16 Jan 2025
Join us at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre for the first masterclass focused on managing reputation in the high-stakes world of defence and security communications
Focusing on communication and marketing professionals in defence and security
Reputation Masterclass 2025 is designed to equip you with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to thrive in a complex and evolving landscape, whether you’re in the private sector or working in the UK Ministry of Defence.
Why attend
In today’s unpredictable climate, managing public perception and protecting organisational reputation in defence and security is more critical than ever. This masterclass, guided by top industry leaders, is designed to deliver actionable insights and hands-on strategies for managing reputation risks and engaging stakeholders.
We've developed this masterclass based on the challenges and opportunities shared with us.
- Build on your existing communications strategy
- Prepare for success at DSEI 2025
- Navigate stakeholder relationships with confidence
- Connect with peers who face similar challenges
- Log 10 CIPR CPD points
The Venue
The Agenda
Speakers
Jerome Starkey
Defence Editor, The Sun
Rachael Clamp
Past CIPR President, Founding Director of Ardesey
Philip Ingram
MBE, lead host and panel chair
Dr Elizabeth Newman-Earl
CEO, e50K Strategic Advisory
Heledd Kendrick
Founder and CEO, Recruit for Spouses
Helena Holden
Marketing and Communications Delivery Lead, Canny Comms
James Watson
Area Director, Defence at Make UK
Rachael Bilecki
Head of Marcomms, Concurrent
Nathan Jones
Former RAF pilot & Founder of Peak State
Davs Howard
Technical Director, Major Digital
Pricing
Standard
£250 + VAT
All proceeds will go to military charities, SSAFA and Heropreneurs.
Discounted
- Canny Comms Clients
£175 + VAT (30% discount) - ADS Group Members
£200 + VAT (20% discount) - Make UK Defence Members
£200 + VAT (20% discount) - CIPR Members
£225 + VAT (10% discount) - Email info@canny-comms.co.uk to request the relevant discount code.
Additional
- MOD
Complimentary (email us info@canny-comms.co.uk to receive your access code)
Why is Canny Comms organising this conference?
As communications professionals in defence and security, we all know the unique challenges our sector faces. That's why we're investing our expertise, network, and resources to create something special for our community – Reputation Masterclass 2025.
After years of supporting defence comms and marketing pros, we've seen the same challenges arise time and again. Rather than keep our insights to ourselves, we're bringing together the very best of our network to share knowledge, build capabilities, and strengthen our entire sector.
This isn't a commercial venture – it's our way of giving back. Every penny of profit will be donated to the military charities SSAFA and Heropreneurs, turning professional development into community impact.
Date: 16 January 2025
Time: 09:30 arrival for a 10:00 start – 17:00 finish
Location: Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre
CPD points: 10 CIPR CPD points
Dress: Business casual
Food: Lunch and refreshments included
Draft Agenda
09:30 – 10:00
Networking & welcome tea & coffee.
10:00 – 10:05
Opening remarks, Helena Holden, delivery lead, Canny Comms.
10:05 – 10:10
Introduction and overview of the day, Philip Ingram (host), security journalist.
10:10 - 11:00
Keynote: The front line of reporting – media perspectives on defence & security. An exploration of media coverage of conflict and the defence industry, with guidance on effective collaboration with correspondents.
11:00 – 11:45
Panel: Navigating the defence landscape – misinformation, geopolitics & the modern world. Understanding the communications challenges posed by misinformation and evolving geopolitical tensions.
11:45 – 12:00
Networking break (tea & coffee).
12:00 – 12:45
Panel: Reputation under the microscope – ethics, social value & community in defence. Examining the complex interplay of social responsibility, community relations, and ESG funding in the defence industry.
12:45 – 13:15
Keynote: Public affairs in a shifting political landscape. Insights into the evolving role of public affairs and lobbying in defence and security.
13:15 – 14:00
Lunch break.
14:00 – 14:30
Lightning talks:
- Quick, impactful talks on the latest in defence marketing and digital innovation, covering digital security, rebranding, and managing mergers and acquisitions.
- Digital security and aesthetics: Building beautiful and secure platforms
- Rebranding for the Future: Concurrent’s transformation after 30 years
- Navigating mergers and acquisitions
14:30 – 15:15
Panel: Building high-performance teams and promoting mental fitness. A discussion on creating resilient, high-performing teams and mental wellness in the industry.
15:15 – 15:45
Keynote: Embracing tech and AI in defence marketing. Exploring AR, VR, 3D animation, and AI applications in marketing, with insights into security risks and the future of digital engagement.
15:45 – 16:00
Afternoon break (tea & coffee).
16:00 – 16:30
Panel: Maximising impact at DSEI – lessons from industry leaders. Strategic insights on making the most of large-scale defence exhibitions like DSEI.
16:30 – 17:00
Keynote panel: Collaborating with government communications teams. Guidance on working effectively with MOD communications teams.
17:00
Closing remarks and networking.