I am John Watson, a PR consultant and company director based in New Zealand with over 15 years of experience in media, communications, and crisis management. I specialize in leading political and corporate communications, stakeholder engagement, and integrated PR campaigns across multiple countries, helping brands maintain clarity, credibility, and strong reputations. I have held senior roles in Parliament's media and communications teams, led major campaigns for clients, and delivered award-winning journalism and crisis responses. I thrive on turning strategy into compelling narratives and measurable outcomes, while mentoring teams and building lasting relationships with stakeholders. My approach blends strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, focusing on clear storytelling, stakeholder trust, and adaptable campaigns that respond to fast-moving news cycles and public policy shifts.

I am John Watson, a PR consultant and company director based in New Zealand with over 15 years of experience in media, communications, and crisis management. I specialize in leading political and corporate communications, stakeholder engagement, and integrated PR campaigns across multiple countries, helping brands maintain clarity, credibility, and strong reputations. I have held senior roles in Parliament's media and communications teams, led major campaigns for clients, and delivered award-winning journalism and crisis responses. I thrive on turning strategy into compelling narratives and measurable outcomes, while mentoring teams and building lasting relationships with stakeholders. My approach blends strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, focusing on clear storytelling, stakeholder trust, and adaptable campaigns that respond to fast-moving news cycles and public policy shifts.

Available to hire

I am John Watson, a PR consultant and company director based in New Zealand with over 15 years of experience in media, communications, and crisis management. I specialize in leading political and corporate communications, stakeholder engagement, and integrated PR campaigns across multiple countries, helping brands maintain clarity, credibility, and strong reputations. I have held senior roles in Parliament’s media and communications teams, led major campaigns for clients, and delivered award-winning journalism and crisis responses. I thrive on turning strategy into compelling narratives and measurable outcomes, while mentoring teams and building lasting relationships with stakeholders.

My approach blends strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, focusing on clear storytelling, stakeholder trust, and adaptable campaigns that respond to fast-moving news cycles and public policy shifts.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

PR Consultant & Company Director at Good Mahi
January 1, 2019 - Present
Leading, planning, and strategizing PR and communications for clients; marketing and sales oversight; client relationships and account management; brand alignment and communications strategy.
Senior Communications Specialist at Parliamentary Service
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2020
Provided specialist advice on communications strategy and implementation; crisis communications; media relations and stakeholder engagement; led international assignments and integrated PR campaigns across multiple countries.
Media & Communications Manager at Te Arfund NZ
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2019
Led media relations, communications strategy, and stakeholder engagement; managed integrated PR campaigns; directed international assignments and humanitarian communications.
Public Relations Advisor to Simon O'Connor MP at Office of Simon O'Connor MP
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2020
Provided specialist advice on communications strategy and implementation; liaised with stakeholders and managed parliamentary communications.
Chief of Staff at 3 News
January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009
Newsroom administration; conducting interviews; coordinating weekly press conferences and parliamentary coverage.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications at University of Auckland
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2010
Fellowship at Fellowship Foundation
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2015

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Government, Non-Profit Organization