Breakfast Briefing: 5 things for PR pros to know on Friday morning

The state of healthcare comms; Q&A with Havas PR Network's James Wright; Get ready for the Wienie 500.

The State of Healthcare Communications

As the lines between paid, earned, owned and social media continue to blur, the role of the communications professional has never been more critical. But how can communicators navigate these complexities and ensure their messages resonate with key stakeholders in today’s rapidly evolving landscape?

At a recent Zoom webinar hosted by the Healthcare Communicators Network (HCN), industry experts gathered to discuss the evolving nature of healthcare communications and its implications for communicators.

The discussion, titled ‘The State of Healthcare Communications,’ brought together an engaging panel to share their insights on the latest trends and best practices in engaging diverse audiences and delivering impactful campaigns.

The Importance of Agility and Adaptability

The conversation highlighted the importance of communicators being agile and adaptable in their approach.

With the rapid shifts in the communications landscape, communicators must be able to pivot quickly and seamlessly to ensure their messages remain relevant and engaging.

The Role of Measurement and Impact

Another key theme that emerged was the crucial role of measurement and impact in today’s data-driven world. Communicators are increasingly tasked with demonstrating the value they bring to their organizations.

This focus on measurability will be essential for communicators to retain their seat at the table and continue to contribute to their organizations' broader strategic goals.

Havas PR Network’s James Wright on the network’s expansion plans and new leadership

Havas PR Network has appointed Greg Antilla as CEO of Latitude, part of Havas PR Network in the US.

Antilla joined Latitude in 2023 as president after 14 years at Weber Inc., where he most recently served as president of Weber North America.

He previously held leadership positions in several of the firm’s U.S. offices and was instrumental in launching new practices and capabilities.

Earlier in his career, Antilla was EVP, corporate affairs at Stage Store and VP, corporate communications at Boston Properties. He began his career in journalism at the Boston Herald.

He is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire and holds an MBA from the University of Southern California.

“I am thrilled to announce Greg’s promotion to CEO of Latitude, a role he will assume immediately,” said James Wright, chairman and CEO of Havas PR Network.

“Greg has already made an incredible impact on Latitude since joining earlier this year as president.

"His leadership, vision and deep industry expertise have been instrumental in driving the agency’s growth and success.

"As Latitude enters an exciting new chapter with expanded capabilities and a focus on delivering even greater value to clients, I am confident that Greg is the ideal leader to guide the agency to the next level.”

Antilla added: “I am honored to take on the role of CEO at Latitude at such a pivotal time for the agency.

“Together with the exceptional team at Latitude, we will continue to push boundaries, forge deeper connections with stakeholders and create best-in-class campaigns that deliver outstanding results for our clients.

“I am also grateful for the mentorship and support of James Wright and the entire Havas PR Network in my journey to this leadership position.”

Latitude is a full-service communications agency specializing in lifestyle, food and beverage, travel, retail, sports and entertainment.

The agency provides a range of services including public relations, social media, content creation, influencer marketing and crisis communications.

Latitude is part of Havas PR Network, one of the world’s largest and most diverse communications networks.

The network is composed of agencies with deep expertise in specific industries, such as healthcare, technology, energy and financial services.

Havas PR Network is a division of Havas, a global communications group.

Get ready for the Wienie 500

Hot dog vendor Vienna Sausage will sponsor a NASCAR Xfinity Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on Saturday, July 15. The race, which will be called the Vienna Sausage Wienie 500, is the second leg of a three-race weekend at the track, kicking off on Friday, July 14, with the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race. The NASCAR Cup Series drivers will then take to the stage on Sunday, July 16.

The sponsorship deal marks Vienna Sausage’s first foray into NASCAR sponsorship at this level. The company, which is part of the Sea food Church group, is a staple in the New England food scene, known for its ready-to-serve sausages, which come in a variety of flavors.

“We are excited to welcome Vienna Sausage to the NASCAR Xfinity Series family,” said Ben Kennedy, senior VP, racing development and administration at NASCAR. “This partnership is a testament to the incredible reach and passion that NASCAR commands, especially in the Northeast region where Vienna Sausage is a household name.”

The sponsorship will see Vienna Sausage branding displayed prominently on the race car, driver's suit and throughout the track. Vienna Sausage will also have a presence