MIPAA

Pushing and Pulling: emerging trends in news distribution and media monitoring

Heather Yaxley — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:12:53 +0000

This free Professional Practice Seminar offers insight into latest research regarding media preferences for receiving news and other company information, as well as looking at emerging technologies and effective monitoring methodologies.

Expert knowledge of media distribution and monitoring will be provided by representatives from Newspress and Meltwater - which has recently achieved success, alongside the PRCA, in challenging the NLA at the Copyright Tribunal.

The early evening event (1730-2000) on Wednesday 28 March, is relevant for anyone working in media communications in the motor industry.

With thanks to Peugeot for hosting at its Coventry HQ and providing light refreshments for informal networking.

Places are limited, so confirm your attendance now.

PR Manager – Institute of the Motor Industry

Heather Yaxley — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:06:13 +0000

Job title:	PR Manager
Company:	The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI)
Location:	Brickendon, Hertfordshire
Salary:	£28,000-30,000 pa + benefits
Description of position available:	Reporting to the Communications Manager, the PR Manager is responsible for: Building the profile and managing the corporate image and reputation of the IMI across all media, stakeholder groups and automotive sector in general. Raising awareness and engagement of the IMI group throughout the retail motor industry, education sector, Government agencies and other relevant influencers, in support of its business objectives
Key tasks and responsibilities:	Raise awareness and position the IMI as the champion of the individuals employed in the retail motor industry and highlighting the need for ethical competence Raise awareness and position the IMI as the Sector Skills Council for the retail motor industry, responsible for supporting the sector in raising skills levels Respond to media enquiries for the IMI group and act as spokesperson where appropriate Provide informative comment to the media and other industry platforms on key industry issues relevant to the IMI group Secure positive exposure for the IMI group across all media through the production of news releases, case studies and comment Secure interviews and commentary for the Executive Chair and other senior executives Research and produce presentations and speeches for the senior team Publish the IMI Annual Report and associated communication updates for the Group Board, Vice Presidents and other key stakeholders Inform and maintain dialogue with relevant Government departments and regional agencies regarding SSC progress and seek PR opportunities as appropriate Assist with the development, maintenance and monitoring of online social networking opportunities Contribute to other IMI communications collateral including promotional materials, websites and the IMI magazine as required Track and evaluate IMI media coverage, provide insight and analysis and distribute to relevant staff
Limits of authority:	Responsibility for planning and managing the PR budget
Experience and skills required	Ability to identify and maximise PR opportunities Strong communication skills including presentation skills Creative writing skills Ability to work under pressure to time sensitive deadlines Ability to assimilate complex information Working knowledge of design, photography, publishing Campaign/event management Essential experience Proven experience of working in PR in-house and/or in consultancy Evidence of working under pressure and to deadlines Experience of working alone and as part of a team
Desirable experience, knowledge and qualifications:	Degree in public relations, media or marketing discipline or equivalent work experience Knowledge and understanding of the media and how it works Knowledge and interest in the retail motor industry
More info and applications:	Closing dates for this role is Monday 27 February by close of business. First interviews will be held week commencing 26th March. Please email Cheryl Kennaird for an application form cherylk@motor.org.uk or call 01992 511521.

Record number expected at 2012 CV Show Media Reception

Heather Yaxley — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:04:59 +0000

The popular MIPAA CV Show Media Reception on Monday 23 April 2012 is expected to attract a record number of people.

Exceeding the 70+ attendees in 2011 (50% specialist media guests), will ensure the event, at JD Wetherspoons in the NEC Piazza, offers a great opportunity to catch up and network with colleagues and specialist media attending the 2012 CV Show.

Book your tickets online now (£30.00 per person including refreshments and 20% VAT) – guests welcome.

Media invited by MIPAA are free of charge

MIPAA provides social media tips for car dealers

Heather Yaxley — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:31:31 +0000

Retailers trying to get to grips with a digital deluge on Twitter and Facebook should turn to the latest edition of Car Dealer Magazine which features a list of social media Top Tips provided by MIPAA.

“When the call went out from Dave Brown at Car Dealer Magazine we were delighted to share our social media experience gained running workshops for manufacturers, suppliers and retailers since 2007”, explains Al Clarke, Chairman of MIPAA.

“In a connected world where consumers can publish comments 24/7 you need a plan. It’s no use leaving your brand’s reputation to chance, or even worse, a well-meaning but poorly trained social media enthusiast in your business.

“MIPAA has been leading the social media discussion for the last five years – sharing knowledge and experience with marketing and PR practitioners across all areas of the motor industry. Several of those leading adoption of the new technologies started their social journey with MIPAA and continue to share their experience with fellow members at our regular events.

