Mirren Training - MSL - Biz Dev Program/Team

What has been your role in the new business efforts of the agency?
N/A N/A
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Overseeing new business for PBJS for North America
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Business Development Manager - project managing all pitch efforts; responding to RFIs and RFPs; coordinating large teams across the network; conducting research, managing pipeline and salesforce; staying connected to others in new biz roles across the agency; managing social media channels; coordinating marketing events
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader To develop a strategy that focuses and gives direction to our new business efforts within the Corporate Practice -- generate opportunities, as well as pitch and win. Also oversee and lend assistance to the building of new business for the Brand & Talent practice in NY, specifically.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare New Biz is my core job responsibility. I regularly pitch and bring new biz into the agency, and I participate on cross-office pitches.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development I lead the overall new business efforts of MSLGROUP in North America. I am responsible ultimately for delivering $35.285MM in new business, through a network of 555 employees and offices in 11 cities. It is my job to marshall our top resources for our most important new business opportunities.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President I am involved in a variety of new business efforts, including responding to RFIs, RFPs, drafting presentations and presenting to clients. I also maintain relationships with former clients and colleagues to mine for new business opportunities.
Kyle Farnham, Managing Director, MSLGROUP Atlanta I am responsible for leading the Atlanta office's new business efforts.
Michael King VP More helping to develop/respond to proposals andless presentations/pitches. The nature of our business does not always require a pitch -- many times work is awared based on a written (usually a Word document) proposal.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor I have helped draft two ro three proposals for new business. I have presented at one recompete pitch.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer I've only been at the agency for 1 month so none yet. But I will be focused on new business to help grow the consumer group.
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist I work on a team of two with Marcy Massura (VP, West Coast Director of Digital) developing MSLGROUP's proprietary influencer marketing solution, IMpact. We are focused on introducing existing clients to the offering for incremental revenue as well as pitching the product for new business. Additionally, I have also been involved in several new business pitches specializing in social and digital.
Nadia Beale, SVP Consumer Practice Leader Identifying new leads; plan development; pitching; onboarding
Erika Joseph - Manager, Businsess Development Started 12/1 - role will be managing process and proactive outreach
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations Media Relations Senior Strategist
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Media relations strategy/support
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President - Respond to RFPs - Develop strategy and presentation materials - Deliver agency presentation
Nelly An Business Development Manager I am responsible for net new business growth for North America. I manage the pitch process for single and multi-office pitches.
Kris Garvey Deputy Managing Director, Consumer Practice Lead - Midwest Just joined on 12/2 but anticipate a large role in the Midwest moving forward.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Prospecting with net new and organic opportunities, strategy development for prospecting and for specific opportunities, warming up prospectings, pitch theme, strategy development and presentation, continued follow up and relationship building -- soup to nuts
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Prospecting, Networking, Acting as New Business Account Leader
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead I represent digital/social on new business
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Brainstorming
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Started 12/1 - My role will be managing the new business process for MSL NY, building an office culture around new business and proactive outeach
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr New business and office marketing
What is your background, in terms of agencies, accounts, and client-side experience?
N/A N/A
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development I have an extensive background in event planning and business development working with a number of CPG, Pharmaceutical, Technology and Non-Profit clients.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta I worked on client accounts prior to my new business role - for consumer, corporate and government accounts - from 2007 to 2010. In 2010, I began focusing solely on new business. Prior to joining MSL in 2007, I worked for a law firm where I managed all events - internal employee appreciation events and client events. I also wrote presentations for marketing purposes.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader 20 years on the agency side -- leading national practices at Weber Shandwick and Burson-Marsteller. Eight years on the client side -- running comms in the US for HSBC for 4 years and global comms for White & Case (global law firm).
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare MSLGROUP 1 year. My own PR business 2 years. Roche Diagnostics 1 year. Abbott Vascular 5 years. WeissComm Group 2 years. Elan Pharmaceuticals 4-5 years. Kane & Finkel Advertising 2 years. InterActive Public Relations - now part of Ogilvy - 2 years. Biotech Research Company 5 years.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development I have nearly 20 years experience in agency new business. I have worked at 5 agencies in total.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President I have been at Schwartz MSL for more than 16 years and work on a variety of tech, healthcare and healthcare IT accounts. My primary account load leans toward healthcare but I also have a few tech and healthcare IT accounts. I really enjoy the mix of accounts. I have not worked on the client side.
