S3 E1: Five Priorities for Marketing Managers with Nick Leighton

S3 E1: Five Priorities for Marketing Managers with Nick Leighton

Author: Public Relations Global Network | PHX.fm July 13, 2023 Duration: 23:03

The world is constantly evolving, and businesses need to adapt quickly and stay ahead of the curve to ensure success in the future. Nick Leighton discusses the priorities that marketing managers need to consider as they adapt to new challenges. He emphasizes the importance of talent acquisition and retention, the need to adapt to hybrid work environments, the evolving nature of marketing, the role of technology and AI, and the urgency of achieving net zero in business operations.

Key Takeaways

  • Talent acquisition and retention are crucial in the current business environment. Building and nurturing networks, showcasing company values, and embracing hybrid work models are essential strategies.
  • Marketing has evolved, and traditional approaches like the marketing funnel may no longer be effective. Understanding buyer behavior, collecting data, and personalizing marketing efforts are key to success.
  • Technology, particularly AI, is transforming the marketing industry. It can enhance efficiency and creativity, but it should be used responsibly and ethically.
  • Achieving net zero is a top priority for businesses. Companies should develop strategies to reduce their environmental impact and be transparent about their efforts.

About the Guest

Nick Leighton is the founder and CEO of NettResults Middle East Public Relations, an award-winning Middle East-based public relations agency launched in November 1999 with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and California. He has over 25 years of experience in media relations and marketing and has lived and worked in the United States, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. He has represented the public image of Fortune 500 companies, some of the largest nonprofit organizations in the world, political parties, and members of royalty. He is also a best-selling author.

About the Host

Abbie Fink is vice president/general manager of HMA Public Relations in Phoenix, Arizona and a founding member of PRGN. Her marketing communications background includes skills in media relations, digital communications, social media strategies, special event management, crisis communications, community relations, issues management, and marketing promotions for both the private and public sectors, including such industries as healthcare, financial services, professional services, government affairs and tribal affairs, as well as not-for-profit organizations.

PRGN Presents is brought to you by Public Relations Global Network, the world’s local public relations agency. Our executive producer is Adrian McIntyre. The show is produced by the team at Speed of Story, a B2B communications firm in Phoenix, AZ.

Follow the Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow PRGN Presents in Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Thursday. To have them delivered automatically and free of charge, just choose your preferred podcast player from this list, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://prgnpodcast.com/listen

Need to hire a PR firm?

Leading a business effectively in today's fast-paced world requires expert guidance and a strong communications strategy. No matter where you do business, PRGN has a member agency in your region with the deep industry expertise, international experience, and local market knowledge you need to connect with your target audience and achieve your goals. Find a PR firm near you »


Navigating the complex landscape of public relations requires more than just a local perspective; it demands a global understanding paired with on-the-ground expertise. That’s the core idea behind PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network. Each episode connects you directly with seasoned practitioners from this independent network, often described as the world’s local public relations agency. You’ll hear unfiltered discussions on the shifts and strategies defining modern communications, from crisis management and brand reputation to the nuances of digital marketing across different cultures. This podcast is designed for decision-makers-whether leading an international corporation, steering a non-profit, or evaluating agency partnerships-who need actionable intelligence beyond basic theory. Conversations delve into real-world case studies, emerging trends, and the practical challenges of making a message resonate authentically in diverse markets. Tune in for a candid, insider’s view that translates global PR insights into tangible advice, helping you craft communications that not only reach but genuinely engage your intended audience.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 78

PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network
Podcast Episodes
S6 E1: How to Think Like a Futurist with Terrie Ard [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:07
Abbie Fink and Terrie Ard discuss the 2025 M.Cast™ Trends Report and the importance of forward-looking thinking and data-driven insights for business leaders and communications professionals alike. Terrie shares how the…
S5 E12: PR Trends for 2025 with Gábor Jelinek [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:55
Members of the Public Relations Global Network have once again shared their predictions for the public relations industry as we look ahead to 2025. Gábor Jelinek reflects on the accuracy of last year's forecasts and disc…
S5 E11: The Magic of Unbranded Communication (in Spanish) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:12
Read the English and Spanish transcripts of this episode on the podcast website.In today’s media landscape, especially in Latin America, the way companies communicate has evolved. Traditional approaches, where a company’…
S5 E7: Creating a Culture of Creativity with Amanda Hill of Three Box [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:26
"Creativity cannot be forced; it must be invited to the party."Amanda Hill, CEO of Three Box, shares her insights on fostering a creative environment within a PR firm. She explains why leaders must prioritize creating th…
S5 E6: Navigating PR in an Election Year with David Fuscus [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:58
As the United States gears up for a significant presidential election, the political climate has become an omnipresent factor influencing journalism and PR strategies. David Fuscus, CEO of Xenophon Strategies and founder…
S5 E5: People-Centric PR: Why Understanding Your Audience is Critical [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:14
In the dynamic world of brand marketing, integrating the voices of consumers is not just a best practice — it's a necessity. In this episode, Jen Belcastro and Bill Southard explain why listening to the consumer is cruci…