“If the article in Car Dealer Magazine sparks an interest to know more about social media, MIPAA is offering a Spring Series of workshops, seminars and forums run by the industry for the industry. With prices from £50 for a hands-on session, you won’t find better value, expert training anywhere else. Visit the MIPAA website – www.mipaa.com– for details and online booking.”

MIPAA’s advice in Car Dealer Magazine focuses on six key steps all retailers can follow – based on the successful social media experience of motor industry PR practitioners:

Secure your brand – create professional branded presence in the key locations: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+, YouTube
Complete your profiles – the ‘elevator pitch’ opportunity to make sure you can be found
Have a clear purpose – are you offering valuable information, connecting with customers, seeking new prospects or building a reputation? Be focused. Don’t just broadcast sales offers
Build contacts – develop a good reputation and brand advocacy (referrals) by having a dialogue, offering valuable content and being human
Tailor your content – different social media have different approaches. Use appropriate language and methods of engagement.
Keep learning – this is evolving territory and new opportunities emerge all the time. Connect with industry organisations such as @MIPAA to keep up to date

See the MIPAA calendar for details of the Spring Social Media Season.

Press Office Assistant – Kia (Student Placement)

Heather Yaxley — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:03:54 +0000

Job title:	Press Office Assistant – One year student placement
Company:	Kia Motors (UK) Limited
Location:	Weybridge, Surrey
Salary:	£16,000 per annum (pro-rata)
The opportunity:	Kia is one of the fastest growing automotive brands in the world and part of the fourth largest automotive group in the world. With record annual sales for the past six years the UK is no exception. This year is set to be our biggest yet as our stunning design-led product offensive continues with the launch of several major all-new cars. Kia UK’s Press Office ensures that the media is fully up-to-speed about our brand and we are consistently rated by our automotive media customers as one of the very best in the business at doing so – in fact, in 2011, we were ranked number one. We’re looking for someone to join our enthusiastic, focused and friendly team and take on the challenge of delivering exceptional service to the media in what will be a very busy (but very enjoyable!) time for us. Students who have previously held this role have gone on to successful PR roles – although that will depend on you!
Job description:	Our Press Office team works on all aspects of automotive PR and if you joined us you would be no different – you would be an integral part of the team and be in front of the media from day one. Whilst here you would have the chance to put into practice the theory you’ve learnt so far, contribute your ideas to the team’s plans and to take responsibility for your own PR projects that we would support you to develop. Here is a broad overview of what the role involves: Dealing with all types of media enquiries and liaising with all business departments and suppliers. Supporting the Communications Director and three Press Officers to achieve a best-in-class service to the UK media. Running your own PR / CSR projects and developing the media exposure these projects receive. Assisting with the implementation of major media events and being part of the team representing the brand during the event. Monitoring media coverage and reporting back to Senior Management.
Person specification:	You’ll need to be flexible and have an ability to turn your hand to more or less anything as that is what the media expect from us. You’ll be comfortable with managing several priorities at once and have a positive, can-do attitude. The team is hard-working, enthusiastic and motivated so we’re looking for someone who will fit in with that. We’re a small team, with a lot to do, so if you’re ambitious and show initiative there’s plenty of scope to get a lot out of this year. An interest in cars is certainly desirable but by no means essential – we’re more interested in your ability to help us portray the brand to the media in the best possible way. As you’ll be dealing with the media we would expect you to have excellent written and oral communication skills as well as an eye for detail and an ability to be proactive at all times. A full UK driving licence (although not necessarily a car) and a passport are required for this role as you will be required to travel within the UK and abroad.
Terms of employment:	The successful candidate will join us for a placement period of between 40 and 52 weeks and, along with their basic salary, will receive: 24 days holiday (pro-rated if placement is less than 52 weeks) Personal Private Healthcare Free lunch at our Head Office in Weybridge, Surrey The salary for this position is £16,000 per annum (pro-rated if placement is less than 52 weeks).
More info and applications:	If you are interested in this opportunity, please send your current CV along with a covering letter, outlining why you are interested in the position, to Kevin Oxlade, HR Advisor at careers@kia.co.uk. Alternatively, please post your application to: Mr Kevin Oxlade, Human Resources, Kia Motors (UK) Limited, 2 The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 ONY The closing date for applications is March 30^th 2012 and we expect to hold interviews during April and May. The placement will start in July 2012.

Who’s who on the MIPAA 2012 Board of Directors

Heather Yaxley — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:14:49 +0000

There’s a new look to the MIPAA Limited Board of Directors for 2012; with two fresh faces and the creation of a new Communications Director post.