Kyle Farnham, Managing Director, MSLGROUP Atlanta I have worked at MSLGROUP Atlanta for the past 13 years. Key account experience includes: The Home Depot, The Coca-Cola Company, Philips Consumer Electronics, IRWIN Industrial Tools, The Krystal Company, Chevron/Havoline and General Motors. I worked in-house at Mizuno USA (sporting goods company) prior to joining MSLGROUP.
Michael King VP Been w/ MSL for 13 years. Prior to that, worked at Ketchum PR and a boutique media relations firm in Washington DC. I am the account director for the office's RWJF work (approx $1.8 - 2m/year). I also work on Nicholson Foundation, Caring Foundations, Premier, etc.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor My background is in nonprofit communications (on the client side), particularly around aerospace and environmental issues. For the last 3.5 years I have been with MSL working on health policy issues, primarily for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer I've worked at agencies both big and small over the last 18 years. I was at MWW recently. Prior to that DKC, Ruder Finn, and Fleishman Hillard. I am a consumer generalist with strong industry experiience in automotive, travel, wellness and food and beverage.
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Prior to joining MSLGROUP (7 months ago), I was at SocialChorus, a social marketing SaaS startup. At SocialChorus, I was a Manager of Strategic Accounts responsible for the day-to-day strategic management of the PepsiCo and Kraft (Mondelez) accounts. As a part of my role I developed and executed social word-of-mouth marketing campaigns for clients including TNT, Quaker, Trident, Mountain Dew and iD gum. In addition to my work on accounts and new business, I sat on our product advisory board partnering on product development initiatives (e.g. analytics dashboard, mobile-optimized application).
Nadia Beale, SVP Consumer Practice Leader 14 years experience, worked at two global agencies and two boutique agencies. Worked extensively in CPG and category subject expertise in Beauty.
Erika Joseph - Manager, Businsess Development Prior to MSL, worked for MWW in a new businsess roll for the consumer group nationwide.
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations Prior to joining MSL in October, I spent about three years at a mid-sized agency where I played an active role in the new business process -- as client lead, senior media strategist and senior content counselor. Before that, I spect more than 12 years working in broadcast news -- the majority of that time at Fox News Channel, where I was the senior producer of the marque news show.
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Majority of professional PR experience is on the agency side. Have worked for 3 global agencies and 1 U.S. focused top media relations agency. Have worked cross practice/cross account -- primarily in the areas of consumer, health/pharma, consumer health. Dual experience in leading accounts/account service side and serving as media relations lead.
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President 27 years of experience: - 14 years client-side: Levi Strauss, Charles Schwab, Microsoft, T-Mobile USA - 13 years agency-side: Ogilvy & Mather, Ketchum, Fleishman-Hillard and MSLGROUP Account experience: consumer goods, financial services, software, telecommunications
Nelly An Business Development Manager I have held client account management positions for 2 years at a boutique, independent woman-owned branding agency at the start of my career. Clients I've worked on include global reinsurance broker firm Guy Carpenter (Marsh & McLennan), Knicks City Dancers, St. George's University and Mercy College. I focused solely on new business for the past 5 years, having held a global new business role at a digital/CRM shop, MRM Worldwide (digital/CRM arm of McCann Erickson) and now at MSLGROUP. Accounts won spans multiple industries. Key wins include Blue Cross Blue Shield, The Home Depot, Wells Fargo, iShares, AOPA, Jenny Craig, BMW North America, Emirates Airline, among others.
Kris Garvey Deputy Managing Director, Consumer Practice Lead - Midwest Most recently with Weber Shandwick for 10 years Edelman - 6 yrs Consumer focused, mostly food, CPG, retail - Kraft, Nabisco, Nestle, P&G, KFC, Kohl's, National Pork Board, Campbell Soup Company, Mondelez, OREO...etc.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Worked at MSLGROUP waaaaaaaayyyyy long - 28 years -- have done just about every job --run Corporate Group in Chicago. Also, worked on Capitol Hill on the House side for a Representative and in Commuications at a DC Chamber of Commerce.
