Shaping the future: Highwire's mid-year update on AI, sustainability and cybersecurity
A word from our principal, Kathleen Gratehouse
As we approach the middle of 2024 (can you believe it?) the technology landscape continues its rapid evolution. Generative AI, sustainable tech and cybersecurity are top of mind, driving innovation and shaping industries. At Highwire, we're not just keeping pace; we're setting the bar higher.
With the launch of our new cybersecurity crisis communications service and our commitment to crafting strategies backed by data analytics and insights, we stand ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. Our commitment to supporting our clients remains steadfast and we look forward to helping our clients bring their innovation stories to life.
Best,
Kathleen
Insights & analytics: data-driven strategies
Margaret Cote has joined the Highwire team as our first Head of Insights and Analytics. She brings with her a wealth of expertise in data-driven decision-making and deep insights that will take our storytelling to new heights.?
With her leadership, we're combining our industry expertise with advanced analytics to drive even more impactful communications for our clients. As our principal Carol Carrubba said, “Data, analytics and strategic insight will be a ‘fundamental part’ of how Highwire does business,” and we can’t wait to see how Mags expands that part of our business. Learn more.
New service: cybersecurity crisis communications
When you’re in a crisis, you want to make sure your team is prepared. In light of the SEC’s recent disclosure rules, we’ve noted the importance of communications teams in preparing for managing cyber incidents. This month, we’ve taken it step further with the launch of our new cybersecurity crisis communications service offering. We know cybersecurity issues stand out for their frequency, rapid changes, complex compliance environment and potentially dire impact on the brand. With decades of experience in crisis management and a deep knowledge of cybersecurity, we're here to ensure your company is prepared and equipped to handle any cyber-related challenges. Learn more.
James Holland on AI in PR and communications
James Holland, our EVP of Digital and resident AI expert, leads Highwire's innovative strides into AI-driven PR and communications strategies. Recognized in PRWeek's Dashboard 25: AI Edition, James champions responsible AI implementation and emphasizes trust in technology.
James and his team recently published a case study, "Putting the value of AI content to the test," which discusses a real-world test of AI-created, human-edited content.
We sought to answer these questions:
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Industry recognition
PRWeek DEI Champion Award winner, Ayanna Anderson, MPS, MS
We are thrilled to celebrate Ayanna Anderson, Highwire's Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIBs), for her recognition as a PRWeek DEI Champion Award winner. Ayanna's leadership has profoundly impacted our workplace culture through initiatives like our employee?affinity groups and culturally inclusive recruitment strategies across all practice groups. She organizes impactful events like discussions and educational roundtables, fostering empathy among colleagues and integrating her DEI expertise into our client campaigns and community initiatives. As we move forward, we are proud to continue championing diversity, inclusion and belonging under Ayanna's guidance. Let's follow her lead and build an even more inclusive and equitable Highwire together. Read more.
PRovoke Media’s 2024 North America Digital Agency of the Year finalist
Highwire being recognized as a finalist for this award serves as an acknowledgement of our amazing digital team and their ongoing dedication to social, content and creative innovation. Read more.
PRovoke Media’s 2024 SABRE Awards - Medical Technology finalist
We've been shortlisted for this award for our campaign with Definitive Healthcare, “Beyond the Numbers – Benchmarking the Extent of the Healthcare Staffing Shortage and Showing a Path Forward.” We thank PRovoke for acknowledging our high impact work as an agency. Read more.
Proving the value of sustainability amid greenhushing and greenwashing
Almost two-thirds of consumers expect companies to prioritize sustainability, yet less than half believe that companies actually deliver on this promise. At Highwire, we recognize the critical importance of sustainability, and our recent LinkedIn Live Energy & Sustainability panel (now available on-demand) explored how organizations can bridge this trust gap. The panel featured senior communications leaders who shared insights on proving sustainability’s value in communications.
Moderator Ken Silverstein ’s recent Forbes article on the event highlights the complexity of corporate sustainability, noting that while some criticize companies for inadequate efforts, many strive genuinely to serve their communities and shareholders. Panelists Kurt Steinert of Hitachi Energy and Luis Davila of 施耐德电气 emphasized the importance of external accountability and clear communication while Paul Doherty from Pacific Gas and Electric Company shared the company’s ambitious renewable energy goals, demonstrating that while challenges remain, genuine corporate sustainability is gaining momentum and proving vital for long-term success.
How to make the biggest impact at industry events
In 2024, the resurgence of user conferences and trade shows presents a valuable opportunity for businesses to redefine their impact. Highwire offers strategic insights on leveraging major industry events like RSA Conference, KubeCon and AWS re:Invent to achieve business objectives and embracing new media formats like newsletters and podcasts to navigate the changing media landscape.
We have the expertise to help you strategically evaluate and prioritize your event engagements for maximum impact. From securing speaker slots to building effective marketing activations, we understand what it takes to stand out. Download our events checklist below.
Highwire gains two new independent board members
We are proud to announce that we have appointed Dave Samson and Adam Cossman to our board of directors, enhancing our agency's strategic focus on healthcare, digital, analytics and corporate communications. Dave Samson brings over 40 years of corporate communications experience, having worked with major brands like Chevron and Edelman. Adam Cossman, a veteran in marketing and communications services, specializes in healthcare and analytics strategy. We’re confident that their expertise will strengthen Highwire's capabilities in navigating complex communications landscapes, driving growth in key industry sectors and reaching our goals as an organization. Learn more.
Great update, Kathleen. I am honored to serve as a member of the Highwire board and to work alongside you and the Highwire leadership team. Here’s to what lies ahead for the balance of 2024!