The PRCA Africa Johannesburg Agency Forum (the Forum), launched by the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), will be chaired by Karl Haechler, CEO of Burson Africa.
Karl Haechler, CEO of Burson Africa, has been appointed chair of the PRCA Africa Johannesburg Agency Forum (Image source: @ Burson Global
Burson Global)
The Forum will provide a confidential, high-level space for agency leaders to share perspectives, exchange insights and discuss the challenges and opportunities currently facing and shaping the industry.
Discussions will focus on issues including market conditions, employment practices and the changing workplace, reputation, representation and investment, as well as the future direction and influence of the public relations profession.
Real value in coming together
Haechler says, “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."
He sees the 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.”
As chair, Haechler will also join the PRCA Africa Executive Committee, ensuring that the perspectives and priorities of agency leaders are represented within PRCA Africa's wider strategic direction.
Unique perspective
Jo Brophy, head of international membership (Africa, Europe and the Americas), PRCA, says agency leaders have a unique perspective on the issues affecting our profession and the wider business environment.
“The 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.”
She adds that they are delighted to have Haechler to 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."
The Forum will meet regularly, with discussions designed to extend beyond the room.
Where issues require further attention, conversations can inform relevant PRCA Groups, contribute to new initiatives or develop into dedicated workstreams led by participating agency leaders.
Commitment to PR
The launch of the Forum forms part of PRCA Africa's continued commitment to creating opportunities for senior professionals to connect, share knowledge and contribute to the development of the profession across the continent.