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) 17 years of agency experience
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead I have been with MSL for 6 months. Formerly with Weber Shandwick.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Agencies: MSL Group, Ogilvy Public Relations, Bite Communications, Text 100 Public Relations Accounts: P&G (Swiffer, Mr. Clean), Guinness, San Pellegrino, Nestle, American Express, Ford Motor Company, LG (home appliances) Client-Side Experience: Corporate Communications at IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)...managed PR agency (Ruder Finn)
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Started career in technology sales - spent last 2.5 years at a mid-sized agency handling new business across NA for the consumer practice
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Prior to MSL I worked for a boutique multimedia agency that specialized in science communications. My primary client was BIO (Biotech Industry Org) but others included Hepititis Foundation, Foundation Fighting Blindness, BP and Ceres. I did everything from writing/producing corporate videos, PR outreach, social media management.
As if you were writing to a prospective client, describe the agency in no more than 3 sentences:
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development PBJS specializes in delivering ideas that stick - "a-ha" moments where audiences experience and understand the message that stays with them long after the event is over. Our team of creative talent, strategy mavens and production gurus work together to create flawlessly executed events and experiences that translate the story into fun, measurable experiences for consumers.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta MSLGROUP is the data-driven flagship integrated marketing communications and events agency in the Publicis Group network. We specialize in helping leading brands across a variety of industries tell their stories in a channel neutral environment. Our strengths lie in consumer marketing, corporate and B2B communications, digital and social media, employee engagement, technology, healthcare and public affairs.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader MSLGROUP is a "next generation" global communications agency that endeavors to support clients' business strategies by creating communications strategies and content that enable storytelling to deliver targeted messages to our clients' key stakeholders. Our practices provide a matrixed system that supports a broad variety of client businesses and industries locally, nationally and globally. We strive to successfully deploy a mix of traditional, digital and social, experiential communications approaches to deliver measureable results for our clients.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare MSLGROUP is one of the world's top-five global PR networks — working with a quarter of the top-100 most valuable brands globally. We are part of one of the world's largest communications groups - Publicis Group, which spans 104 countries, employs approximately 50,000 professionals and offers local and international clients a complete range of marketing, digital and communications services.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Well, it depends on who I am writing to! Consider this email to a technology prospect: I have a feeling, based on what I know about , that our technology experts could be a PERFECT match for you. We help technology companies big and small engage business media, key influencers and consumers through content-rich communications and earned media programs. Salesforce is our most recent new client assignment, as an example.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President MSL Boston is a strategic communications agency that helps innovators of all sizes and stages of development achieve their business objectives. We are the best strategists and storytellers and ensure that your key messages resonate with influencers and decision-makers. With competition for attention so brutal in today's always-on communications environment, MSL Boston is fast-moving and aggressive and consistantly delivers superior results.
Michael King VP MSLGROUP, Publicis Groupe's strategic communications global firm,designs and execute programs that seek to change minds, policy, and behavior. We are research-driven and action-oriented. We help you figure out what you need to say, how to say it, who you need to say it to and where you need to say it.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Our business is helping clients to creatively engage with their audiences 24/7. We focus on your goals to design smart, strategic, creative campaigns. We pride ourselves on finding the right messages to reach the public, providers, payers or public officials and delivering them in a way that makes them pay attention.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer MSLGROUP is a top tier global agency known for our innovation and creativity. Our team has a passion for exceptional client service and data-driven big ideas that drive strong results. We are laser focused on the metrics of success and can help your brand reach and engage consumers.
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist MSLGROUP is a global, next-generation communications agency. We partner with our clients as trusted business advisors and excel in creative storytelling across a base of speciality practices including [insert prospective client's].
Nadia Beale, SVP Consumer Practice Leader Smart, agile and creative. We are you
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations MSL is one of the world's largest agencies, with a client roster that includes some of the most well-known brands. We focus on creating stories that matter for influencers, shareholders, customers and media, and packaging them in a way that moves business forward.
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Global agency with an entrepreneural feel. Comprehensive and focused. Collaborative and good partners.
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President MSLGROUP helps organizations build trust and achieve their goals through clear and meaningful storytelling.
