The communications and public relations landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by the adoption of AI, media fragmentation, the spread of misinformation and declining audience attention spans. This requires leaders to contribute more than their communications expertise.

Business/financial management was the second highest skills gap identified in the PRII Census 2025 (AI being the top skills gap). The most effective leaders have a deep understanding of their organisation, commercial realities and wider environment, enabling them to become trusted advisers to CEOs, managing directors, boards, ministers and clients.

Following consultation with industry, this practical training is designed specifically for communications leaders looking to improve their strategic impact and/or those preparing for their move to the C‑suite level. The modern world characterised by evolving complexity, this training enables communications leaders to hone their individual leadership style, build influence, remain agile and deliver strategic impact.

Who is this course for?

  • Head/Director of Communications, Chief Communications Officer (CCO) and other leaders looking to improve their strategic and commercial impact.
  • Senior consultants or agency leaders who advise CEOs, boards and clients on strategic communications.
  • Public sector Assistant Principal (AP) and above with responsibility for strategic communications.
  • Senior communications and PR managers preparing for their move to the C‑suite level.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Develop leadership skills to contribute strategically to the wider organisational landscape.
  2. Strengthen your ability to influence and position yourself as a trusted adviser.
  3. Understand strategic management concepts that support the long term growth of organisations.
  4. Interpret commercial considerations to inform strategic decisions.
  5. Apply strategic communications and management principles to align communications and PR objectives with organisational goals.

Format & Delivery

  • This highly practical leadership programme is delivered online with one in-person session.
  • Combines academic foundations with real-world application.
  • Participants complete a DISC assessment and receive a comprehensive personalised report, enabling reflection on your own leadership style.
  • The programme creates space for open discussion, peer learning and sharing perspectives and experiences.
  • Afterwards, participants will have access to a dedicated workshop resource webpage including the workshop video recording, notes and relevant materials.

Course Schedule

  • Class 1: Wednesday, 14 October – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm
  • Class 2: Wednesday, 21 October – In-person, 10am - 12:30pm (Mespil Hotel, 50-60 Mespil Road, Dublin 4, D04 E7N2)
  • Class 3: Wednesday, 04 November – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm
  • Class 4: Wednesday, 11 November – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm
  • Class 5: Wednesday, 18 November – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm
  • Class 6: Wednesday, 25 November – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm
  • Class 7: Wednesday, 02 December – Live online, 10am - 12:30pm

Assessment & Certification

An individual reflective assignment drawing on learning across the programme, culminating in a practical 90-day leadership development plan focused on applying key insights within the participant’s organisational context.

This course is accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Ireland - the professional body for communications and PR in Ireland.

The PRII Certificate in Communications Leadership will be awarded on successful completion of the course assessment.

 

Course Director

Evie Larkin

Evie Larkin

Director, Empowering Potential

Find out more

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