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PRCA creates forum for Johannesburg agency leaders
The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has launched the PRCA Africa Johannesburg Agency Forum, bringing senior agency leaders together to discuss issues affecting the public relations industry and agency community.
The forum will provide a confidential setting for agency leaders to exchange perspectives and examine current industry challenges and opportunities, with discussions covering market conditions, employment practices, workplace changes, reputation, representation and investment.
PRCA Johannesburg forum to address agency industry issues
The forum will also consider the future direction and influence of the public relations profession. Discussions are intended to give agency leaders a platform to share experience and develop practical responses to issues affecting the sector.
Karl Haechler, CEO of Burson Africa, has been appointed Chair of the PRCA Africa Johannesburg Agency Forum. In the role, Karl Haechler will also join the PRCA Africa Executive Committee, bringing agency leadership perspectives into the organisation’s wider strategic discussions.
Karl Haechler appointed chair of PRCA Africa forum
Karl Haechler, Chair of the PRCA Africa Johannesburg Agency Forum: "Agency leaders are often navigating many of the same challenges, yet we can find ourselves tackling them independently. There is real value in coming together to share experience, challenge each other’s thinking and work together on solutions. I see the Johannesburg Agency Forum as an opportunity to bring those conversations together and, importantly, turn them into action that can benefit the wider industry. I’m looking forward to creating a forum where ideas can be shared openly and constructively, and where the thinking that emerges can help shape the future of our profession."
Jo Brophy, Head of International Membership (Africa, Europe and the Americas), PRCA: "Agency leaders have a unique perspective on the issues affecting our profession and the wider business environment. The Johannesburg Agency Forum will provide a space for those leaders to have open and constructive conversations about the challenges we face, but also to identify opportunities to strengthen the role and influence of public relations.
We are delighted to have Karl lead the Forum. His experience and understanding of the agency landscape will be incredibly valuable as we develop this new initiative and create a stronger connection between agency leadership and the wider work of PRCA Africa."
Agency leaders to shape PRCA Africa industry initiatives
The forum will meet regularly, with discussions intended to lead to activity beyond the meetings. Issues requiring further attention may be referred to relevant PRCA Groups, contribute to new initiatives or develop into dedicated workstreams led by participating agency leaders.
The Johannesburg Agency Forum is part of PRCA Africa’s broader work to create opportunities for senior professionals to connect, exchange knowledge and contribute to the development of the public relations profession across the continent.
