PR's Top Pros Talk

Peter Cook, Chief Communications Officer at the American Bankers Association, shares how his team serves as the voice of the banking industry in Washington and the challenge of representing banks of all sizes. He explains his range of responsibilities at ABA, how he applies his journalism background to his job, and the importance of data in reaching a skeptical public.

Blake McEvoy, Head of U.S. Corporate Affairs for Respiratory & Immunology, Vaccines & Immune Therapies at AstraZeneca, describes the communicator's role in the healthcare transformation. He explains how leaders can provide value to the next generation of workers. He also shares his insights on how the healthcare industry is developing a people, planet, and society-focused approach.

Jim O'Leary, Chief Executive Officer at Weber Shandwick, North America, explains the shifts to the corporate affairs profession that have taken place over the past several years – and how the trends of today, for artificial intelligence to CEO turnover, will affect the industry’s future.

Carrie Blewitt, Senior Vice President at Story Partners, discusses the use of jargon in public relations. She also explains how to develop a clear and effective pitch to the media.

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Jenny Wang, Senior Vice President at CLYDE, discusses why DE&I remains business critical when it comes to all stakeholders, including consumers and employees. She explains four pillars of consideration for communicators to consider when it comes to DE&I and health equity communications. Jenny also shares her tips on how brands can avoid performative allyship.

Brendan P. Lewis, Executive Vice President of Global Communications and Public Affairs at Oatly, shares his top three pieces of advice for job seekers. He opens up about the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. Brendan also offers his insights on when brands should take risks.

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After sharing the history behind her firm’s name, Laura Liotta, President and Founder of Sam Brown Inc. Healthcare Communications, dives into corporate communications and how she works with healthcare companies to get their messages across to various audiences. Laura also offers insights on leveraging authentic spokespeople, including celebrities.

Cherilyn Cecchini, M.D., Partner at FINN Partners, reflects on the lessons she has learned from her residency and how they apply to her communications role. Cherilyn describes how medical professionals and agency leaders can effectively work together with patients and their families. Cherilyn also shares valuable information from her medical research.

Ryan Lilly, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of MWW Health, describes the dos and don'ts of building a healthcare practice at an agency. Ryan explains how healthcare communicators are continuing to lead with a value-based care approach. Ryan also discusses the importance of patient privacy.

Doug Broad, Principal of Three Rings Inc., shares how his agency’s hands-on media relations approach positively affects its employees and clients. Doug also discusses how analyst relations should go beyond simply getting in reports and explains some trends they are seeing in the VC space.