The world’s largest network of professional motor industry communicators, MIPAA Limited, has boosted its Board of Directors by adding the post of Communications Director. Chairman, Al Clarke, a communications consultant, is joined on the board by two new faces. Belle Moss, Executive Director at consultancy, Automotive PR becomes Membership Director, with a focus on reaching out to PR practitioners in the service and supplier sector. Wayne Bruce, European Communications Director at Infiniti, takes on the new role of Communications Director.

Re-elected for 2012 are Mike Orford from SEAT UK, who has moved into the Deputy Chairman’s seat, and Nick Perry from Porsche Cars (GB) remaining as Finance Director. Heather Yaxley, ex‑officio Director and Company General Secretary completes membership of the Board.

“In a 24:7 multi-media world it is essential to maximise communications and creating a Communications Director post enables MIPAA to raise its profile as the motor industry PR skills and networking hub,” explains Al Clarke. “We’re also reaching out to attract members in sectors such as commercial vehicles, components, motorsport and through the supply chain in dealerships, consultancies and service providers.”

“MIPAA has a reputation for supporting members in four key areas; training, knowledge, networking and careers, which we deliver by accessing industry experience and expertise. Last year saw a record level of participation by members from the annual PR Masterclass to free initiatives including Professional Practice Seminars and our new ‘@’ branded social events.”

“We recognise the cost and time-pressures PR practitioners face by delivering cost-effective professional development activities and access to a dynamic community of motor industry communicators.”

“Online and face-to-face networking is at the heart of what we do, with regular social and professional membership experiences open to anyone working in the motor industry sector.

Notes:

The Motor Industry Public Affairs Association (www.mipaa.com) Limited comprises 400 professional communicators who represent major automotive brands, vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, consultancies and other institutions connected with the sector, in the UK and overseas. It helps members in four key areas:

Training – sharing and developing skills using unique industry expertise

Careers – developing talent and keeping members informed of job opportunities

Knowledge – sharing ideas and tips to save time and resources

Networking – events to help communicators do their jobs better

MIPAA was founded in 1968 and is affiliated with the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA) and Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR)

The Hub – Issue #9

Heather Yaxley — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:37:42 +0000

Press laws should be left as they are, says Hislop

Private Eye editor Ian Hislop has told the Leveson enquiry into media ethics that he believes new laws to regulate the media should not be introduced. Hislop argues that the current laws are sufficient – instead it should be investigated why they were allowed to be broken so many times without penalty. The outcome of the enquiry could have repercussions for journalists at all levels, if the balance between privacy/censorship and freedom of speech/a free press weighs too far in favour of the former. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16591790

Media mogul taps into Twitter

You’re never too old to learn something new, so they say. Perhaps that’s why 80-year old News Corporation founder and CEO Rupert Murdoch has this year taken the plunge into the interactive world of social media by setting up a Twitter page. Of course, his arrival on the SM scene (no, not THAT sort of SM scene…) has provoked a flurry of commentary, such as this tongue-in-cheek list of Twitter Tips for the newcomer courtesy of The Guardian’s Helen Lewis-Hastely. Mind you, much of her advice is sound stuff for any Twitter novice – most notably point 1: ‘Search and Update are not the same thing’. We’ve all been there…

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/jan/02/rupert-murdoch-twitter-tips

http://twitter.com/rupertmurdoch

Social media – what’s in store for 2012?

January always seems like a sensible time to throw your predictions into the ring for the 12 months ahead. Here, TNW (The Next Web) focuses on social media, and predicts a major clash between Google and Facebook, a move towards mobile-only social media usage, and how social media will become a natural extension to journalism, among other topics.

http://thenextweb.com/socialmedia/2012/01/02/what-2012-holds-for-social-media/?awesm=tnw.to_1CQwD&utm_campaign=social%20media&utm_medium=Spreadus&utm_source=Twitter&utm_content=What%202012%20holds%20for%20social%20media

Social media disasters 2011

The world of social media can be a big scary place for the careless explorer. In this summary of 2011, mashable.com looks at some of the most toe-curling moments of the past year. There are sure to be more to come in 2012 – hopefully we’re not part of them!

http://mashable.com/2011/12/31/social-media-disasters-2011/

Man sued for keeping Followers

In a previous issue of The Hub we highlighted the thorny issue of who keeps that hard-won clan of Twitter Followers when a figurehead for a company moves on. The case of Noah Kravitz is potentially a landmark moment for this issue, as he is being sued by his former employers Phonedog for taking 17,000 Followers with him when he left the building. We’re not talking insignificant sums either: $2.50 (£1.60) per Follower, for a total of $370,000. Ouch…

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-16338040

Social magazine applications:

