I was appointed to manage communications for EconPol Europe, a network of 14 institutions in 12 European countries led by the ifo Institute, shortly after the network was launched.

The network was founded in spring 2017 and funded by the German Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF). Its aim was to provide independent evidence-based policy advice to inform economic and fiscal policy debate in Europe.

My role with EconPol covered the whole communications spectrum. I was responsible for developing and delivering strategy and meeting BMF objectives, which were regularly exceeded.

Network leader ifo Institute is a globally recognised and highly respected organisation. My first task was to develop a strong and independent identity for EconPol Europe to establish its reputation as a standalone network and maximise visibility.

This involved working closely with the leadership team at the ifo Institute and and all network members to develop a comprehensive and cohesive strategy and ensure its implementation.

The strategic development and delivery of all associated multi-channel campaigns, including an international PR campaign, were demonstrably successful. Engagement increased steadily month-on-month across all channels throughout the three-year lifecycle of the project.

Coverage was regularly achieved in major international newspapers, magazines and TV channels. International journalists and editors attended EconPol Europe events, both live and online.

As well as the flagship annual conference, live events regularly took place in Brussels including Parliamentary breakfasts and lunch debates. I worked closely with the CESifo conference and events team to stage these events, ensuring a strong focus on the EconPol brand in all public-facing material.

During the pandemic, all events were moved online (including the annual conference). I managed all aspects of these events, from guest liaison to web content and creating branded material.

When the initial funding period ended, EconPol Europe was absorbed into the CESifo network. Its current branding and output reflects the end of the original project and renewed focus as part of the CESifo network.

Key aspects of my role with EconPol included:

Developing and delivering all aspects of the communications strategy, in collaboration with the senior leadership team at the ifo Institute and all international network members

Liaising with internal teams and external partners throughout the network to effectively deliver all aspects of the communications strategy

Managing live and virtual events, including annual conferences, lunch debates and joint events with partner networks

Orchestrating and managing international multi-media PR campaigns

Working with the design and web teams to create a strong and recognisable brand system and templates

Creating branded print and online content for marketing and events

Writing all content for multi-channel campaigns, including all web content and original material based on the network’s research

Managing production of audio-visual content, including video interviews with key figures and guests 

All social media content, including images and live streams