Claire Newmarch: An Inspirational Communications Leader at The Very Group
In the realm of public relations and communications, Claire Newmarch stands as a beacon of excellence. With her strategic acumen and a career spanning over seven years, Claire has become a pivotal figure in shaping the external communications of major brands. Currently serving as the External Communications Manager at The Very Group, Claire’s journey is a testament to her expertise, versatility, and passion for creating impactful campaigns.
Early Career and Educational Background
Claire’s journey began with a solid educational foundation. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Linguistics from the University of Salford, graduating with a commendable 2:1 grade. Her academic endeavors laid the groundwork for her keen understanding of language, communication, and audience engagement. Claire further honed her skills with a diploma in Public Relations from the PRCA, equipping her with the tools to navigate the complexities of the PR world.
Diverse Professional Experience
Before joining The Very Group, Claire built an impressive portfolio of experience, working both agency-side and in-house. Her roles included:
Hop&Co. (January 2024 – August 2024)
As a Senior PR and Marketing Account Manager at Hop&Co., Claire was instrumental in managing client accounts and driving the agency’s growth. Her role involved strategic planning, relationship building, and delivering measurable results for a variety of clients.
Refresh Public Relations (October 2021 – January 2024)
During her tenure at Refresh PR, Claire excelled as a PR Account Manager, handling B2C and B2B clients such as Aqua Pura, MyGlazing.com, and Culture Shift. Her responsibilities spanned media engagement, content marketing, and influencer relations, showcasing her ability to craft compelling narratives that resonated with diverse audiences.
Red Havas UK (February 2020 – October 2021)
At Red Havas, Claire advanced her career as a PR Account Manager and Writer, collaborating with high-profile clients like Greggs, TalkTalk, and Pringles. Her expertise in crisis management and strategic planning ensured the success of numerous campaigns.
Co-op (March 2017 – February 2020)
Claire’s in-house experience at Co-op further solidified her credentials. Starting as a Graduate PR Apprentice, she climbed the ranks to become a Junior Press Officer, contributing significantly to the company’s public relations efforts.
Current Role at The Very Group
In September 2024, Claire assumed the role of External Communications Manager at The Very Group. Based in Manchester, she oversees corporate communications and media relations for one of the UK’s leading digital retailers, which operates popular brands like Very and Littlewoods. Her strategic approach ensures that The Very Group’s messaging aligns with its mission and resonates with stakeholders.
Skills and Expertise
Claire’s diverse experience has endowed her with a robust skill set, including:
- Strategic Public Relations Planning: Crafting campaigns that deliver strong ROI and exceed KPIs.
- Media Relations: Building and maintaining relationships with media outlets to secure impactful coverage.
- Digital Strategy: Leveraging social media and digital platforms to amplify brand visibility.
- Crisis Management: Navigating challenging situations with tact and precision.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Fostering relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive organizational goals.
Achievements and Impact
Throughout her career, Claire has consistently demonstrated her ability to achieve remarkable results. Her campaigns have not only enhanced brand awareness but also delivered tangible business outcomes. At The Very Group, her contributions continue to shape the company’s reputation as a leader in digital retail.
The Human Side of Claire Newmarch
Beyond her professional achievements, Claire is known for her dedication to fostering meaningful connections. Her colleagues describe her as a team player who inspires others with her enthusiasm and commitment. Outside of work, Claire’s interests include exploring innovative marketing trends and mentoring aspiring PR professionals.
The Future of Communications
As the landscape of public relations evolves, professionals like Claire Newmarch are at the forefront of driving change. Her ability to adapt to emerging trends, coupled with her passion for storytelling, ensures that she remains a valuable asset in the industry.
In conclusion, Claire Newmarch exemplifies the qualities of a successful communications leader. Her journey from academic excellence to professional acclaim reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft. As she continues to make waves at The Very Group and beyond, Claire’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and enduring impact in the world of public relations.