Nelly An Business Development Manager MSLGROUP is Publicis Groupe's flagship strategic communications and engagement consultancy and the 4th largest PR firm in the world. We are truly a next-generation agency that creates and celebrates data-driven, content-rich big ideas and communications solutions. Our integrated capabilities include public relations, content marketing, social media, branding, advertising and digital.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President MSLGROUP is Next Generation Communications Company. We have strong communications strategists who have proven record in delivering business results -- across multiple sectors. We now integrated communications in today's content focused world -- and have REAL experience working across all channels
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Master storytellers in the always on conversation economy, unbound source of creativity and innovation.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead The 4th largest global PR agency, that encorporates an integrated approach with digital, creative, crisis and mainstream public relations.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President MSL is the fourth-largest agency in the world with reputable clients already on our roster, including P&G, GM, PayPal, Tiffany's and Rolls Royce to name a few.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager MSLGROUP is a collection of communications and creative professionals that engage audiences through always-on conversation and storytelling. We work with 25 percent of the top 100 most valuable global brands and have proven expertise in the auto industry. As one of the largest global agency networks, we offer cohesive support across local, overseas and multi-market projects, providing a flexible approach to help you reach new buyers, build stronger partnerships and ultimately sell more cars.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr It depends on who the prospect was as I'd customize around their size, industry and his/her title. But generic statement is: MSLGROUP is a strategic communications and engagement agency. We are part of Publicis Groupe and one on the top 5 global agencies.
Stuart Elliott, who covers agencies for the New York Times, decides he is going to write an article about your agency. After spending a day at your offices, and then going back to write the piece.... what would the headline be?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Innovative Fun - the new agency frontier!
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Evolving brand story-teller's big data helps brands harness the power of social engagement
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader MSLGROUP: Boundless is Bountiful OR Edelman Who?
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare How to get what PR is all about - in 2.5 minutes or less
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development MSLGROUP - Poised for a Bright Future
Lauren Arnold, Vice President MSL Boston: Today's Agency with Values and Smarts of Yesteryear
Michael King VP Smart Team Offering a Personal Touch
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor They "Get It": MSLGROUP Understands the Wonky, Delivers the Strategy
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer Lots of Empty Desks and Quiet Halls
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist MSLGROUP: A truly global agency
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations MSL Provides Window to the World
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Ingenuity, thy name is MSL!
Nelly An Business Development Manager MSLGROUP Setting the Paradigm in Content Marketing
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Making Sense Out of Change - MSLGROUP
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Next Generation Agency: entrepreneurial spirit allowing for innovation at today's marketplace speed.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead MSLGROUP , an agency that embraces remote employees with great success.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Why Large Brands Stick With Agencies They Know
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager MSLGROUP Looks Ahead
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr ??
Now bring the agency to life. You have certainly been through this exercise, however applying it to your agency agency can be quite revealing in understanding more about your "DNA".

If the agency were a car, what kind would it be? What color? Why?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development If PBJS were a car, it would be a blue MINI Cooper Paceman - this is a car that exudes attitude - it mixes the best traits of a coupe, with additional space and available all-wheel drive of the countryman. It retains its own distinctive design and buck-the-trend persona, while standing out among vehicles even twice its size. It is cool, confident and composed -everywhere it goes.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Red porsche boxter. We are striving to be more relevant, more cutting edge, attract more attention, but all the while being accessible to most brands. We're sexy and alluring, built to last, exceptional engineering that is going to sustain us in the communications race to the top of the agency heap finish line.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Car: Mini Cooper Countryman; Color: Black; Why: Because it's sexy and at the same time approachable; it's reasonbly priced and gets great mileage; it's now built by BMW, so it's solidly made; it's got a history/heritage, but it's new and hip
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Grey BMW. Not too flashy, but looks really nice when you take a closer look.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development The truth? Chevy Tahoe, black Because we are big, established, not super quick or flashy. There is a certain level of quality and luxury appointments, but we aren't an import. We are surprisingly expensive and a little common.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President MSL Boston would be a hybrid, crossover vehicle. A car with a solid reputation but also innovative, fast and agile. It's a crossover because we have so many different offerings for clients; from media relations to content creation to analyst relations and more, we are a full service agency for our clients. We put together programs that will best deliver results for our clients. It's a hybrid because it's smart and designed for today's environment (also will appeal to our cleantech clients!). For color, I would say multicolored, or pink with green polka dots. The car will stand out in the crowd and show our flair for creativity.
