Ste 1000 now have more than 500 con- clients through on-target insight Marketing Maven Public Los Angeles, CA 90017 sultants working in more than when addressing top issues and Relations, is an extension of 213/988-8344 28 offices across the US, EMEA key vertical markets. many companies’ marketing Fax: 213/988-8345 and Asia Pacific. We provide clients with departments. The Marketing www.konnect-pr.com LEWIS’ US presence strategic communications coun- Maven team executes B2B includes more than 150 employ- sel, issues and crisis manage- campaigns by providing inven- Sabina Gault, CEO tive solutions, metrics and Monica Guzman, COO ees in San Francisco, Boston, ment, media relations and other San Diego and Washington, integrated communications unique online and offline Konnect Public Relations is a D.C. The agency is independent services. We are sought out for methodologies giving clients a full-service, award-winning PR and partner-owned. We have our breakthrough thought lead- competitive edge to increase agency based in Los Angeles delivered highly proactive cam- ership campaigns that position their revenue. that executes results-producing paigns for numerous innovative clients as leaders with influ- Professional Services cam- campaigns for food and bever- brands and technology pioneers, encers and decision makers paigns include a brand audit, age, baby and children and fran- to shift perceptions, create new through both traditional and website copy consultation, chise brands. Comprised of a categories and build new market digital media channels. organic Search Engine dedicated team of experienced leaders. An Inc. 5000 growth compa- Optimization strategy and exe- publicists, the agency delivers Aside from traditional PR and ny, Makovsky was honored in cution, industry speaking sub- ROI-driven strategies and tac- media relations services, includ- 2013 with an unprecedented 28 missions, award submissions tics that cater to the specific ing tactics such as analyst rela- client campaign, firm and indi- and connections with other needs of clients and their target tions, media training, award and vidual awards, including multi- industry influencers. Media customer. Konnect PR’s hands- speaker programs, our in-house ple “Agency of the Year” relations services include media on approach makes it an invalu- digital marketing team, LEWIS awards. In 2014, we have pitching, interview coordina- able partner in meeting larger Pulse, delivers integrated Web already won 13 awards includ- tion, media clip tracking and company goals that contribute marketing and content market- ing the PRSA Big Apple, for our byline article submissions to to growth. Services include: ing campaigns for clients. work on behalf of a leading industry trade publications, national and in-market media Our digital marketing servic- financial services client. And positioning our clients as expert relations, event planning, social es include branding and strate- now in its third year, sources. media support, crisis communi- gy, creative services, design and Makovsky’s “Wall Street With offices in Los Angeles cations, brand management, production, Web development, Reputation Study,” has won the and New York, we serve clients celebrity/influencer seeding, marketing automation imple- 2014 Stevie Gold Award for nationwide with a focus on sur- etc. Clients include Dave & mentations and management, Innovation in PR and the 2014 passing their goals and helping Buster’s, Fatburger, Menchie’s, social media marketing, social PR World Gold Award. Other them achieve a positive ROI The Goddard School, Nestlé media advertising, search accolades have included a full with useful, meaningful cam- Waters North America, Nautica, engine optimization and search complement of Silver Anvils, paign metrics. Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline engine marketing. Sabre Awards, and IABC Park, Babiators, Lakeshore Awards. MARX LAYNE & Learning, KRAVE Jerky and MAKOVSKY Headquartered in New York, CO. many more. For more informa- Makovsky has global reach tion visit www.konnect-pr.com 16 East 34th Street through IPREX, a partnership of more than 100 offices, $800 31420 Northwestern Highway New York, NY 10016 Suite 100 LEWIS PR 212/508-9600 million in billings and nearly 2,000 professionals founded by Farmington Hills, MI 48334 [email protected] 248/855-6777 ext. 105 www.makovsky.com Makovsky. It today stands as 575 Market St., Suite 1200 [email protected] the second largest worldwide www.marxlayne.com San Francisco, CA 94105 Ken Makovsky, President & corporation of independent 415/432-2400 CEO agencies. , President Fax: 415/432-2401 Scott Tangney, EVP, Financial Michael Layne www.lewispr.com Services Practice Leader Mike Goodwin, SVP MARKETING Marx Layne & Co. has a long Chris Lewis, CEO & Founder John McInerney, GVP MAVEN PUBLIC and successful track record of James Oehlcke, CFO positioning professional servic- Morgan McLintic, Executive VP, US Makovsky is an integrated RELATIONS es firms as industry leaders in Andres Witterman, Executive communications firm with more their respective sectors. VP, EMEA & APAC than 35 years of experience For more than twenty-five designing and executing com- 135 W. 29th Street, Suite 302 Lucy Allen, Executive VP & New York, NY 10001 years, our experienced account CSO, US munications programs for a 212/967-5510 executives have launched Yvonne van Bokhoven, Senior wide array of professional serv- [email protected] results focused communications VP, Western Europe ices clients. Organizations www.marketingmavenpr.com campaigns for attorneys, Andy Oliver, Senior VP, APAC including management consult- accountants, financial institu- , Senior VP, global Stephen Corsi ants, law firms, executive Lindsey Carnett, CEO & digital mktg. tions, financial planners, turn- search firms, accountants, President Sarah Robinson, Global Talent around-managers, architects advertising firms, etc. benefit [email protected] and engineers. Our proven abil- Director 310/994-7380 , Global from Makovsky’s all-star spe- ity to exceed client expectations Sarah Aitchison Phil Rarick, COO Operations Director cialized team delivering [email protected] has earned us a reputation as a markedly better results than the 310/405-0345 valued partner to our clients. LEWIS PR is a global com- generalist communications con- Natalie Rucker, VP of Business With our depth of experience, munications agency, working sultancy. Development we combine the most effective

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marketing strategies to help Since 1996, Kassy Perry and professional service providers PADILLACRT her award-winning team have had build brand equity and reputa- a profound impact on society tion, sell services, enhance with nationally-recognized cam- 1101 West River Parkway, #400 credibility, and solidify rela- Minneapolis, MN 55415 paigns tackling pressing issues tionships with their clients, 612/455-1700 including land use, public health, referral sources, prospects, and www.padillacrt.com the environment, bullying pre- other stakeholders. vention, affordable housing, At Marx Layne & Company, Lynn Casey, CEO renewable energy, access to pre- , President we understand the subtle Mark Raper scription medicines, and mental Marian Briggs, Matt Kucharski, health. nuances and legal issues when Mike Mulvihill, Exec. VPs marketing professional servic- Brian Ellis, Tom Jollie, Kathy From managing policy issues, es. We are able to take our Burnham, Gregory Tarmin, leading high-profile coalitions clients’ complex messages and Dean Huff, Debbie Myers, Sr. VPs and campaigns, and conveying package them in concise for- Al Galgano, Janet Stacey, Amy our clients’ compelling stories to mats that are compelling to Epstein, Max Martens, VPs partnering with many of the print, broadcast, online and Jeff Thomas, CFO nation’s top companies, we social media. Importantly, we Kelly O’Keefe, CCO achieve success and build influ- Patrice Tanaka, Chief Counselor ence through strong relationships have demonstrated, time after Michael Whitlow, Chief Growth time, that successful position- Officer with policymakers, media, regu- Amy Fathers, SVP of Prosek ing can generate new business lators, and corporate leaders Partners’ Professional Services around the world. and retain existing clients for PadillaCRT is one of the top 10 Practice. professional service firms. independent agencies in the coun- Current clients include: Bonnie We reach our clients’ targeted try. The firm helps clients engage J. Addario Lung Cancer audiences through highly credi- and inspire stakeholders in health Foundation, California Automotive ble means beyond paid adver- care, food and beverage, con- Wholesaler’s Association, Children board members and senior leader- tising. Our professional servic- sumer goods, financial services, Now, NAMI California, ship at companies to position es firm clients retain us to posi- manufacturing, technology, and Partnership to Fight Chronic them as thought leaders within tion them as experts, to gener- agribusiness. PadillaCRT has Disease, Pharmaceutical Research their fields. Our professional ate feature profiles in leading specialized talent in branding, & Manufacturers of America. services clients rely on us to business media, to ghostwrite research, corporate and investor deliver top-notch strategic coun- article submissions for profes- relations, creative, digital, crisis PROSEK sel and creative thinking that sional trade publications, and to management, and social media, enables them to increase positive coordinate high-profile inter- and is a founding partner of the PARTNERS perception of their companies and views in leading newspapers, Worldcom Group, a partnership executives in the marketplace. magazines, radio, and TV news of 100 independently owned 105 Madison Ave., 7th Flr. Our team has an outstanding formats, locally, regionally and offices in 133 cities on six conti- New York, NY 10016 track record of delivering results nationally. nents. 212/279-3115 that positively impact our clients’ From individual practitioners Professional Services clients Fax: 212/279-3117 include Dorsey & Whitney, businesses. to large international firms, our www.prosek.com For more information about clients are positioned through Enterprise Ireland, Rasmussen Media Group, Linhart Public Prosek Partners visit www.pros- strategic initiatives including: Amy Fathers, SVP of ek.com. local, national and international Relations, Redpath & Co., Professional Services Practice media relations campaigns; KellenAdams Public Affairs, media training and messaging; IDA Ireland, Jewelers Mutual Prosek Partners is among the QUINN article/editorial ghostwriting Insurance Company, Grant largest independent public rela- and submission; website writ- Thornton LLP, Grotefeld tions firms in the U.S., and one of 520 8th Avenue ing, design and optimization; Hoffmann Schleiter Gordon & the few domestic, mid-size firms New York, NY 10018 email campaigns; social media Ochoa, Golder Associates, that offers global capabilities 212/868-1900 and online reputation manage- Camelott LLC, Gray Plant Mooty through its London office and www.quinn.pr ment; planning and implemen- and several that remain confiden- international network. tial. Specializing in providing a full 407 Lincoln Road, Suite 10-H tation of seminars; direct mail Miami Beach, FL 33139 campaigns; design, writing and range of communications solu- 786/600-3954 printing of brochures and PERRY tions to financial and professional newsletters. services companies, the firm Florence Quinn, President, And Marx Layne does all of COMMUNICATIONS delivers an unexpected level of [email protected] this while continuing to respect GROUP passion, creativity and marketing Lara Berdine, SVP, Real Estate, the correlation between dollars savvy. [email protected] , SVP, Real spent by our professional serv- Prosek Partners’ Professional Greg McGunagle 980 9th Street, Suite 410 Services Practice is focused on Estate, [email protected] ice firm clients and results. Sacramento, CA 95814 Jim Lee, SVP, Miami Office, 916/658-0144 delivering industry-leading PR [email protected] Fax: 916/658-0155 programs that help clients, rang- Facebook: @WeAreQuinn www.perrycom.com ing from law firms and manage- LinkedIn: @QuinnPR The September issue of O’Dwyer’s will pro- ment consultancies to executive Twitter: @QuinnPR_ file PR firms that specialize in beauty, Kassy Perry, President/CEO recruiting firms and innovation Quinn is a lifestyle public rela- fashion and lifestyle. companies, build their brands and Perry Communications Group drive business. tions agency with global impact. If you would like your firm to be listed, is an independent, full-service Prosek prides itself on the Our disciplined, strategic contact Editor Jon Gingerich at 646/843- strategic communications firm quality, skills and deep experi- approach to PR has built some of 2080 or [email protected] specializing in public relations ence of our team. We understand Continued on page 46 and public affairs. how to work directly with CEOs, 0

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PROFILES OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FIRMS

