Hello Kayleigh, let’s kick off with how you got into PR…
My route into PR was quite straightforward. I was studying multi-media at college and one of the modules was Public Relations, which opened my eyes up to a whole new industry I didn’t even know existed. From there I started applying for work experience opportunities and spent my time outside of college at small agencies around the Bristol and Bath areas – I fell in love with the creativity and pace straight away.
After college I moved to London to study Public Relations at the London College of Fashion. I massively envied all of my friends who were having the “real uni experience” at campuses outside of the capital… mainly for the cheap-as-chips accommodation and mad student nights out. Still, I’d chosen to study in London so I could fill every second between term-time interning at magazines, agencies and head offices of the brands I loved, while also working part-time in a shop.
For me, interning at every opportunity really was the way in and a route I’d recommend to anyone who can do it, because the people you’re surrounded by will teach you everything and more.
What excites you most about your job?
Getting to work on campaigns for clients and brands I admire. I love the process of seeing a project I believe in blossom from beginning to end, all the way from brief to evaluation. I’m the ‘Executive’ personality type, so I love creating order, but also being creative and nothing ticks those boxes quite like a good PR campaign.
Relive your most memorable career moment?
Undoubtedly launching the Team GB adidas x Stella McCartney kit for the Rio Olympics. The day began at 7am running between green rooms backstage in a London venue and prepping for interviews with major broadcasters like ITV, Sky and the BBC, before our Olympian and Paralympians took to the stage to unveil their outfits to the world.
I actually had to jump on a train half way across the country after the event to attend a cinema opening for another client (Stella to Swindon: the glamour), so the day was jam-packed and very long. It was worth every second though to wake up the following morning and see Tom Daley in his skimpy trunks splashed across every national newspaper front page and know I’d had a part to play in it.
Describe your happy place?
A long walk (ideally Richmond to Hampton Court Palace), a good podcast (like The Adam Buxton Podcast) and a pair of headphones (always my Beoplay H9s) with my dog, Lillian McKeith, in tow.
Describe your work wardrobe?
I really wish I had something chicer to say here, however it’s usually a pair of jeans with Stan Smith sneakers or my trusty Whistles boots and then either a cosy jumper or nice shirt.
What makes Little Red Rooster different from other PR agencies?
It’s unlike anywhere I’ve ever worked before, but the biggest difference is the team. We’re 20-people strong, so we know each other well and draw on each other’s individual strengths, pulling in favours and asking for advice. I noticed from day one everyone is very clearly working to the same goal and they’re more than happy to drop whatever they are doing to help a teammate in need.
Oh, and Henry lets me bring Lil the dog into the office.
Do you have any advice for someone wanting to work in PR?
Have a point of view on the world. Anyone can study and gain work experience in any industry, but it’s how you see and interpret the world that will set you apart from everyone else.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The above!
Who or what inspires you most?
People who aren’t afraid to stand for change and break through barriers to make their mark on the world. I’m fascinated and love to read books by people, particularly young women, who believe in themselves even if they have a million obstacles to overcome, and still go on to do incredible, life-changing things.
That, and women who can apply liquid eyeliner on the Northern Line…
Choose your last meal and ultimate dinner party guests…
Oh, I think about this a lot so I’m glad you asked. For starters I’m going for Peruvian scallops that blew my mind at a restaurant in Amsterdam, followed by a buttermilk chicken burger but paired with KFC gravy… is that gross? For pudding I’d like my own home-baked flourless chocolate cake with some dessert wine please.
Guest-wise I’d reserve three spots for my family (soppy I know) and then Louis Theroux, Ricky Gervais and perhaps Thom Yorke to provide the soundtrack for the evening – I’m basically going to make him sing for his supper.