Michael King VP Volvo - dependable, channel agnostic, premier without being flashy
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor An expandable, double decker bus (silver) - we'll do whatever it takes to get your audience where it needs to go.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer a candy apple red Ferrari -- we are fast, agile, showstopping and bold
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Blue Nissan Why? Blue is our color! Strong ties to France (part-owned by Renault) and Asia A global leader, but not in the top spot A brand gaining momentum in recent years
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations Volkswagen Passat -- Blue...
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Honda -- reliable, tried and true, experienced, solid partner
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President The Honda Accord... 4-door... gray MSL is like a Honda. Solidly built and reliable. Not flashy. Safe. At risk of being considered a common utility vehicle... unless, of course, we spring for upgrades.
Nelly An Business Development Manager A Blue MINI. An iconic car, steeped with heritage, European roots. Has managed to evolve over time with the changing media and marketing landscape but stay true to its heritage.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President A black jeep cherokee with a couple of dents in the back bumper
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) A red Toyota corolla. Not quite a Ferrari but the color red is our attempt to more closely resemble one.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Navy blue Telsa. Corporate = Blue High performance, fast and beautiful hybrid = forward thinking digital agency
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Black Audi - we're professional, buttoned up, and make our clients successful.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager A Blue Cadillac. Why - of course because it's in the GM family. Also the cadillac is a classic car with a big name and strong reputation that has manged to continually evolve and reinvent itself for the times. Blue because the sky is the limit.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Red Tesla - innovative, modern, sustainable
What agencies do you most admire? Why?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development 72andsunny - they are forever changing and always innovative.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Love/hate Edelman -- they know how to win -- and win a lot Burson-Marsteller -- still a revered agency and respected brand, globally
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Foote Cone Belding - well known name, well respected
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development I admire: + Edelman, because they invest in talent and stay ahead of the curve + Barkley in KC, because they stand for something and are owned by employees + Razorfish, because I worked with them in 1998 when they were 13 people and now they are $1B+ + Saatchi and Leo Burnett, because they do amazing work at scale + Huge, because they blend amazing technology and design
Lauren Arnold, Vice President Agencies that provide full service, integrated services and can show clear ROI/results from case studies.
Michael King VP Ketchum: Great culture, rewards collaboration
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor I admire agencies with a distinct point of view and honed clientele. I think clients also are looking for agencies that do not waffle on what they stand for or where there expertise lies. Most examples are boutique firms, but some are owned by larger parents (e.g., GMMB)
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer none
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist StarCom Mediavest
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Edelman, Ketchum, Fleishman-Hillard, Weber Shandwick They are willing to invest in new technologies and they cultivate a strong, collaborative work environment
Nelly An Business Development Manager R/GA. Leaders in innovation and pushing the boundaries for their clients.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Edelman -- they own it - their ideas, their platforms wtihout apologies. They have opportunities and wherewhithall to invest to be ahead of the curve.
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Edelman. Growth in an industry in flux - more competition than ever before and in a sluggish economy.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Edelman. The investment into their digital division is astonishing.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President MRY and 360i - they continue to win awards, have incredible clients and amazing benefits for their employees.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Edelman - relationships and brand awareness/trust Coyne - New Business Engine Bullfrog and Baum - Small and niche, but do an excellent job doing what they do better than anyone else (food)
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Edelman - their culture
List the top few agencies that you do/will compete against most often.