Lisa Ross, President Tina Elmowitz, Executive VP REGAN John Quinn, Executive VP COMMUNICATIONS rbb is a marketing communi- cations firm and four-time GROUP Agency of the Year with a repu- tation for continually delivering 106 Union Wharf results to its clients through Boston, MA 02109 award-winning campaigns. The 617/488-2800 www.regancomm.com agency’s staff understands the [email protected] intricacies of working with national and regional profession- Regan Communications Group al service clients in the account- is the largest privately-held pub- ing, legal, banking, human lic relations firm in New England resources, logistics and real and the 9th largest privately- estate industries. owned public relations firm in the The firm is recognized for cre- country. Founded in 1984, Regan ating programs that blend cre- is a full service public relations ativity with traditional and social and integrated marketing firm media to support business goals, with offices in Boston, New position corporate leadership as York, Providence, Cape Cod, industry experts and thought Hartford and West Palm Beach. leaders, and enhance brand We offer our clients a full awareness through strategic part- range of public relations, market- nerships and community initia- ing, social media, advertising and tives. video production services. Our By staying deeply connected staff comes from diverse back- with its clients and the news grounds in media, public rela- cycle, rbb regularly secures tions, marketing, government and national media opportunities for the corporate world, which pro- its roster of professional service vides us with a well-rounded per- clients. For a top 50 accounting spective in understanding your firm, rbb has helped showcase business, achieving your commu- partners’ expertise through recur- nications objectives and deliver- ring writing opportunities with ing the exposure you want. Bloomberg BusinessWeek and Are you looking for a feature 50 West, a Quinn client and Francis Greenburger’s dazzling condo- Fox Business, and adds value by minium tower rises in Manhattan’s New Downtown. “They will sell story in a national publication? A providing counsel for interviews regional publicity blitz? A social out fast,” NYT. “Another milestone in the rebirth of lower and individualized marketing Manhattan,” WSJ. “Lower Manhattan condos rival midtown’s luxu- media campaign that has your plans for practice leaders. A top product, organization or service ry skyscrapers,” Bloomberg. “A glimpse at the glittering 50 West, Florida law firm has seen its the talk of Facebook and Twitter? set to spice up downtown,” Haute Residence. executives included in stories in How about a creative video that national business outlets includ- tells your story with wit and ing The Wall Street Journal, ble. Our innovative initiatives, style? Regan Communications is QUINN Forbes and Barron’s as a result singular in our ability to provide which are recognized globally, of rbb’s creative pitching and Continued from page 45 have resulted in a number of all of these integrated services for 0 knowledge of what reporters you — and more. industry “firsts.” seek. And helping to launch a We believe there is magic to be new homeowner insurance prod- found at the intersection of cre- uct, the agency took advantage of RIPP MEDIA the largest audiences in the world. ative thinking and value-driven timely industry reports to secure We develop creative strategies strategies. Many of the world’s opportunities with the New York 1776 Broadway, Suite 901 that build the reputations, tell the most recognized brands believe Times and CNBC. New York, NY 10019 stories, and grow the businesses that as well. That’s why compa- As the Champion of Breakout 212/262-7477 (RIPP) of real estate and design nies like Brodsky, Douglas Brands, rbb’s multicultural staff [email protected] brands. With offices in New York Elliman, Forest City, Glenwood, delivers award-winning creativi- Allan Ripp, Principal and Miami and affiliates world- Jamestown Properties, LeFrak, ty, media relations, strategic Waldorf Astoria, Etihad Airways John Garger and Joshua wide, we serve clients in Travel, counsel, launch campaigns, digi- Spivak, Senior Directors Real Estate, Spa, Experiences and and The Ritz Carlton Residences tal media, content creation, repu- choose Quinn. Retail as well as Food, Wine & tation management and Ripp Media is an established, Spirits. results/analytics. In addition to boutique press relations agency We work collaboratively to RBB PUBLIC professional services, other spe- in New York City with a concen- develop narrative-based ideation, RELATIONS cialty practices include consumer tration in legal affairs and profes- resulting in strategies that capture products/services, health, sports sional services. We maintain an the attention of today’s sophisti- & entertainment, travel & hospi- editorial-driven practice for cated consumer. We integrate 355 Alhambra Circle, Suite 800 tality, B2B and higher education. Miami, FL 33134 national and global professional multiple communication channels 305/448-7450 Find out how rbb can help your services firms seeking strategic, with partnerships, events and www.rbbpr.com brand break out by visiting ideation to produce work that is www.rbbpr.com or call rbb presi- 0Continued on page 48 highly effective — and measura- Christine Barney, CEO dent Lisa Ross at 305-448-7457.

46 AUGUST 2014 4 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM 4 ADVERTISING SECTION Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 47 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 48

PROFILES OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FIRMS

help our clients achieve measura- ported by a staff of public rela- non-profits as well as Fortune RIPP MEDIA ble growth. Through integrated tions, editorial, and communica- 100 companies. We advise them 0Continued from page 46 marketing strategies, we create tions professionals. on how to generate visibility for multiple brand touch points with their programs, create innovative customer and stakeholder audi- WIDMEYER digital platforms often driven by senior-level press counsel and ences while generating signifi- our in-house Research and execution of their most important cant awareness in converged COMMUNICATIONS Polling unit, position them as stories. media channels, including mar- thought leaders in their specialty Our client list includes many quee placements in publications A Finn Partners Company areas and help them think through top-tier law firms – corporate such as The Wall Street Journal, 301 East 57th Street how to expand their customer transaction, defense, plaintiffs — The New York Times, The New York, NY 10022 base. but we’ve also worked with lead- Huffington Post, ABC Nightline. www.widmeyer.com In our work for professional ing brands in hospitality, real Schneider Associates is a full- www.finnpartners.com services clients, we work as a estate development, financial service public relations firm spe- team with the client to bring the Richard Funess, Senior services/asset management, cializing in Launch Public highest level of ® Managing Partner media research, litigation finance, Relations . Clients include Scott Widmeyer, Managing collaboration. Our focus is on publishing and other sectors. We Cassidy Turley, MIT Sloan Partner results. That’s why, you will see regularly handle high-stakes liti- School of Management, Katz our clients showing up as presen- gation PR and crisis counsel. Graduate School of Business, For Finn Partners and its recent ters at a Wall Street Journal forum We offer superior writing and D’Amore-McKim School of acquisition, Widmeyer Comms., on the future of health care or editorial skills —– that includes Business at Northeastern professional services comes natu- speaking about early childhood helping clients write/place com- University, Spagnolo Gisness & rally. From our 7 US locations issues at a gathering of scores of mentary in The Wall Street Associates and the Boston (New York, Washington, media who cover education. And, Journal, New York Times, Forbes, Improvement District. Learn Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, if it’s a consumer trade show or MarketWatch, Businessweek, more: www.schneiderpr.com San Francisco and Fort positioning on a major morning or Reuters, The Deal, USA Today Lauderdale), as well as London evening news program, it’s highly and elsewhere. Our staff brings TAYLOR & and Jerusalem, our team of 300- likely that our team had a hand in backgrounds in journalism, law, plus professionals provide top- it. publishing and finance. COMPANY line strategic communications to So, think about adding us to We intentionally operate with a more than 50 clients in the profes- your professional services team in low agency profile, often acting 1024 South Robertson Blvd. sional services space. the future. It will be a strategic as in-house press office for Ste. 201 Our client base ranges from the investment garnering outstanding clients. And we pride ourselves on Los Angeles, CA 90035 top US foundations to leading results. £ our long-term retention record 310/247-1099 with clients, many of whom start- Fax: 310/247-8147 [email protected] ed as short-term projects. We are www.taylor-pr.com fearless, creative pitchers in pur- suit of high-impact results. Julie D. Taylor, Hon. AIA/LA, Principal/Founder SCHNEIDER Taylor & Company is a results- ASSOCIATES oriented public relations, market- ing, and communications firm Member of the Worldcom Public that creates and implements pro- Relations Group active public relations programs 2 Oliver Street, Suite 901 for clients involved in design, Boston, MA 02109 architecture, building, and fur- 617/536-3300 nishings. Founded in 1994 by www.schneiderpr.com Julie D. Taylor, Hon. AIA/LA, Joan Schneider, Chief Executive Taylor & Company’s mission is Officer & Founder to link creative design to the pub- Phil Pennellatore, President lic. Among the services Taylor & Successfully communicating Company provides are: strategic key messages to diverse audi- public relations, targeted media ences in the ever-changing digital outreach, image management, age is one of the biggest chal- marketing communications, web- lenges facing today’s corporate site development and writing, leaders. social media profiles. Schneider Associates has cre- Taylor has been professionally ated public relations and integrat- involved in public relations, mar- ed marketing communications keting, publishing, and design programs for hundreds of finan- since 1982. She started as a mag- cial services providers, law firms, azine editor, gaining first-hand commercial real estate brokers knowledge of editors’ needs and and developers, engineering and processes, and is the author of environmental firms, colleges three books on design, as well as and universities, private schools numerous articles. Taylor is the and nonprofit organizations. The Public Director on the American agency’s programs accelerate Institute of Architects National awareness and engagement, and Board of Directors. She is sup-