If you find yourself darting between Facebook, Twitter, the news, etc while on your iPad or smartphone, then it might be worth looking at a social magazine app, such as Flipboard. These amalgamate content from those aforementioned areas into something resembling a half-decent magazine – except in this case it could be a photo from your Aunty Brenda’s Christmas party, thoughtfully posted on Facebook, that is randomly selected for the front cover…

Social magazine applications:

Three of the best:
1 Flipboard
2 Zite
3 Newsmix

Aston Martin – Product Communications Manager

Heather Yaxley — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:11:08 +0000

Job title:	Product Communications Manager
Company:	Aston Martin Lagonda Limited
Location:	Gaydon, Warwickshire
Salary:	Competitive
Core Responsibilities	Increase awareness of Aston Martin brand through contribution to and implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy Lead responsibility for Product, Heritage, and Motorsport; effectively communicate with global media audience Seek appropriate global PR opportunities; leverage Aston Martin as a luxury brand Establish and maintain excellent relationships with members of the international, national and regional media – develop existing and forge new Devise and deliver communications launch strategy for future product life cycle; devise international & regional launch plans to achieve maximum high quality targeted coverage across a variety of media platforms Deliver high quality, targeted international media coverage appropriately timed to support sales targets, maximising editorial share of voice, creating desire and aspiration by generating positive editorial comment across a variety of media platforms most relevant to target customers Ensure creation of appropriate tools and mechanisms to effectively communicate all product news to a global media audience Lead HQ product communication and ensure regional coordination & consistency of message Lead heritage communications strategy; leverage heritage to support growth of brand awareness Lead organisation and ensure flawless delivery of media events Support development of media in new/developing markets; work with regional teams to achieve consistency of message Ensure use of UK press fleet maximised to deliver timely, targeted media coverage Managed departmental budgets, forecast future requirements and deliver plans within budget. Responsible for PR team and directly reports to Brand Communications Director.
Skills/ Qualifications/ Experience:	Degree level of education or equivalent with communications experience preferred Minimum five years previous PR experience with other luxury or automotive brand essential Excellent written and verbal communication skills with flair for PR writing Excellent working knowledge of communication techniques and practices Interest in and enthusiasm for cars and motorsport Ability to prioritise and organise workload of self and others in a methodical manner Experience of working in high pressurised environment working to tight deadlines
Application details:	Send CV to: cludlow@astonmartin.com

Talent Wanted: Motor Industry PR vacancies

Heather Yaxley — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:42:04 +0000

Job title:	In-house and Consultancy vacancies at Executive and Manager level
Company:	Various
Location:	UK and overseas
Salary:	Competitive
Opportunities	JobSearch is frequently contacted by companies looking for talent to fill automotive PR vacancies. These jobs are “off the radar” – so if you are interested in new opportunities or would like to be kept informed of any suitable vacancies, send your CV to the MIPAA Job Co-ordinator in confidence.
Skills/ Qualifications/ Experience:	Employers generally request: Degree level of education or equivalent with communications experience preferred Excellent written and verbal communication skills with flair for PR writing Knowledge of communication techniques and practices (increasingly including social media strategies) Interest in and enthusiasm for cars and motorsport Motivation and experience of working in high pressurised environments working to tight deadlines
Application details:	Send CV to MIPAA JobSearch co-ordinator: Andy@performancepr.co.uk

Boris Johnson wins 2012 MIPAA Chairman’s Award

Heather Yaxley — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:23:55 +0000

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has won the prestigious MIPAA Chairman’s award for his efforts in promoting electric vehicles. The accolade recognises an outstanding contribution to public relations and has previously been presented to Robert Llewellyn, Chris Evans, Ken Gibson, Lord March, Ewan McGregor / Charlie Boorman, and Jeremy Clarkson.

Accepting the award on his behalf Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor’s director of Environment, said: “Bringing electric vehicles to the capital is a key part of the Mayor’s goal of delivering cleaner air for London.

“We will have 1,300 charge points in the capital by 2013 through our Source London network, making electric motoring even more accessible to drivers, and ultimately aim to ensure no Londoner is more than a mile from a charge point.

“The Mayor’s determination over the last four years to support this clean, green technology has enabled us to achieve significant mileage in pushing both manufacturers and Government to deliver cars and policies that have put London and Britain well on the way to electric vehicle motoring.”

MIPAA Chairman, Al Clarke praised the Mayor’s leadership in championing electric vehicles:

“As Mayor of London, Boris Johnson has increased the profile of electric vehicles and promoted the benefits they can bring in modern cities. His pioneering and practical approach has boosted interest in this exciting period in electric vehicle motoring and enabled other cities to gain from London’s lead. The MIPAA Chairman’s Award is due recognition of the Mayor’s commitment to supporting sustainable transport.”