Strategy, Story & Stakeholders

Comms Search & Selection
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From the team at Comms Search & Selection, welcome to Strategy, Story & Stakeholders. It's the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. We're exploring how best to support CEOs and boards to build credibility and how to engage with stakeholders. So that's everyone, from employees and customers to investors and governments. At a time when trust in leaders is low, the power of clear storytelling has never been more important. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he will interview a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Please take a moment to rate, review and subscribe to Strategy, Story and Stakeholders on Apple, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps others discover the show. About Comms Search & Selection: We are a specialist executive search and recruitment partner for Communications and Investor Relations teams. We build high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hire Talent and Leaders: commssearch.com/hire-talent-and-leaders Max Forsyth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-forsyth-comms-ir-exec-talent-search-recruitment-uk-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 1D AGO

    High Performance, High Impact: Craig Spence on Strategic Comms & the Paralympic Movement

    In this episode of Strategy, Story & Stakeholders, host Max Forsyth sits down with Craig Spence, the Chief Brand and Communications Officer for the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). With over 15 years at the helm of the IPC’s narrative, Craig shares how the Paralympic Games serve as a monumental catalyst for global social change. This isn't just about sport; it’s about a movement that improves the lives of the world’s 1.3 billion people with disabilities. From changing Japanese legislation to making the Paris Metro more accessible, Craig discusses the tangible legacy left behind long after the closing ceremonies. Looking ahead to the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milano Cortina, Craig highlights the strategic priorities for ensuring the games deliver both world-class sport and a lasting societal impact. Strategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min

  2. JAN 28

    Transforming Corporate Affairs at Royal Mail with Jenny Hall

    In this conversation, Jenny Hall, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Royal Mail, discusses her role in leading corporate affairs and ESG initiatives within one of the UK's most scrutinised organisations. She shares insights on the importance of communications strategy, stakeholder engagement, and the challenges of managing a large workforce while navigating public scrutiny. Jenny emphasises the need for a clear strategy in prioritising communications efforts, the integration of internal and external communications, and the significance of sustainability initiatives in shaping the future of Royal Mail. Strategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min

  3. JAN 14

    Ipsos Reputation Council Report: The Eye of the Storm

    Ed Whitehead, Advisory Director - Corporate Reputation at Ipsos, joins Strategy, Story & Stakeholders to take us through the Ipsos Reputation Council 2025 Report: The Eye of the Storm. We examine the changing nature of crisis communication, arguing that organisations must stop treating crises as one-off incidents and instead recognise them as a permanent fixture of modern business.  We explore how geopolitical instability and a widespread loss of faith in institutions are forcing communicators to rethink their approach. And our discussion also touches on the value of strategic silence, the complexities of ESG, and how AI is likely to reshape the industry.  Above all, we maintain that integrity and trust remain the only reliable anchors in such an unpredictable climate. Strategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min

  4. 11/27/2025

    The Modern CCO: Business Acumen, Strategy & Influence with Tabita Andersson

    What separates a "good" communications director from a true strategic business partner in the C-suite? According to Tabita Andersson, author of Chief Communications Officers at Work, the answer isn't creative flair or perfect copywriting—it's deep business acumen. In this episode of Strategy, Story & Stakeholders, Max Forsyth sits down with Tabita to explore the evolution of the CCO role. Drawing on interviews with communications leaders from global giants like GE and A.P. Moller - Maersk, Tabita shares why the modern CCO must move beyond "polishing the message" to become the organization's strategic radar. We discuss: From Output to Outcome: Why CCOs must stop measuring success by press clippings and start measuring by strategic impact.The Language of the Boardroom: Why understanding the P&L, balance sheet, and business model is the only way to gain influence with the CEO and CFO.Stakeholder Mapping: Moving from "broadcasting to the public" to surgical engagement with investors, regulators, and employees.AI in Communications: Why Artificial Intelligence won't replace the CCO—but will force them to double down on judgment, empathy, and strategy.Career Advice: Practical steps for aspiring leaders to build their internal network and strategic capability. Guest: Tabita Andersson, Communications Leader & Author of Chief Communications Officers at Work. Host: Max Forsyth, Founder & Managing Director, Comms Search & Selection. Resources: Get the Book: Chief Communications Officers at Work is available on Amazon now.Visit our Website: commssearch.comConnect with Max: LinkedIn ProfileStrategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min

  5. 10/14/2025

    Aligning Corporate Strategy with Stakeholder Engagement with Rebecca Matts

    In the second episode of Strategy, Story & Stakeholders, we sit down with Rebecca Matts to explore the nuances of corporate affairs. Rebecca shares her path from starting as a junior marketing executive at Clifford Chance to becoming a trusted communications and corporate affairs advisor at firms including HSBC, UBS, BlackRock. Nomura, SThree and Hines, revealing how she aligns communications strategies with business strategy. We discuss the role of authenticity and clarity in storytelling and offer practical insights for senior executive, Board or businesses looking to build trust and influence. Whether you're new to the field, an experienced professional or in the C-Suite, Rebecca's perspective provides valuable takeaways for navigating the corporate landscape. Strategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min

  6. 09/25/2025

    The Art of Executive Communications with Charlotte Otter

    Summary In this episode of Strategy, Story and Stakeholders, host Max Forsyth speaks with Charlotte Otter, an expert in executive communications who previously led executive communications and internal communications for SAP, the global tech giant with 130,000 employees, and now author of 'We Need New Leaders.' They discuss the evolving dynamics of leadership communication, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of storytelling in engaging stakeholders. Charlotte emphasises the need for leaders and CEOs to be authentic and courageous in their communication, especially in a time when trust is paramount. The conversation also touches on the challenges of engaging hard-to-reach audiences and the necessity of integrating inclusivity into corporate culture. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Executive Communications 06:15 The Need for New Leadership 09:49 Self-Awareness in Leadership 11:37 The Power of Storytelling 14:21 Engaging Hard-to-Reach Stakeholders 16:23 Internal vs External Communication 20:10 Advice for New CEOs Strategy, Story & Stakeholders is the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he interviews a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Comms Search & Selection builds high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    27 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

From the team at Comms Search & Selection, welcome to Strategy, Story & Stakeholders. It's the podcast for senior leaders in comms, corporate affairs and also investor relations. We're exploring how best to support CEOs and boards to build credibility and how to engage with stakeholders. So that's everyone, from employees and customers to investors and governments. At a time when trust in leaders is low, the power of clear storytelling has never been more important. Hosted by Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder of Comms Search and Selection. Max has a decade of experience recruiting comms and IR leaders, and in each episode, he will interview a leading figure from the communications and investor relations industry on how they have successfully communicated strategy, told stories and engaged stakeholders. Please take a moment to rate, review and subscribe to Strategy, Story and Stakeholders on Apple, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. It really helps others discover the show. About Comms Search & Selection: We are a specialist executive search and recruitment partner for Communications and Investor Relations teams. We build high-performing teams through Retained Executive Search, Exclusive Permanent Placements, and Contract & Interim solutions for industry leading companies across the UK, USA and worldwide. Website: commssearch.com Hire Talent and Leaders: commssearch.com/hire-talent-and-leaders Max Forsyth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-forsyth-comms-ir-exec-talent-search-recruitment-uk-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Comms Search & Selection
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Comms Search & Selection
  • Show Website
    Strategy, Story & Stakeholders