48 AUGUST 2014 4 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM 4 ADVERTISING SECTION Augmagazine_Layout 1 8/7/14 2:48 PM Page 49 O’DWYER’S RANKINGS TOP PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PR FIRMS

Firm Net Fees (2013) Firm Net Fees (2013)

1. 26. Edelman New York $90,476,533 Linhart Public Relations Denver 582,259

2. 27. Finn Partners New York 11,658,597 Standing Partnership St. Louis 569,560

3. 28. MWW New York 4,118,000 Perry Communications Group Sacramento 491,992

4. 29. Moore Communications Group 451,513 LEVICK Washington 3,751,644 Tallahassee

5. 30. Hope-Beckham 428,259 Allison+Partners San Francisco 3,500,000 Atlanta 31. 6. Public Communications Inc. Chicago 390,338 Peppercomm New York 3,339,852 32. 7. McNeely Pigott & Fox PR Nashville 353,481 Bliss Integrated Comm. New York 3,090,000 33. 8. Beehive PR St. Paul 351,399 rbb Public Relations Miami 2,889,416 34. 9. Kohnstamm Communications St. Paul 343,807 5W Public Relations New York 2,800,000 35. Jackson Spalding 339,370 10. Atlanta Zeno Group New York 2,648,013 36. Coyne PR 303,000 11. Parsippany, NJ Prosek Partners New York 2,642,500 37. Seigenthaler Public Relations Nashville 302,585 12. Rasky Baerlein Strategic Comms. Boston 2,379,536 38. Maccabee Minneapolis 278,624 13. Ripp Media/Public Relations New York 2,325,492 39. TransMedia Group Boca Raton 245,000 14. Regan Communications Group Boston 2,142,000 40. Weiss PR Baltimore 244,436 15. Konnect Public Relations 1,687,863 Los Angeles 41. PAN Boston 240,000 16. CooperKatz & Co. 1,623,504 New York 42. Rosica Paramus, NJ 176,322 17. French | West | Vaughan 1,415,775 Raleigh 43. Landis Communications San Francisco 175,000 18. 1,309,875 Schneider Associates Boston 44. Marketing Maven PR Camarillo, CA 131,662 19. Boardroom Communications Plantation, FL 1,000,000 45. Trevelino/Keller Atlanta 110,000 20. LEWIS San Francisco 896,000 46. Gregory FCA Ardmore, PA 100,000 21. Bendure Communications Middleburg, VA 723,439 47. LaunchSquad San Francisco 89,200 22. PadillaCRT 719,800 48. Minneapolis OCG PR Ft. Worth, TX 72,000

23. Makovsky 700,000 49. New York The Buzz Agency Delray Beach, FL 67,502

24. 675,000 50. IW Group West Hollywood Idea Grove Dallas 44,695 25. 51. L.C. Williams & Associates Chicago 601,914 Feintuch Communications New York 42,208

© Copyright 2014 The J.R. O'Dwyer Co. Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:47 PM Page 50

OPINION Professional Development E-mail pitch perfect By Fraser Seitel readers in and encourages them to email. Use the word “you” as much as learn more. Your challenge is to sepa- you can, as a proxy not only for the here is nothing worse for a PR rate your subject line from most of the reporter but, more important, for those professional than “cold call” spam that reporters receive. The sub- who read her blog or listen to his Tpitching via email, reaching out ject line should intrigue the reporter in broadcast. For example, “You may to a reporter you don’t know or haven’t some way, perhaps referencing an arti- know people who home school their worked with before. cle the reporter has previously written children, but did you know they may But we’re all forced to do it. or that directly concerns his interest well be getting their lesson plans from Complicating matters, journalists are area. For example, a subject line that home school guru Marcus Picard?” busy people — con- reads, “Real Estate Developer Personalization also means tailoring sumed by deadlines Manages Employees by Remote your email pitch to the interests or sub- and editors and Control,” might compel a real estate jects in which you know this particular hundreds of emails writer to read on into the body of the journalist has interest. from public rela- email, which, after all, is your objec- • Next, call for the sale. What this tions people just tive. means is, you need to suggest the like you. So how, in • Next, the body of the email must action that you are recommending the the face of such a start with a specific explanation of why reporter consider. For example, “An daunting process, do you’re writing. Be direct about why interview with Gustavo Merlo about Fraser P. Seitel has you make your you’ve chosen to write the reporter and his approach to fly fishing might give been a communications emails stand out and what you’ve got for her. For example, your readers just the impetus they need consultant, author and get read? Here’s “I’ve been reading your series on the to catch that elusive big one.” Always, teacher for 30 years. how: mating habits of birds, and thought you wrap up emails with a punchy state- He is the author of the • Compelling emails might be interested in talking with a ment, a leading question, or a call to Prentice-Hall text, The Practice of Public begin with com- different kind of ornithologist.” This action. And always indicate that you Relations. pelling subject lines. lets the reporter know your subject is will “call to see if this idea makes A subject line enti- right in his wheelhouse and your client sense to you.” And then, for gosh sakes tled, “News Release,” will entice no might be worth talking to. ... call! one. Rather, a good subject line draws • Next, personalize the body of the • Finally, sign your email with a pro- fessional signature, including all the information you think might be rele- vant for the reporter to check, if she is so inclined. Lead with your name, with an embedded link to your LinkedIn profile or other biography. Follow with your job title and company name; again, embed appropriate links. Finally, include your telephone num- ber(s), email address, and social media, blog, and article hyperlinks. Don’t overwhelm the reporter, but do recognize that he might want to check out a bit more biographical data to know with whom he is dealing. So pro- vide it for him. • Finally, finally, consider the timing of your email. Reporters usually arrive for work later than other people and stay later as well. The best time to send a reporter an email, therefore, is when that particular journalist is reviewing his inbox — usually first thing in the morning and afternoon, after lunch. It’s best, of course, to find out when a target reporter might be most amenable to email correspondence. That’s your job, because it’s your email, and you want it acted upon. After all, getting publicity results is why you’re getting paid. So start pitch- ing. £

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OPINION Financial Management

