Unite 24 | Mergers & Acquisitions: Communicating in times of change with YouGov, WSP and Joanna Parsons

What you'll learn:

• The distinctions and overlaps between change communications and internal communications.
• Strategies for integrating cultures, processes, and people during M&A.
• The importance of a "people-first" approach and tailored messaging in reducing change fatigue.
• Best practices for leveraging communication channels to unify diverse teams.
• Techniques to foster trust and authenticity in leadership communications.
• How to align communication efforts with organizational goals to drive success.

Speakers:

• Rebecca Bainbridge, Head of Internal Communications and Employer Branding, YouGov
  Rebecca is an internal communications leader with experience in large and mid-sized, rapid growth businesses where M&A, change management and organizational redesign have been key areas of focus. As Head of Internal Communications and Employer Branding at YouGov, over five years she built a global team from scratch, advising on change communications across several transformation projects at a time of vast growth for the company. This includes the largest M&A the company has ever seen, the first CEO transition and the launch of a brand-new digital workplace. Prior to YouGov, Rebecca has a wealth of experience working in IC across professional services, legal and real estate sectors.
• Natalie Lord, Head of Internal Communications, WSP UK
  Natalie is a passionate internal communications leader, who thrives on bringing organization vision and values to life through impactful and engaging communications. As Head of Internal Communications at WSP in the UK and Africa, Natalie has spearheaded internal communication through periods of significant change for the business, including organizational and digital transformation, acquisitions and workplace culture following the pandemic. Before joining WSP, Natalie honed her internal communications experience working across a broad range of sectors, including roles with global and national household brands.
• Joanna Parsons, CEO, The Curious Route
  Joanna Parsons is the Founder and Director of The Curious Route, an internal communications consultancy. Joanna helps organizations create effective systems of internal communication through training, coaching and consulting. Her curiosity-first approach emphasizes listening, questioning and observing to identify solutions and create results.