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Jack Morton, Gigunda, Momentum, Eventive
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Weber Jackson Spalding Edelman
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Weber Shandwick Burson-Marsteller Edelman MWW
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare WeissComm Group Ketchum Fleishman Hillard
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Edelman, Weber Shandwick, FleishmanHillard, all the Top 10 PR agencies
Lauren Arnold, Vice President Weber Edelman
Michael King VP GYMR Public Relations GMMB Porter Novelli
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor GYMR (Washington, DC-based boutique firm); Aggregate (Seattle-based digital firm); Edelman
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer Weber, Edelman, MWW
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Edelman Weber-Shandwick Fleishman-Hillard Ketchum
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations Edelman Weber
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Edelman, Weber Shandwick
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Edelman Ketchum Ogilvy Food Minds Marcus Thomas
Nelly An Business Development Manager Historically, Edelman, Fleishman-Hillard, Weber Shandwick but more and more we are going up against specialized boutique firms to large advertising agencies.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Edelman, Weber Shandwick, Ogilvy, Golin Harris, smaller B2B
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Edelman, Ketchum, Weber
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Weber Shandwick Edelman Golin Harris
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Weber, Edelman
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Based on conversations - I know we come up against Weber, Edelman and FH a lot.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr GYMR (boutique health agency) Edelman HK
In the eyes of clients, what do you provide of value, that none of your competitors do?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development We are a wonderful combination of creative and production talents - we are able to mix and match both talents to produce the most effective and efficient experiential marketing plans for our clients.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta I think that we are very well known for PR - especially B2B. Not many of our in market competitors focus on B2B communications. I think everyone knows we are bullish about media relations and can deliver those national stories based on strong media relationships. Studios was known for branding for a long time.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader The people connection -- real chemistry with the team -- and a sense of senior level involvement, beyond the 'sale'
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare As a former scientist, they know I get the science of healthcare.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Hard to say. I think we are the best consumer shop in the Top 10. Our events and experiential expertise is incredibly strong and creative too. Wea re also the "most global' global agency - with consistency across regions that no other firm can match.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President MSL Boston doesn't rely on news to secure coverage for our clients. We have a proactive, non news-reliant approach to the media and know how to proactively drive messages and influence without news. We know how to package a story and always have the necessary ingredients journalists need--whether it be sources, content, images, etc--to deliver stories with business impact. We are recognized by the journalism community for our responsiveness to their needs.
Michael King VP Industry expertise. Compared to the other public PR firms in DC, our reputation in this space outpaces theirs.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Content expertise -- we deal with very wonky topics but we do not need to be "brought up to speed" and we know the major players in our field.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer nothing
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Global Strength in speciality practices
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Cross industry experience and diversified skill set
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Superior writing and design services
Nelly An Business Development Manager We don't just talk about content marketing, we're doing it - and doing it well - for our clients. We create stories that matter, that will garner the kind of attention that a simple press release cannot. Digital is also integrated in our offering. We also have a highly skilled team, comprised of Emmy Award winners, former journalists, dieticians, politicians and everything in between. We have a strong food and beverage practice, automotive marketing experts and key leadership hires in digital/social have bolstered our credibility in that space.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Specialized knowledge and relationships in certain sectors, personal attention and clear commitment
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) purpose inspired brand building
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Fabulous talent. Insane passion.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Although our analytics program is still in its infancy, we're fulfilling a form a measurement that clients want.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager too new to the agency to respond
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Top rate digital insight and strategy
In the eyes of clients, what do your competitors provide of value, that you do not?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Sometimes they are able to quantify measurement better than we do. It is often hard and difficult to capture the success of an experiential campaign from a metrics point of view.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta They don't see us as a digital shop. They see us as traditional PR.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Ability to price well; deep bench.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Competitors may be perceived as having greater focus on social media
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Insights, strategic thinking, experience, strategic counsel
Lauren Arnold, Vice President We don't have the ability right now to provide specialized content creation, such as scientific/medical communications and health sector financial communications. We also don't have a crisis management team or an IR partner or practice that is affordable for our healthcare clients.
Michael King VP Stronger, more full-service offering (DC-based -- NOT cobbled together across multiple offices in N. America). Also, due to our niche (health policy), most of our competitors are boutique firms and therefore cheaper.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Digital prowess; cutting edge digital and graphics capabilities; lower rates; neighborhood/small firm feel
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer nothing
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Strong case studies in social/digital across all practices (iconic, risk-taking) Focus on data and research
Barrie Rosen Vice President, Media Relations Given the changing marketplace, our competition is no longer just PR agencies. Other marcomm agencies are better at demonstrating ROI.
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations senior bench strength
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Social media programs Big, creative ideas Thought leadership
Nelly An Business Development Manager Other companies have dedicated, often well-staffed measurement, analytics and insights group that we currently don't have. We lack experience in certain industries like financial, wines,
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President More talent, more resources, a look at what's around the curve, access and visibility
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Bench Strength of senior talent
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead deeper experience in digital.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President ?