Mid year tax planning and more at the start and end of each trip (as well as By Richard Goldstein the date, destination, and purpose of the other information related to vehicle usage trip). The IRS does permit sampling in (personal or business) was included. On some situations. You are treated as having ince the year is more than half over, his Schedule A (used to deduct itemized adequate substantiation if you keep 2014 midyear tax planning seems deductions) for the year, he claimed a records for a representative portion of the Slike a good topic to review. So here deduction in excess of $20,000 in vehicle year and can demonstrate that the period goes. expenses, based on the standard mileage for which records are kept is representa- Auto Expenses rate, which the IRS disallowed for lack of tive of use for the entire year. Other tax planning: capital gains Leading the Travel Industry The reason auto expenses are discussed substantiation. The Tax Court agreed is many PR firm with the IRS, concluding that although he The ordinary federal income tax rates owners lease autos in had unreimbursed travel expenses related for 2014 will be the same as for 2013. For by Providing Professional their business name to his employment, he failed to follow the 2014, the top 39.6% rate affects taxpayers or reimburse employ- strict substantiation requirements of the with taxable income above $406,750 for ees for the use of Internal Revenue Code. The calendar singles, $457,600 for married joint-filers, Travel Services Since 1972 autos. It is difficult to used by the taxpayer, while contempora- $432,200 for heads of households, and sustain a deduction neous, did not sufficiently document the $228,800 for married filing separate for the use of a busi- business purpose of each business use of returns. Higher-income individuals can ness auto if the rules the truck. also be hit by the 0.9% Medicare tax and of substantiation are So what will fly with the IRS and Tax the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax Richard Goldstein not followed. A case Court? Regardless of whether you use the (NIIT), which can result in a higher-than- is a partner at in point is as follows. actual expense method or the standard advertised federal rate for 2014. Buchbinder Tunick & Company LLP, New Consider a recent Tax mileage allowance for your vehicle (or a Despite recent tax increases, the current York, Certified Public Court decision as a car that your employer provides you federal income tax environment remains Accountants. case in point. with), certain recordkeeping require- relatively favorable by historical stan- An individual, who ments apply. You must keep track of the dards. Time investment gains and losses was employed as an number of miles you drive each year for outside direct sales representative, used business, as well as the total miles driven For many individuals, the 2014 federal his truck to call upon customers. Per each year. You must also record the date tax rates on long-term capital gains will company policy, he was not reimbursed of the business mileage, the destination be 15%. For lower income taxpayers the for his expenses. To keep track of his of the business travel, and the business rate will be 0% and for higher income tax- truck expenses, he kept records in a cal- reason for the car expense. It is advisable payers 20%. The 20% rate affects taxpay- endar planner book by documenting his to maintain a daily log or diary in which ers with taxable income of $406,750 for truck’s expenses odometer readings at the you record the date, the destination, the singles, $457,600 for married couples, beginning and end of each month, but no business purpose of the trip, the number $432,200 for heads of households, and of miles driven, (use the odometer read- $228,800 for married individuals who file ing at the start and end of the trip), and separate returns. Higher income individu- • Business Travel Consultants PR News Briefs then total the miles for each trip. Be sure als can also be hit by the new 3.8% tax on American Apparel rescuer to note the odometer reading on January net investment income, which can result • Strategic Meetings Management 1 of each year or the day the car is placed in a 23.8% rate on long-term capital gains. tries on Weber Shandwick put in service. When evaluating investments that you • Government Travel Contractors Locations: Standard General, the New York hedge fund If you use the actual expense method, own, consider the tax impact of selling that inked a deal to bail out American Apparel on you must also keep a record of the costs appreciated securities. For most taxpay- North America July 9, has engaged Weber Shandwick for PR. of operating the car. These include the ers, the federal income tax rate on long- • Over 200 Offices Worldwide AA, which ousted Founder Dov Charney last cost of gasoline and oil, car insurance, term capital gains is still much lower than month, said SG would provide $25 million in Middle East financing in exchange for three board seats as the interest on the car (if you are self- the rate on short-term gains. Therefore, it • Competitive Online Booking apparel retailer replaces five of its seven board employed), licenses and taxes, and can make sense to hold appreciated secu- Europe seats, including Charney's. Both Charney and SG repairs and maintenance. rities for at least a year and a day before agreed to "standstill" and voting limitations limit- If you lease a car, you must keep track selling in order to qualify for the long- • One-on-One Travel Consultation ing their stakes and voting influence. Asia The pact, dubbed a "lifeline" by The New York of the amount of the lease payments, in term capital gain rates. Times, includes a commitment to keep making AA addition to the number of miles driven You may want to consider selling some • Leisure Travel Experts Find out about cruises sailing from New York clothing in the US. (and the number of business miles), the of your losers. The resulting capital losses and other worldwide destinations John Dillard, SVP for Weber Shandwick, is rep- dates of travel, the destinations, and the will offset capital gains, including short- resenting Standard General. He is a former associ- purpose of the travel. term gains from securities owned for one ate at Sitrick and Company, which is representing 888-333-3116 American Apparel. It is essential that you keep a written year or less. For 2014, the maximum rate AA in June bounced Charney and installed PR record of the business use of your car. on short-term gains is 39.6%, plus possi- maven Allan Mayer, a board member, as Co-Chair. Note, you must indicate on your tax bly the 3.8% NIIT. If capital losses AA disclosed in a filing July 7 that it was in return whether you have such a record. exceed capital gains, you can use this talks with Standard General, which had formed an agreement with Charney and controlled 43% of Remember that your return is signed excess to shelter up to $3,000 ($1,500 if the company's shares. That came after a lender under penalty of perjury. you file married filing separately) of your demanded payment on a $10 million loan. Proving expenses with the mileage ordinary income (income from salary, 212-563-3500 • OmegaNewYork.com allowance includes tracking the odometer self-employment income, etc.). £ World Headquarters • 3102 Omega Office Park • Fairfax, VA 22031• 703-359-0200 52 AUGUST 2014 4 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:48 PM Page 53

Leading the Travel Industry by Providing Professional Travel Services Since 1972

• Business Travel Consultants • Strategic Meetings Management • Government Travel Contractors Locations: • Over 200 Offices Worldwide North America Middle East • Competitive Online Booking Europe • One-on-One Travel Consultation Asia • Leisure Travel Experts Find out about cruises sailing from New York and other worldwide destinations 888-333-3116

212-563-3500 • OmegaNewYork.com World Headquarters • 3102 Omega Office Park • Fairfax, VA 22031• 703-359-0200 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:48 PM Page 54

