ICON HK: Communicating in uncertain times: How to navigate stakeholder interests, maintain trust and protect your business

Fundamental economic, political, social and technological changes are reshaping the world. How companies navigate this change in the best interests of their stakeholders is paramount.

This interactive workshop will be led by Ben Evetts and Emma Smith of strategic communications consultancy MHP Communications.  MHP is a multi-disciplinary communications agency with offices in Hong Kong, London, Singapore and Sydney.

A specialist in capital markets, financial services, healthcare and technology, its consultants have a proven track record in the region, providing high calibre award-winning campaigns and support across regional and local markets. In 2017 and 2018 it was awarded ‘Financial Campaign of the Year’ from Public Affairs Asia and PRWeek respectively. In 2019 it was awarded best CSR communications and media relations campaigns by PRWeek and Marketing Interactive for campaigns in the healthcare and technology sectors.

This lunch-and-learn session is for any business professional who needs to manage stakeholders and will focus on how companies can respond to the challenges of today and the future.  It will include exercises for you to explore.

• The changing global landscape
• New communications realities and networked audiences
• Approaching crisis communications
• Case studies – best practice and common pitfalls
• Preparing for, managing and overcoming major challenges
• Establishing protocols and procedures
• Developing a response plan and strategies for engagement with internal and external stakeholders
• Devising messages and statements
• Dealing with stakeholders

Ben Evetts

Ben, Director, has over 20 years international corporate communications experience gained working in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. He has advised on numerous crisis and issues situations, as well as working with corporations and governments to set up their internal issues functions and test their crisis preparedness. His situational experience includes crises as varied as international border disputes, trade embargo/sanctions breaking, bribery, industrial accidents, product recalls and corporate failures.

Emma Smith

Emma, CEO Asia Pacific, has built and counselled businesses and brands across Asia Pacific for 25 years. She led Weber Shandwick Worldwide in Asia before founding The Consultancy, acquired by MHP Communications in 2013. An expert in reputation building, crisis and issues management, change communications, C-Suite advisory and stakeholder engagement, she has led internal, external and brand-building campaigns for many global corporations. Her crisis and issues experience spans the apparel, financial services, beverage, chemicals, media, medical and various academic institutions across Asia.

Event details:

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ICON thanks event sponsor: