Rhiannon Hopper
Rhiannon Hopper is an Account Manager at Nielsen McAllister, a B2B PR and Communications agency based in the East Midlands.
Whether it’s writing press releases, managing digital campaigns or supporting clients during industry events, Rhiannon and the NM team help businesses enhance their brand awareness and achieve their marketing goals.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
With over three decades of experience under our belt, Nielsen McAllister is a B2B PR agency delivering award-winning communication programmes. Our experience spans various industries, including packaging, print, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and professional services – catering to clients’ PR needs at local, national, and international levels.
And whilst our origins lie in PR, we’ve adapted to the evolving landscape of communications to offer a wide range of B2B marketing services. From copywriting whitepapers and award entries, to managing paid and organic social media campaigns, conducting SEO audits and handling crisis communications, at NM, helping clients get noticed for all the right reasons is at the core of what we do.
- How did you get into the industry?
Simple answer: people and words!
Building relationships is key, and I love connecting with various businesses and the individuals driving them. And words are at the heart of PR. Each day, clients share their latest projects and innovations with us, and it’s our job to craft compelling stories from them.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
There’s no denying that PR is highly competitive, presenting both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the vast array of today’s platforms and channels provides ample opportunities to reach diverse audiences. However, this competitiveness also means that standing out amidst the noise requires a lot of work and creativity. One of the significant challenges we face is the evolving nature of the journalism and news industry. With limited resources and shrinking newsrooms, securing media coverage, and maintaining relationships with journalists have become increasingly challenging.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
As a newbie in the realm of account management, I’m still learning the ropes! I’m all about being open, honest, and ready to roll up my sleeves alongside the team. Plus, I really am learning from the best with NM’s senior leadership team. As seasoned pro’s, I feel very fortunate to have started my career under their expertise and guidance.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
Encourage, drive, appreciate!
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
With 30+ accounts within the Nielsen McAllister portfolio, for our business to run smoothly, it boils down to good communication, solid teamwork, and organisation.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
The past 12 months have been exciting for Nielsen McAllister! We’ve brought several new clients on board, revamped our offices with some new decor, and welcomed a new apprentice while celebrating internal promotions. We’ve also enjoyed the spotlight at various award shows and connected with many new and longstanding contacts at networking events and exhibitions – all whilst keeping the energy high with our ‘NM Songs of the Week’ playlist on Spotify.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
In the coming year, we’re looking forward to further growth. Our focus will be on strengthening relationships with our current clients and connecting with new ones through creating quality content that can be used across various communications channels.
We’re also committed to investing in our team, nurturing talent and providing opportunities for professional development. Right now, I’m working on completing my CIPR Professional Certificate, a good example of NM’s commitment to employee training.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
Having graduated from university in 2021, I’m relatively new to the corporate world, but I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far—particularly landing my role as Account Manager. From assisting clients with events and exhibitions to confidently meeting with CEOs and directors, I’ve learnt a lot in three years. Winning new business has been fulfilling, and networking events have expanded my connections. But the real highlight? Regularly securing PR coverage for my clients and building strong media relations – I think I’m in the right job!
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
It’s ok to say no! When starting a new career or taking on a new challenge, it’s tempting to accept extra work to impress higher powers. But it’s important to prioritise tasks you can handle well and complete on time. Overloading yourself only leads to stress and a drop in accuracy.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
‘Embrace the Uncomfortable’ – Taking on challenges outside your comfort zone is key to career growth. It’s where you learn, expand your network, and pave the way for long-term success.