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager too new to the agency to respond
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Stronger public affairs offering
Which PR firm do you most fear pitching against? Why?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Edelman is always strong, as is Fleishman Hilliard.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta I don't think we are afraid to pitch anyone, really. However, in our marketing, Enguage is known as the sexy digital shop. And if we are going up against them on a digital assignment - they are likely to be seen as the more cutting edge, social media savvy shop.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Edelman. They promise the world and convince clients they can deliver it. And, because at times they will undercut us on price, win the business and then quickly raise the price as the engagement continues.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Ogilvy - they are supposed to come across as "slick", whereas we are more "friendly and collegial" - I definitely like our style better, but I'm sure theirs "plays" well with certain audiences.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Edelman, because choosing them is like picking IBM - safe. I also greatly respect their commitment to hiring the best talent.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President While I think that MSL Boston can holds it own against the top agencies, it would be great to be able to come to the table with additional capabilities like IR counsel and measurement tools.
Michael King VP GYMR - have as strong a reputation in the health policy industry as we do, yet are more nimble and cheaper. Sometimes, we are put in a position that is is hard to defend our rate structure.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Others that offer similar value. For us, that is GYMR, (DC-based boutique firm that specializes in content-heavy health care issues and has similar clients)
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer none
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Weber-Shandwick
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Edelman They invest more in social media and thought leadership. They have more capabilities than we do and they market themselves better.
Nelly An Business Development Manager Edelman. They have a strong MnA department and great case studies.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Edelman - tremendous resources, smart people and will throw everything at it to win -- no worries about margin
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Edelman - bench strength. Weber - more innovative offerings
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Weber Shandwick. They do amazing work. And make huge investments in people and tools.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Weber, Edelman...they always seem to win pitches!
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Edelman - 800lb gorilla Any agency that has a core leadership/ expertise/ focus on an area relevant to the prospect's business.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr The small ones that have a specialty in a particular area - they're usually always cheaper
Are there any negative perceptions that prospects might have about the agency that could hold you back in new business?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Our turnover rate and our lack of specialties.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Just back to not seeing us as a digital agency and being very corporate.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Viewed as a consumer shop without a strong corporate offering.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Can't think of any
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Yes. MSLGROUP is probably the "least known" brand within the Top 10 PR agencies. Our reputation recently has taken some hits.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President There is sometimes the impression that we are a media only shop, and don't have the full breadth of services and capabilities of other agencies. We need to make sure this always is clear in new business pitches.
Michael King VP pending litigation; lack of consistent leadership; absent (this could be an opp) brand
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor High rates; big corporation mentality
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer a few might find the lawsuits a problem
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist Unstable
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Weak healthcare practice; turnover
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President In the West, the MSL brand is not well known. - LA office: has only a few staff and small client roster - SF office: known more as Schwartz than MSL - Seattle office: has no local clients; has focus only on food in a tech & business-centric market; and has done little regional brand-building since converting name from Publicis Consultants to MSL Seattle.
Nelly An Business Development Manager Expensive, too big, pitch team with SVPs that wouldn't really touch the business, reputation from years ago that may or may not still be applicable.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Lack of commitment to digital talent in market, senior staff turnover, crumby space (don't show well), lean and young team
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Too much turnover and turmoil
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead That MSL pays less than other brands (true) And that digital is not fully developed. Some problem executives keep people away.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Our size. P&G sucking resources away from other clients. We are a standard big agency with no differentiator.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Having never heard from prospects on their perception, my impression is possibly the merger with Omnicom and what it means? Also not a negative perception, but a lack of perception could hurt us.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Current lawsuit
What are the top 3 road blocks that most hold you back with new business? (check only 3)
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development
Lauren Arnold, Vice President
Michael King VP
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President
Nelly An Business Development Manager
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People)
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead
Bradley Matthews, Vice President
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr
Specifically regarding Competitive Pitches/RFPs, when you lose, what are typically the top 3 reasons? Consider both the client's expectations and how you compare to your competitive set. (check only 3)
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development
Lauren Arnold, Vice President
Michael King VP
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President
Nelly An Business Development Manager
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People)
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead
Bradley Matthews, Vice President
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr
When you win a Competitive Pitch/RFP, what do think are typically the top 3 reasons? (check only 3)
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development
Lauren Arnold, Vice President
Michael King VP
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer
Bridget Duffey, SAE, Influencer Marketing Specialist
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President
Nelly An Business Development Manager
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People)
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead
Bradley Matthews, Vice President
Specifically as a PR firm, what do you find most challenging about your new business presentations?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development There are too many people brought in to be part of the pitch team and no leader is designated and we wait to assign specific roles up until the last minute.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Finding the time and the resources to respond to new opportunities.