OPINION Opinion More journalists jailed; PRSA remains silent By Jack O’Dwyer York Post columnist John Crudele wrote Other authors/journalists who are or July 19, 2011 that PR’s job is to “make were prominent members include the ive journalists in Myanmar, aged 22- bad news sound not so bad.” authors of other leading PR texts — Dennis 28, have been hit with ten years in She charged, in a letter-to-the-editor, Wilcox, PR Strategies & Tactics; Dan Fprison at hard labor camps for cov- that his definition of PR “couldn’t be fur- Lattimore, PR, The Profession and the ering charges the ther from reality” and that PR people are Practice, and Douglas Ann Newsom, This government is pro- the ones who give Americans “a realistic is PR: The Realities of PR. ducing chemical view of the state of affairs in America.” The Society’s Educators Academy, com- weapons. Roya Another Fiske foray into ethical matters prising more than 350 PR teachers, all of Nobakht, 47, a U.K. was criticism of News Corp. for its initial whom are under the edict to “publish or citizen who was vis- response to phone-hacking charges. perish,” fulfill the definition of journalist. iting in Iran, was She wrote July 18, 2011 that Rupert Public Relations Journal, a digital quar- sentenced to 20 Murdoch “has demonstrated a profound terly of the Society, has numerous journal- years in the infa- lack of understanding of how his actions istic pieces. Its “editor-in-chief” is Jack O’Dwyer mous Evin prison and words influence the public’s percep- now Prof. Robert Wakefield of Brigham for allegedly insult- tion of his company and his employees” Young University, succeeding Prof. Don ing Islam on and said News Corp. has taken a “monu- Wright of Boston University after seven Facebook, Fox News reported. The mental hit.” years. Many of its contributors are Society prison is described as “Hell on earth.” Press belongs in PR society members and would be object if their work These draconian sentences, coming VP-PR Stephanie Cegielski told us the were described as PR. It’s journalism (the after news that one reporter got seven jailings are a matter for the Society of name of the quarterly). Hedge fund to the rescue? years and another got ten in Professional Journalists. Egypt, brought howls from just about all However, many people in PR came out Two of the biggest supporters of the sectors of the communications industry of the media and many are now shifting Society, Vocus and Cision (Silver $20k save one — the PR Society. from journalism to PR because so many sponsors of the 2014 conference) are now The Society, since Rosanna Fiske’s jobs in the former are disappearing. Most owned by the $11 billion GTCR hedge term in 2011, has publicized itself by members deal constantly with traditional fund of Chicago. We’re hoping the man- commenting on all sorts of ethics-related media as well as social media and identify agers will look at this situation. PR and journalistic issues, often using the and sympathize with problems reporters Vocus and Cision provide convenient strongest terms. have, especially long prison terms on access to hundreds of thousands of PRSA’s 2014 Chair Joe Cohen has trumped-up charges. reporters via numerous indexes and cate- steered clear of topics in the news so far, In this regard, the Society is out of step gories but the PR Society and other PR but the slack has been taken up by Chair with its members. The Society, of course, groups closely guard their membership Elect Kathy Barbour, who on Feb. 15 has blackballed the O’Dwyer Co. for lists. Reporters operate under a handicap praised CVS for not selling tobacco prod- decades. We have been banned from the that PR people do not have. Many mem- ucts. exhibit hall for four years and 2014 will be bership lists were public until a few years Cohen on April 8 posted on the Society the fifth unless someone puts their foot ago (PRSA’s until 2005). website that, “It was ironically over my down. Hedge fund principals are fabulously morning cup of java that I learned from Where are such strong opinions such as wealthy, as New York Times columnist Bill Murray (who joined the National Fiske’s when journalists are sent to prison Paul Krugman noted on May 9. Coffee Assn.) that he will be leaving the for long terms on bogus charges? Alpha mag Institutional Investor clocked Society this June ...” There is no logical reason for blocking the 25 highest-paid managers as person- Fiske was most outspoken reporters and writers from joining the ally making $21 billion in 2013. Fiske, now VP of Corporate Society. Staff and leaders don’t want the PR David Tepper of Appaloosa Mgmt. Communications at Wells Fargo, trade press as members because we will pocketed $3.5 billion; Steven Cohen of Florida, lambasted Burson-Marsteller in a write about its finances, the Assembly and SAC Capital Advisors, $2.4 billion, and 726-word statement May 12, 2011 to other matters. John Paulson of his own firm, $2.3 billion. Ragan’s PR Daily, saying its spreading of Examples abound of journalists and writ- Only the top ten are provided by Alpha to negatives about Google for Facebook ers belonging to the Society. Most famous non-subscribers. We don’t know if any “called into question PR professionals’ are Gil Schwartz of CBS who writes principals of GTCR made the list. ethics” and “we all lost.” for Fortune and other media as Stanley Bruce Rauner, GTCR principal, is She not only published the statement Bing and Fraser Seitel, who has made hun- Republican candidate for Governor of via Ragan’s and on the Society website, dreds of appearances on radio and TV as Illinois. His opposition includes the but gave live interviews to The New York PR’s leading spokesperson. He has also American Federation of State, County & Times (twice), Wall Street Journal, USA been an O’Dwyer’s columnist for ten years. Muncipal Employees which feels he is Today, The Financial Times and He is author since 1980 of one of the three anti-union. U.K.’s Telegraph, Advertising leading PR texts — The Practice of PR. Philip Canfield, Managing Director of Age and Der Spiegel of Germany picked Seitel was also Editor of the GTCR, heads the information services and up her quotes. Society’s Strategist quarterly for its first tech group under which Vocus and Cision Fiske was again outraged when New five years. fall. £

