Weber Shandwick partners with creative access to introduce ‘launchpad’ to boost career opportunities in communications
Weber Shandwick, the earned-first global communications agency, has partnered with Creative Access, a leading diversity, equity and inclusion social enterprise, to improve access to the communications industry for individuals from groups under-represented in the sector. The programme called Launchpad will aim to support emerging talent and increase access to media and creative roles. It forms a key partnership and emphasizes the talent strategy to intentionally drive the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion action plan at the grassroots level.
Weber Shandwick and Creative Access will work together to provide those on the programme with unique opportunities to gain practical knowledge in areas such as public relations, marketing, social media, or corporate communications and build industry connections.
This partnership will include a three-month paid summer internship at Weber Shandwick UK from July -September 2023, providing individuals with hands-on experience, exposure to real-world projects, and access to mentors from the creative industries. Creative Access is managing the recruitment process and will provide career support for those on the programme, including an induction to working in the creative industries, a “buddy” from the CA community, access to monthly masterclasses and the wider CA community, training and ongoing pastoral care.
This initiative is part of Weber Shandwick’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plan. The plan aims to create sustainable value for its clients and its people by bringing different lived experiences together to make the best possible work.
Helen Bennett, UK CEO Weber Shandwick said, “As a leading media company, we are committed to investing in the future of our profession by equipping the individuals on the programme with the tools and resources they need to excel in their careers. We believe this initiative will open doors for individuals from all backgrounds to explore different career paths, gain business insights, and make meaningful connections with industry professionals. Through our new programme with Creative Access, we want to break down the barriers to entry, so that anyone can fulfil their full potential in our industry.”
Bibi Hilton, CEO, Creative Access, said, “Communications is one of the most exciting and fastest growing areas of the creative economy. However, despite some changes in recent years, it also remains one of the least diverse. We’re very pleased to be partnering with Weber Shandwick on the new ‘Launchpad’ programme and working with them to improve the diversity of talent not just coming into Weber Shandwick but also into the wider industry.”
Weber Shandwick is one of the most celebrated earned-first agencies and has won some of the most prestigious awards in the industry, including being named to Ad Age’s A-List in 2020 and Best Places to Work in 2019.