Jacobs – Strategic Communication Manager Contract
“I came on board to provide Jacobs communications support and advice during initial period of their acquisition of Aker Solutions in Australia – we thought maybe for six months. Three years later…!”
– Jacqui Rudd
Client
Jacobs Engineering Group
Jacobs is one of the world’s largest and most diverse providers of technical, professional and construction services with 250 offices in 30 countries.
In late 2011, Jacobs acquired the engineering division of Aker Solutions in Australia and Asia as part of its global expansion strategy.
About the project
With the business transition from Aker Solutions (Norwegian company) to Jacobs (US company) there was a significant requirement for communications support in the Australian business in re-branding, marketing communications and of course employee communication. Jacobs was an unknown entity in Australia with clients and employees.
Solution
Jacqui joined the Jacobs team on contract as their Australian Communications Manager 3 days before the acquisition announcement. As part of her role, she worked with the CEO to hone the company’s key messages, communication approach and follow up for Australian employees and the marketing team to implement the company re-brand and associated communication initiatives.
As Communications Manager, Jacqui worked as a member the Australian management team and the global corporate communications team with responsibilities for employee communication, marketing communication, advertising and media coordination.
She worked closely with the Australian CEO and management team to create communications strategies, plans and key messages for major corporate and employee initiatives and also during industry downturns resulting in significant employee redundancies.
The Australian Jacobs were always receptive and responsive to proposed communications initiative – especially the CEO, who recognised and valued strong and consistent two-way communication with his team.