'Where Practice Meets Academia' event to bring together leading PR practitioners and academics

A trailblazing event - ‘Where Practice Meets Academia’ - seeks to break down historic gaps between academia and practice in the PR and communications industry. Organised jointly by Leeds Beckett University and Newcastle University and supported by The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), the free, in-person event on Tuesday, 9th May at the offices of Four Communications in London will bring together practitioners, students, and academics.

The UK has a rich legacy of contributing to and driving research in the field of public relations and communication management on a global level. However, the industry practice remains largely separated from the knowledge communities. This event aims to bring together academic and practice networks and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The event includes a panel discussion on the 'Future of PR', a presentation by Stephen Waddington on bridging theory and practice, and a panel discussion with Newcastle University alumni. The occasion will conclude with a presentation on Global Student Voice Research Spring 2023, which aims to find new ways of working in public relations from the perspective of emerging young professionals.

Leeds Beckett University, Head of Subject: Marketing, Public Relations and Journalism Dr. Nick Halafihi, said:

“Leeds Business School has contributed noted scholars and practitioners to the public relations profession and is proud to continue to build on their work connecting practice and academia. We are thrilled to have our students play an active part in bridging the gap by collaborating with practitioners and look forward to the discussions at the event.”

Co-Heads of Subject, Museum, Culture and Heritage, at Newcastle University, Dr Joanne Sayner and Sarah Drummond, said:

“This is such an important and timely event in which we are really pleased to be involved. The alumni panel showcases the very best and bravest academic practice of self-reflection and of learning for the future. And our current Newcastle University students will benefit hugely from meaningful contact with their peers, professionals and through hands-on practice.”

PRCA Deputy Director General Renna Markson said:

“We are thrilled to collaborate with CIPR, Leeds Beckett University and Newcastle University for this event. ‘Where Practice Meets Academia’ will facilitate an important conversation between researchers and practitioners, closing the gap between industry practice and academic knowledge. We believe this event will encourage collaboration and ultimately benefit the industry as a whole.”

CIPR CEO, Alastair McCapra, said:

"This year PR is facing some major new challenges. Confidence in politics and business is at historic lows. News has been disrupted almost beyond recognition. Conspiracy theories abound and new technology threatens to hurl us all at great speed into an ultra-low trust environment. The need to renew our thinking and prepare for a different future and different practices is urgent. This event couldn't be more timely in bringing together researchers and practitioners."