Laura-Jayne R.

At Ivy PR, we don’t just market brands — we grow them in style. Through fearless creativity and the art of storytelling, we transform bold ideas into captivating campaigns which spark gold. We take brands from ordinary to iconic — because in our world, chaos is the beginning of something extraordinary.

Responsible for leading the planning and execution of high-impact, national marketing campaigns aimed at driving key metrics such as betting participation, viewership and attendance for UK horse racing. Spearheaded the development of innovative and creative strategies that emphasised the excitement, tradition and prestige of the sport, turning bold concepts into successful multi-channel campaigns across digital, broadcast and in-person platforms. Utilised data-driven insights to continuously optimise campaign performance and ensure measurable results. Delivered targeted messaging that engaged both new audiences and seasoned racegoers, while fostering strategic partnerships with sponsors and media outlets to amplify campaign reach and maximise effectiveness.

Delivered dynamic and engaging lectures on key subjects such as equine marketing, event management and entrepreneurship, ensuring students were well-prepared for careers in the equine business industry. Lead and designed the BA Equine Business Management degree, blending business acumen with industry-specific expertise to develop future leaders in the equine and business sector. Oversaw practical learning opportunities, including internships, field trips and industry partnerships, maintaining strong connections between academia and the equestrian world. Provided mentorship and guidance to students, supporting their academic growth and career development.

Led communications strategy for a high-profile, multi-stakeholder software organisation, managing a diverse portfolio of client accounts across the tech industry. Developed and executed innovative PR and product communication strategies, driving national and international product launch campaigns with measurable results. Conducted in-depth market and user research, leveraging data analytics to refine messaging and align communication strategies with evolving customer needs. Represented the organisation globally, presenting key insights, product updates and campaign outcomes to stakeholders, ensuring alignment with business goals and product roadmap progression.

Delivered lectures and seminars in sports and magazine journalism, with a focus on PR and marketing modules. Responsible for designing, preparing and developing teaching materials to ensure engaging and effective learning experiences. Assessed student coursework, providing detailed feedback to support academic growth. Additionally, offered pastoral and advisory support to students, guiding them through their educational journey and career development.

Contributed to national and regional publications including the Racing Post, Racing Post Weekender, Style Reins magazine, Cotswold Style magazine and The Standard newspaper. Created, sourced and wrote features and news articles, ensuring alignment with each publication's house style. Conducted thorough research on subjects and stories, delivering well-written, accurate content within tight deadlines. Regularly conducted interviews in person and over the phone, generated story ideas and sourced relevant images to accompany articles. Stayed up to date with industry trends and developments across various sectors to produce timely and relevant content.

Directed the development and execution of a comprehensive, data-driven marketing strategy that encompassed a new brand strategy, full website overhaul and a new optimised social media approach, designed to enhance engagement and drive growth. Managed a small but focused team, ensuring consistency in brand messaging across all platforms and content, while strategically managing advertising and PR placements to maximise impact and visibility. Worked closely with the Head of Admissions to align marketing and admissions efforts, effectively planning and executing key recruitment events, including Taster Days, personalised tours, Open Days and strategic admissions selection processes. Additionally, managed market research and budgets efficiently while leading innovative on-site marketing initiatives and videography, to elevate the school’s profile and foster community engagement.

Worked for clients in the luxury fashion, lifestyle, arts and social responsibility sectors. Wrote daily press releases, securing coverage in local and national publications. Collaborated with designers on client briefs to create adverts, promotional materials and websites, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines and client objectives. Supported the development and execution of marketing strategies that enhanced brand visibility and engagement across diverse channels.

Generated story ideas and followed leads from news agencies. Interviewed trainers, jockeys and owners, building a network of contacts and becoming a trusted source for commentary. Investigated stories via contacts, press releases and other media, reacting swiftly to breaking news. Collaborated with the news team and editors to produce concise, accurate copy in line with the newspaper’s house style, meeting strict daily deadlines. Wrote both short news 'fillers' and in-depth feature articles, while creating and uploading digital content. Utilised social media to break news and identify potential leads. Served as a live web reporter and sourced content for RPTV, the in-house television channel.

Completed a prestigious BJTC-accredited course that provided comprehensive training in multimedia journalism. Developed expertise in writing for newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, while honing broadcast reporting skills for television and radio. The course offered a well-rounded foundation in both traditional and digital media, preparing me for the dynamic demands of modern journalism across various formats.