From 2002 till the end of 2004, Convergence undertook almost all the communications activities for LPC that would normally be delivered by an in-house Communications Manager. This project proved to be an excellent example of how an external consultancy can provide highly effective service for a large corporate.
The solution:
Convergence principal Erin Jamieson had previously worked for the company so was well placed to conduct the work, assisted by business partner Leigh Harris, who also has strong corporate communications management experience.
As a publicly listed company, LPC required the full suite of communications services involving everything from writing media releases and sending them to the NZSE for prior approval, through to organising AGMs, preparing presentations and briefings, organising community meetings, handling all media enquiries, and writing and producing regular staff, community and customer newsletters.
LPC had previously found that occasional peaks in workflow meant it had to contract out larger communications activities – such as writing its Annual and Half Year Reports, and organising the Port’s annual open day attended by 7-8000 people. However, using an external consultancy ensured that all the company’s requirements were provided seamlessly and avoided any of the delays that a single in-house practitioner would sometimes experience due to simple workflow issues.
After three years, management changes saw LPC move back to employing an in-house Communications Manager but the company continues to contract Convergence to provide a range of services.
We have been working with Convergence for several years now and value their experience and expertise in communications. Convergence has been responsible for writing the copy for our newsletters and reports, and organising some of our events. LPC appreciate Convergence's attention to detail and professional prompt response, we have had great support and very helpful advice throughout our dealings with them.
– Sarah Aldworth, Communications Manager, Lyttelton Port of Christchurch