A career in Communications offers professionals a myriad of experiences and opportunities. Our Comms Spotlight for this week highlights some of the unique experiences she’s had on her career journey. Emma Wenani is the Chief Director at Global Media Alliance, a Communications agency in Ghana. Emma’s career began in Marketing before she eventually found herself in Communications. In her interview with us, Emma shares some amazing highlights from her career.
As the Chief Director at Global Media Alliance, what is a typical work day like for you?
My role as a Chief Director at Global Media Alliance consists of overseeing and providing strategic leadership of the consultancy side of the business of the Group i.e. Public Relations, Digital Marketing and Innovations, Events Management and Business Development departments.
Apart from management of the teams I oversee, the role entails Client Relations with existing and potential clients, business development – Strategic Planning, Pitch Development, Financial Management and Quality Assurance.
There’s no typical day in the life of working in an agency (laughs) however a good day will begin with catching up on emails. Depending on tasks at hand, I may attend some client meetings/calls, be involved in an internal brainstorming meeting, attend departmental of project meetings or be part of a pitch presentation. Before a day ends, I often try as much as possible to plan the next day’s activities.
Why did you choose a career in communications and how have you grown professionally over the years?
I chose a career in communication because I have always been intrigued by the power of words and their ability to shape perceptions, influence decisions, and foster connections. I believe that communication is at the core of every interaction, and effective communication is not just about conveying information but creating meaningful understanding of the messages and building relationships.
I started off my career in Marketing before I moved to Ghana and then transitioned to PR with the Stock Exchange in Nairobi. When I moved to Ghana 13 years ago, it was to work in HR with Global Media Alliance which I did for 6 years. However over the years, with new opportunities within the organisation, I found myself back in Communication.
I have grown especially when it comes to handling communication facets across different industries. The beauty of working in an agency setting means one is always working across different sectors and I have been privileged to work with clients in Financial and Banking, Telecommunication, Technology, Health just to mention a few.
As I progressed in my career, I found myself in leadership roles where strategic thinking and decision-making became key. Communication is not only about crafting messages but also about aligning them with broader organisational goals. Leading teams and projects have provided me with valuable insights into the strategic role that Communication plays in achieving business objectives.
What are the qualities that stand you out as a professional?
In no particular order I would say active listening, creativity, teamwork, emotional intelligence, adaptability, the willingness to learn, professionalism, strategic thinking, ability to take initiative and proactivity, attention to detail and efficiency as well effectiveness in delivering tasks would be stand out qualities for any professional.
Tell us about a campaign or a project you executed that stands out to you?
I have led a wide range of projects and campaigns since I began my career in communications. However one that may have particularly stood out for me was the Kusi Ideas Festival. It was nostalgic for me because the company that leads Kusi Ideas Festival, Nation Media Group, was the company I started my career working for so it was really great that years after moving across the continent, I got to be the Project Lead on implanting it in Ghana.
The Kusi Ideas Festival which was held in 2021 under the theme “How Africa Transforms After The Virus” looked at what measures were going to be put in place to boost the economy after the recession caused by the Covid 19 pandemic.
The 2 day conference which received global attention and was a part of the global conversation was co-hosted by H.E. Nana Akufo Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana and attracted participation from many dignitaries including H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda and H.E. Yoweri Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, both of whom gave virtual addresses.
What is your favourite thing about working in communications?
I love when things fall into place and a campaign comes to life. I find immense satisfaction in the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of communications. The ability to craft compelling messages and narratives that resonate with diverse audiences is incredibly fulfilling. I enjoy the aspect of developing strategies to effectively convey information, whether it’s through writing, proposal development, or engaging with various communication channels.
Ultimately, the blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact is what makes working in communications enjoyable.
What advice will you give your younger professional self?
If I had to offer my younger self some advice, here are a few things I would say to her:
- Embrace Continuous Learning- Always be curious and open to learning. The professional landscape is dynamic, and staying informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and new methodologies will keep you relevant and adaptable.
- Build a Strong Network- Cultivate relationships with colleagues, mentors, and professionals in your industry. Networking can open up opportunities and provide guidance that contribute to personal and professional growth.
- Develop a Personal Brand- Clearly define your skills, strengths, and unique qualities. Building a personal brand can help you stand out in your field and communicate your value to others.
- Balance Confidence with Humility- Believe in your abilities, but also recognize that there is always more to learn.
- PrioritiSe Work-Life Balance- It’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Understand your limits, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout.
- Take Risks- Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Taking calculated risks can lead to new opportunities and personal growth. Evaluate risks, make informed decisions, and be prepared to learn from the outcomes.
