Networks

Ann has over 30 years’ experience in employee communications and PR. She has extensive experience of working with leadership teams during times of major organisational change, restructuring and crisis. Advising and delivering external and employee communications that clearly shares the business strategy and vision. Coached top teams and key leaders within the businesses in how best to deliver understandable and engaging communications both internally and externally.

Ann has worked with and lead both international and national based internal communication teams to deliver engaging employee communications as well as measuring employee's opinions, attitudes and understanding of the business goals, globally and locally.

She has been a member of the IoIC Scotland committee for over 18 years and has presented at and hosted a variety of communication conferences throughout her career.

Hi! I’m Luke, an internal communications and employee experience specialist with over a decade of experience working with a range of organisations to deliver engaging internal communications activity, often to disconnected and disengaged audiences. Throughout my career I’ve built up extensive experience, from working with senior leaders during times of organisational change and crisis, to devising and delivering employee robust IC strategies aligned to business goals, nationally and locally.

I started my journey in the energy industry many moons ago, holding positions in Leeds and then London where I found my way into the railway family with Southeastern. Having relocated back to Leeds in 2020, I’m currently working as the Employee Experience Manager for Northern Trains, responsible for maximising effective communication and engagement at each stage of the employee lifecycle, and ensuring people and communications processes are fit for the future.

I’ve been a member of the IoIC for over seven years, and I’m passionate about helping comms professionals showcase the amazing work that happens each and every day. Outside of work, you’ll probably find me exploring the great Yorkshire Dales.

Melanie is the Global Head of Internal Communications and Employee Engagement at Amnesty International, having held previous roles in other third sector organisations and large corporate companies. Melanie has around 24 years’ experience of professional communications management and leadership, having started her career in public relations before moving into internal communications around 13 years ago.

I am a highly experienced leader in developing and executing comprehensive strategies that enhance brand reputation, strengthen relationships, and drive business objectives.

Throughout my career I have established exceptional communication skills, a deep understanding of the finance industry, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. I report directly into the c-suite, coaching and guiding seniors leaders on best practice corporate communications.

I believe it's my data and analytical approach to how I communicate that has driven my career over the past decade.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dysonnicki/

Helen is an internal communication consultant with 16 years of experience working across different industries to provide strategic support to internal comms teams. Helen has volunteered for the IoIC for most of her career, most recently as a board director. She’s passionate about the profession and is excited to be leading the East Anglia region network.  

Johanna Soyars is the Director of Internal Communications at Cambridge University Press & Assessment. After starting her career in marketing and public relations, she moved into internal communications and has worked in complex commercial and nonprofit organisations in both the USA and the UK. Over the past 15 years, Johanna has led global internal communications teams and advised senior executives in a variety of industries, focusing on employee engagement, strategy, and change management. Her experience confirms the power of good stories to create connection and meaning for people at work, and she enjoys that her job helps to foster these relationships, which she finds very rewarding. 

Julie’s an established all-round comms pro that’s worked across a number of sectors including finance, charity, construction, manufacturing and engineering. 

On becoming our Network Lead for the South, Julie said, “I’m passionate about our profession and the great work of the IoIC. In my career I’ve learnt so much from the IoIC and continue to do so. The regional groups are a great way for internal comms folk to connect and learn from each other.”

Julie’s previously been a speaker at an IoIC sector conference, showcasing an employee recognition initiative that increased belonging. As well has having CIIC status, Julie’s also a Chartered Marketer with the CIM, from her background in marketing, branding and product management. 

Dan is a Communication Consultant with All Things IC, providing consultancy, training, mentoring and coaching for internal communicators and organisations across the globe.

Since starting his communication career in 2014, Dan has specialised in internal communication, working in various sectors including aviation, defence, charity and manufacturing, all of which have seen him support colleagues working remotely.

His dedication to internal communication extends beyond the workplace. He’s been an active member of national and international committees, including two years as Chair of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) sub-group Inside in 2021-22. He currently volunteers for the Royal Air Force Air Cadets as their Internal Communication Lead and runs The Internal Communicators' Community, an online community group for IC professionals.

Dan is an advocate of continuing professional development (CPD). Awarded Chartered PR Practitioner status in 2020 and Fellow of the CIPR in 2022, he is also a Certified Member of the Institute of Internal Communication (IoIC). In 2022, he qualified as an ILM Level 7 Executive Coach and Mentor and became an EMCC Accredited Coach / Mentor at the Practitioner level with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council.

Our newest Network Lead, here is what Dan has to say about the SW network:

"The South West region is known for its picturesque towns and villages, beautiful coastlines and key cities but it's also home to a growing community of internal communicators. Whether you're in Exeter, Plymouth or Bristol, in the countryside or on the coast, my aim for the network is to bring IoIC members together, providing opportunities to share ideas, career advice and learnings with colleagues from different sectors.

Having helped develop communities and networks, I aim to create opportunities throughout the year, both in-person and remotely. So whether your seeking advice on a project or exploring new career opportunities, you’ll have a network of communicators to help. Working with industry partners and other networks throughout the region, I hope to help celebrate our profession."

A certified member of the Institute of Internal Communications (IoIC) for many years, May Flanagan has over twelve years of global marketing and communications experience. Based in Carrick-on-Shannon in the Republic of Ireland, she specialises in internal change communication and helps global firms navigate and communicate change effectively. 

Jessica Roberts is an independent IC consultant specialising in enhancing business culture through innovative internal communication strategies. Jess works with global businesses to help them communicate better on the ‘inside’. With nearly 20 years of experience in communications, she has led in-house teams, consultancy teams in global agencies, and founded an independent consultancy business. Her clients have included HM Treasury, Scottish Water, Fuller's, Zalando, Manchester City FC, NHS and others.