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PEOPLE IN PR appearances and books members of his Hyder, President of H+K Canada, will suc- Public Strategies alum administration on cable news and morning ceed Coates, who will double as U.S. CEO programs. on a temporary basis.£ tapped to drive GM He’s noted for understanding the impor- tance of late-night comedy shows for Ciarlante returns to eneral Motors has brought back spreading the Administration’s messaging. Robert Ferguson for its top public Prior to the White House, Vega was head Ketchum office Gpolicy role as the carmaker contin- Director of Surrogate Press for the Obama ues to navigate its recall crisis, rebuild its for America Campaign. oca-Cola’s Diana Garza Ciarlante reputation and work to placate He has served as Deputy has returned to Ketchum to take the Washington. Communications Director for the Creins of the firm’s Atlanta office as a The Senior VP of Democratic National Director. Public Policy role Committee, Director Ciarlante exits the VP of Public Affairs was previously of TV News for and Communications slot at Coca-Cola held by Selim Kerry for President North America and Bingol, who also and National Press earlier was Senior led communica- Secretary for Director of tions and was Constituency Press Communications at pushed out in April during Al Gore’s The Home Depot, a as the company’s White House run. He Ferguson Vega Ketchum client. woes grew. was a member of the Previously, she led Ferguson, a for- press office during Ketchum/Atlanta’s mer Senior Strategist for Public the Clinton Consumer Brand Ciarlante Strategies Inc. (now Hill+Knowlton Administration. practice. Strategies), led government relations for B-M CEO Don Baer lauded Vega’s She reports to GM before moving to a global senior VP “unparalleled background at the highest Partner and Managing Director Hilary role with its Cadillac unit in 2012 under levels of strategic communications.” Hanson McKean, who oversees Atlanta, then-CEO Dan Akerson. But he has led Vega will be based in the Washington Dallas and Toronto, in addition to the the automaker’s recall response among office of the WPP property. He leaves the agency’s global practices. £ lawmakers and regulators while in the White House on July 25. Michele Anderson, who previously led Cadillac role and will report directly to day-to-day management of CEO Mary Barra with the new title. Weitz exits H+K Ketchum/Atlanta, departed for “We need Bob’s leadership and full Ogilvy/Chicago in April. focus on rebuilding relationships and ndy Weitz, President of Barri Rafferty is CEO of Ketchum North instilling confidence in GM’s efforts to Hill+Knowlton Strategies US, is America. £ create a new industry standard for safe- Aexiting the firm to pursue entrepre- ty,” Barra said in a statement. neurial opportunities and spend more time Ogilvy tempts The 54-year-old Ferguson was previ- with his family. ously in legislative and regulatory affairs Mike Coates, a 30-year veteran of the WPP Edelman’s Banovetz with AT&T. unit and CEO of GM in April brought in a former Public Canada, becomes ennifer Banovetz will join Ogilvy PR Strategies CEO Jeff Eller as a PR adviser Chief of the in Los Angeles on Aug. 4 in the and tapped former VP-Comms. Steve Americas region. JSenior VP/Brand Marketing Group Harris out of retirement. Former comms. The firm says unifi- slot for its western region. VP Tony Cervone was recruited back cation of the She is departing Edelman, where from Volkswagen for the top PR slot at Americas is part of Banovetz was Senior VP in its Consumer GM in May. the global organiza- Brand practice and leader of Mattel’s CSR Meanwhile, the bad news drip contin- tional revamp, which initiatives. ues for GM in Washington. The New York is a priority of Jack Weitz Prior to moving to LA, Banovetz was in Times’ lead July 22 story questions GM’s Martin, who assumed the Chicago office of the No. 1 independent disclosures about the fatal crashes that £ the helm in 2011. handling brand-building programs for led to its recall of millions of cars. The uncoupling of regions and countries Dove’s product line. is intended to “allow for localized refine- Her exposure includes the travel, auto- B-M snags Obama ments of structure and process and to pro- motive, consumer packaged goods, health media maven vide proving grounds for talent and leader- & fitness sectors and assignments from ship at all levels and across all geogra- Volkswagen, Nestle, Lululemon and phies,” according to H+K. Infinite Hero Foundation. ag Vega, who handles TV for The Americas move follows the Banovetz also was Senior Account President Obama, will join Burson- November reorganization of APAC and Supervisor at Cohn & Wolfe (Chevron, DMarsteller Aug. 4 as Managing May reorganization of EMEA. Hilton Hotels) and PR staffer at Mazda Director, reporting to Ann Davison, US PA The group has more than 900 staffers in North America (Mazda CX-7). & Crisis Practice Chair. the US, Mexico, Canada, Guatemala, Ogilvy West includes LA, San Francisco, As White House Director of Broadcast Brazil, Chile and Argentina. Sacramento and Denver. Nathan Friedman Media, Vega manages the President’s TV Coates has led Canada since 1995. Goldy presides over the group. £

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WASHINGTON REPORT SEC fines E&Y $4 million for improper lobbying

rnst & Young has agreed to pay more than $4 million to set- tle charges levied by the Securities and Exchange ECommission that it violated auditor independence rules by lobbying for two audit clients. Such lobbying activities are impermissible because they put a firm in the position of being an advocate for those audit clients. “Despite providing the prohibited legislative advisory services on behalf of the clients, E&Y repeatedly represented that it was ‘independent’ in audit reports issued on the clients’ financial state- ments,” according to the SEC. “Auditor independence is critical to the integrity of the financial reporting process. When an auditor acts as an advocate for its audit client, that independence is compromised,” said Scott Friestad, Podesta works for Sallie Mae Associate Director in the SEC’s Division of Enforcement, said in a statement. “Ernst & Young engaged in lobbying activities that con- spin-off service stituted improper advocacy and clearly violated the rules.” The SEC charged that E&Y’s Washington Council EY impaired odesta Group navigates the D.C. political scene for the firm’s independence by sending letters signed by a senior exec- Navient Solutions Inc. as Democrats push to revamp the utive of an Ernst & Young audit client to congressional staff; urg- P$1.2 trillion student loan sector. ing passage of certain legislation; asking congressional staff to Navient services Dept. of Education and private sector loans insert language into a bill that was favorable to the business inter- and develops asset recovery solutions. It was spun off on April 30 ests of the firm’s; meeting with congressional staff in order to from SLM Corp., the predecessor corporation to Sallie Mae. defeat legislation detrimental to the business interests of the audit The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. announced May 14 a set- client; asking third parties to approach a U.S. senator in order to tlement with subsidiaries of SLM Corp. and Navient Corp. for seek support for a legislative amendment sought by an audit client; alleged unfair and deceptive practices related to student loans. and marking up a draft of a bill by inserting an audit client’s lan- SLM and Navient were ordered to pay $6.6 million in penal- guage and sending it to congressional staff. ties, $30 million in restitution to harmed borrowers, and fund a A spokesperson for E&Y said “auditor independence is of para- $60 million settlement fund with the U.S. Department of Justice. mount importance to the company” and that E&Y voluntarily In its first quarterly release as a public company, Navient ended lobbying work for SEC registrant audit clients in 2012. £ earned $307 million on $11.8 billion total assets in the June- ended period. On June 13, DOE extended the company’s contract to handle Gun group taps PR director 5.8 million accounts in its Direct Student Loan Program for five years. £ he National Shooting Sports Foundation, the Newtown, Conn.-based trade group for firearms manufacturers, has Tbrought in Jennifer Pearsall as director of PR. White House snatches Purse Pearsall is a former Editor for the National Rifle Association and recently served as Senior Book Editor for Gun for media post Digest/F&W Media. NSSF counts 10,000 gun makers, distributors, retailers, ndrea Purse, VP of Communications for the Center for shooting ranges and similar entities as members. It lobbies American Progress, has moved to the nationally against gun control measures and promotes develop- AWhite House as Director of Broadcast ment of shooting ranges and competitions, in addition to run- Media. ning its popular SHOT trade show. Dag Vega, who held the White House post, The group also added Justin Morrissey as digital content spe- is headed for Burson-Marsteller early next cialist. Mike Bazinet, as director of PA, handles media rela- month. tions. Purse, who handled broadcast media and Steve Sanetti, former President of Sturm, Ruger & Co., is the left-leaning, Washington-based CAP Purse CEO of NSSF. He addressed the thorny PR issue of his group before taking the VP slot, earlier led TV and sharing a hometown with the site of the 2012 school shooting radio outreach for John Edwards’ presidential in an interview with the Associated Press in November in which campaign and is a former Press Secretary to Rep. George he said NSSF considered leaving Newtown but ultimately Miller (D. Calif.). decided to stay put. The group, which has ramped up its Project She is also a former media aide to House Democratic Leader ChildSafe campaign, posted a long statement about the shoot- Nancy Pelosi. ing on its website. Daniella Gibbs Leger, an Obama administration alum, is Chris Dolnack is SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at NSSF. Senior VP, Communications and Strategy, for CAP, which pub- Longtime NSSF hand Bill Brassard is Senior Director, Comms. £ lishes the ThinkProgress blog. £