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Getting the right insights that will position us above our competitors
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Finding the time, people and resources to put it all together
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Our biggest challenges lie within the walls of MSLGROUP. We need to dig deeper on insights. We need to create more data driven strategies. We need to bring smaller teams to pitches. We need to tell stronger stories when we pitch.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President I would like the agency to be able to showcase team members with relevant experience and have everyone practice beforehand, be confident and full participants in the pitch.
Michael King VP Most of our new business is done via Word proposals. It is the exception for us to do a power point deck and present. More tools to help the written product look better and professional. Also,the new brand is a too whimsical for a DC clientele.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Having the resources to pull together a slick, targeted presentation that matches the strategy behind it and tells the story in an intuitive way.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer lack of resources
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Time management - balancing new business with existing client work.
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President We pull it together last minute We play it too safe
Nelly An Business Development Manager Getting to a solid strategy and less tactics-driven.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Too few seasoned thinkers in the office to develop and deliver strong pitches. Very tight on time and attention to manage business and develop strong and winning presentations
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Too many cooks in kitchen. No clear leader.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead The lack of leadership. Someone to MAKE DECISIONS. too many Indians and not enough chiefs.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Time one has to turnaround a deck (usually balancing with other client demands). Lack of clearly defined roles in preparing/delivering a pitch. Desire to go after EVERY RFP that comes through the agency's doors.
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager Balancing content vs. creative.
Bottom line, what do you think the agency most has to do to improve at new business?
Mary Cashman, Director of Business Development Empower its employees to make decisions and designate responsibilities.
Sarah Woodward Business Development Manager, Atlanta Proactive prospecting
Linda Recupero, SVP, NY Corporate Practice Leader Insights, targeting, teams.
Karin Bauer, VP Healthcare Tighten up pitch teams, reduce the number of slides in our decks, keep the presentations laser focused on what prospects want and need, don't ramble - it's about them, not us.
Mike Russell, SVP Sales and Business Development Improve our talent.
Lauren Arnold, Vice President I would like to ensure that the agency is maximizing all new business opportunities and making sure we are on the top of the list to receive RFPs. New business training like this is very helpful.
Michael King VP Brand awareness, especially in the DC-based policy and thought-leader markets. We need to show that we are more than cars and consumer products. Also, the branding needs to allow local markets to tweak that look/offering so they resonate with prospective clientele.
Katherine Brick, Senior Account Supervisor Have someone dedicated to getting the process going with the right materials and lining up not just the right team to complete the proposal and pitch, but also to execute pieces of it such as design, proofreading, etc so the pitch team can focus on other things.
Kas Rigas, Group Director, Consumer dedicated team to focus on new business who won't get dragged into account work and management
Laurie Masonson, Senior Vice President/Media Relations Allocating the right resources - from appropriate staffing to creative needs.
Mike Durand, Senior Vice President Much of our new business comes from organic growth where we are known by the existing client. With truly new prospects, we don't typically don't dedicate enough time to assembling a solid pitch. Often it is done after hours or in stolen moments with an ad hoc team. We could be more focused and thoughtful -- and invest the time & talent needed to win.
Nelly An Business Development Manager Create stunning presentations, interesting presentation styles, to be smarter about the client's business and industry.
Nancy Brennan, Senior Vice President Talent and More Time to Devote
Scott Beaudoin, SVP/Global Consumer Marketing & Global Director, PurPle (Purpose + People) Hire more bench strength.
Marcy Massura- VP, NA Digital Lead Get rid of some people who keep showing up at big key pitches. Just a waste of space.....AND find leaders. Real New Biz drivers.
Bradley Matthews, Vice President Futher tap brains around the office when ideating...I have only been invited to one new business brainstorm (Chobani).
Erika Joseph, Business Development Manager From what I've seen/heard, the biggest opportunity is proactive prospecting and closing the deal.
Cassie Katz, Biz Dev Mgr Stronger new biz strategy