Registration and Morning Coffee
MEPRA Welcome Speech by Kate Midttun, Founder & CEO of Acorn Strategy
Opening Keynote: Navigating Permacrisis in a Polarized World
Join Farnaz Khadem, Stanford University's Vice President for University Communications, for a dynamic keynote on safeguarding your reputation in an age of Permacrisis. Explore authentic strategies for taking a stand on societal issues and gain insights into effective crisis planning. In this engaging conversation, we'll also delve into the crucial skills needed for adept crisis communicators, equipping you with essential tools to navigate the complexities of our polarized world.
Farnaz Khadem, Vice President for University Communications, Stanford University
How to Manage AI-Fueled Crises: A Comprehensive Guide for Leaders
In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the emergence of AI technologies has revolutionized how organizations manage communications, bringing new challenges, particularly in crisis management. In this engaging and insightful session, Peter Heneghan, an esteemed expert with a wealth of experience from his tenure at 10 Downing Street and as Co-Founder & CEO of The Future Communicator, will delve into the complexities of AI-fueled crises. Participants will explore the intricacies of AI-driven crises, identifying potential threats such as deepfakes and misinformation, and learn proactive strategies to implement AI tools for monitoring, predicting, and mitigating crises. The session will also cover real-time response techniques, ethical considerations for transparency and trust, and real-world case studies showcasing successful strategies. Join Peter Heneghan for a comprehensive look at effectively managing crises in the age of AI, equipping your organization with the tools and knowledge to stay resilient amidst technological challenges.
Peter Heneghan, Former Deputy Director of Digital Communications, 10 Downing Street; Co-Founder & CEO, The Future Communicator
AI-Powered Reputation Management: Transforming Communications in the Digital Era
In this session, we delve into the dynamic landscape of reputation and brand management, exploring how AI technologies are revolutionizing communication strategies. From sentiment analysis to predictive modeling, discover the innovative ways AI can assist in monitoring, analyzing, and shaping public perception. Join us as we explore practical applications and case studies showcasing the power of AI in safeguarding and enhancing your organization's reputation in an increasingly interconnected world.
Rachel Dunn, Communications Director, Microsoft Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa
Magdalena Stepien, Communications Lead, Microsoft Middle East
Lunch for Speakers and Delegates
Greenwashing & Ethical Messaging: Authentic Sustainability Communication and Avoiding Greenwashing Allegations
Dive into the realm of authentic sustainability communication with Camilla as she navigates the intricacies of Greenwashing & Ethical Messaging. In this enlightening session, explore the nuances of crafting genuine sustainability messages while steering clear of greenwashing allegations. Gain valuable insights into building trust through transparent communication practices and learn how to effectively communicate your organization's sustainability efforts with integrity and credibility. Join Camilla for an engaging discussion on fostering authenticity in sustainability communication and making a meaningful impact in the fight against greenwashing.
Camilla d'Abo, EVP Communications & Content, BPG Group & Board Member, The Middle East PR Association Sustainability Committee
Proactive Crisis Management: Recognizing and Addressing Emerging Challenges
In the era of instantaneous news dissemination, the ability to discern between issues and crises is paramount for effective crisis management across industries. Join us for an insightful presentation that delves into the nuances of distinguishing when a situation escalates from an issue to a full-blown crisis, irrespective of sector. Led by international crisis expert Sharan Kaur, participants will gain practical insights and actionable approaches to navigate crises effectively. This session is designed to empower attendees with the tools necessary to fortify crisis preparedness and resilience in today's rapidly evolving landscape.
Sharan Kaur, International Crisis Expert
Networking and Refreshment Break
The Golden Rules of Crisis Communications: Navigating Change and Mastering the Essentials
Join Donald Steel, former Chief Communications Adviser at the BBC, as he explores the evolution of crisis communications and reveals the most important rules for navigating today's complex communication landscape. Discover how the fundamental principles have shifted, what top rules every leader must know, and gain practical insights to ensure your organization remains prepared and resilient in the face of any crisis. Learn from real-world examples and build your toolkit for effective crisis management.
Donald Steel, Former Chief Communications Adviser, BBC
End of Day One
Morning Coffee
Revitalizing Your Crisis Plan: A Real-Life Scenario Workshop with Donald Steel
Join us for a transformative Crisis Simulation Workshop led by esteemed crisis communication expert, Donald Steel, as we dive into the ever-changing landscape of crisis communications in a post-pandemic world. In this extended session, we'll focus on the crucial process of updating your crisis plan with real-life scenarios, ensuring your organization remains resilient and adaptable in the face of modern challenges.
This immersive workshop combines established best practices with innovative approaches, empowering crisis communicators to effectively support those affected by crises and protect their organization's reputation. You'll engage in hands-on exercises, collaborating with your peers to navigate complex crisis scenarios that involve social media, media interviews, and delicate press conferences.
By the conclusion of this workshop, you'll walk away with:
- Donald's top ten crisis communication strategies tailored to the post-pandemic era.
- A concrete plan to enhance your leadership team's preparedness for crisis communication.
- A heightened understanding of effective communication in today's increasingly assertive environment.
Upon completing the workshop, you'll be equipped to:
- Understand the crucial connection between pre-crisis preparation and swift crisis response.
- Possess the skills to evaluate and adapt your organization's social media communication style during crises.
- Be proficient in handling assertive question types during crisis media interviews.
- Be well-prepared to update and revise your organization's crisis communication plan based on the valuable insights gained during the workshop.
Don't miss this opportunity to fortify your crisis preparedness and embrace the future of crisis communications with confidence.
About Your Workshop Leader:
Donald Steel, Vice President, Crisis Communications, Kenyon International Emergency Services and Former Chief Communications Adviser at the BBC
Donald Steel has built a global reputation as a crisis communicator. For more than 25 years he has given strategic counsel to organisations and high profile individuals in a range of serious situations, including aircraft incidents, terrorism, kidnapping, serious accidents, executive and personal misconduct, fraud, litigation and inquests and serious regulatory and diplomatic issues.
He was for 11 years, the chief media spokesman of the BBC.
In his own practice, based in London, he worlds with a range of corporate, government, NGO and individual clients across the UK, Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, North America and Asia Pacific and Australasia. His clients includes airlines, hospitals, universities, hotel groups, UN agencies, orchestras, the Eurovision Song Contest, arts venues and high profile artistes.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations in London and of the Royal Society of Arts. He is a regular guest lecturer at the London School of Economics and the China Media Centre of the University of Westminster.
Alongside his own practice, last year he was appointed Vice President, Crisis Communications at Kenyon International Emergency Services, the worlds longest serving and most admired responder to incidents involving fatality and injury. Based in Houston, Berkshire (UK), Beirut and Santo Domingo, Kenyon’s clients range from leading airlines, cruise companies, hotel groups, governments, police forces, local authorise and companies across the world who work in high risk situations. In this role, Donald leads a team of senior crisis communicators based around the world, ready to respond to clients.
He was a member of Aviation Futures, a recent think tank of the UK Civil Aviation Authority supporting the CAA on planning the regulation of future developments in aviation.