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International PR News

Russia cuts Ketchum spending Catholic Press Association who co-authored a book on Pope Benedict and the sexual abuse crisis, is the U.S. representative on the 10-member committee. he Government of Russia cut spending at Ketchum 30% Ireland’s Monsignor Paul Tighe, who is secretary of a pontifical to $4 million during its latest six-month period compared council on social communications and established the Vatican Tto year ago figures. Office for Public Affairs, takes a secretary title on the new com- The Russian Federation sliced outlays spending to $1.5 mil- mittee. lion for the session ended in May, down from $1.9million in In a press release, the Vatican said the group is expected to 2013. strengthen digital channels to reach young people globally and Gazprom, the government-owned energy entity, allocated build on the Vatican’s successful launch of a Twitter account for $2.5 million, rather than the comparable $3.8 million amount. Pope Francis and the Pope App. £ The Omnicom unit this year invited media outlets including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Economist, Financial Times, Washington Post, CNN, Bloomberg, and PBS to events Ecuador targets Chevron in Moscow and Washington, DC, regarding the global economy and international energy scene. he Embassy of Ecuador has hired the firm of former liberal Ketchum also pitched outlets about a roundtable with strong- Congressman Bill Delahunt of Massachusetts to improve man Vladimir Putin. £ Tbilateral ties with it and the U.S. and to keep on top of Chevron’s “communications strategies and lobbying efforts” in Vatican committee talks PR both federal Washington and think tanks. The South American nation and San Ramon, Calif.-based ener- gy giant have been at loggerheads over pollution in the Amazon he Vatican has formed a high-profile committee charged created by Texaco, which is now part of Chevron. with overseeing and reforming its global communications to Delahunt Group’s six-month contract calls for it to recommend Tbe led by former BBC Trust chair Chris Patten. and then respond to Chevron’s initiatives, which may result in The Holy See said the new committee will propose reforms for coordination with other stakeholders. the Vatican’s media operations and will publish a report and reform The outfit reports to Ecuador Ambassador Nathalie Cely. plan within the next 12 months. Democrat Delahunt had close ties with late Venezuelan presi- Patten, currently chancellor at Oxford University, led the BBC’s dent Hugo Chavez and helped arrange the 2005 export of low-cost governing body from April 2011 until May of this year and over- fuel from Citgo, which is controlled by Venezuela, to more than saw Pope Benedict’s visit to the UK in 2010. He was also the lat- 500K poor people in the Bay State and New York City. est governor of Hong Kong before its handover to China. Ecuador also inked a $6.4 million contract with Brooklyn’s Catholic publisher Gregory Erlandson, former President of the MCSquared to bolster its image in the US and Europe. £ FARA News ¸ NEW FOREIGN AGENTS REGISTRATION ACT FILINGS Below is a list of select companies that have registered with the U.S. Department of Justice, FARA Registration Unit, Washington, D.C., in order to comply with the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, regarding their consulting and communications work on behalf of foreign principals, including governments, political parties, organizations, and individuals. For a complete list of filings, visit www.fara.gov.

Sanitas International, Washington, D.C., registered July 14, 2014 for Dr. Ashraf Ghani, Kabul, Afghanistan, to support the Transformation and Continuity Party and Dr. Ashraf Ghani during this critical period in Afghan history.

FitzGibbon Media, Inc., Arlington, VA, registered July 7, 2014 for MCSquared PR Inc. (on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Ecuador), Brooklyn, NY, to assist with public relations through ad placement to inform the US public of Chevron's responsibilities so the public interest of Ecuador will be furthered.

Mark K. AIsalih, Washington, D.C., registered July 18, 2014 for Common Council of Iraqi and Arabic Tribes, Baghdad, Iraq, to help the council in the U.S to seek the prevention of conflict and peaceful resolution of disputes through civic engagement and create an environment to develop lasting peace. Lobbying News G NEW LOBBYING DISCLOSURE ACT FILINGS Below is a list of select companies that have registered with the Secretary of the Senate, Office of Public Records, and the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Legislative Resource Center, Washington, D.C., in order to comply with the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995. For a complete list of filings, visit www.senate.gov.

Capitol Counsel, LLC, Washington D.C., registered July 24, 2014 for National Association of Forest Owners, Washington, D.C., for monitoring clean air and clear water, forestry, and general tax related issues.

DLA Piper LLP (US), Washington, D.C., registered Jul 22, 2014 for Arab Bank plc, Amman, Jordan, regarding international banking issues.

Washington Tax & Public Policy Group (formerly The Washington Tax Group), Washington, D.C., registered July 22, 2014 for salesforce.com, San Francisco, CA, for issues related to tax reform and the research and development tax credit.

Dentons US LLP, Washington, D.C., registered July 21, 2014 for Fantasy Sports Trade Association, Chicago, IL, for issues that may affect the fantasy sports industry and legislation related to gaming; H.R. 4301 and S. 2159 Restoration of America's Wire Act.

AUGUST 2014 3 WWW.ODWYERPR.COM 57 Augmagazine_Layout 1 7/29/14 12:48 PM Page 58

To be featured in the monthly Buyer’s Guide, PR Buyer’s Guide Contact John O’Dwyer, [email protected]

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PR JOBS - http://jobs.odwyerpr.com

Director, Public Relations

Sportsman Channel, the leader in outdoor TV for the American Sportsman, is looking for a Public Relations Director to oversee all public and media relations, effective immediately. Sportsman Channel is an innovative and quickly growing television net- work with leading social media and digital properties. The network, coupled with sister company InterMedia Outdoors (IMO), a premier outdoors dig- ital and print publishing company, represent the largest and most comprehensive outdoor media conglomerate in the outdoors’ space.

The PR Director is a full-time position based in New York City. The position will require some travel, including to the network’s Milwaukee headquarters, and be responsible for managing the department’s Public Relations Manager based in Milwaukee.

Requirements: •Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in communi- cations, PR or marketing •10-12 years of communications/PR experience; Cable/TV preferred

Qualified candidates should submit letter of interest with salary expectations and resume in confidence via email or fax. Please indicate the title of the posi- tion for which you are applying.

Judy Gilmore, [email protected]

Sportsman Channel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package.

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