05Human capital development
By the Numbers
23,769
96
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Around the Network
The Institute 101, 201, and 301
Every year, selected staff members from our various offices are invited to partake in peer-led, face-to-face workshops that are tailored to improve their business acumen, foster cross-office collaboration, and provide networking opportunities.
The Institute 101 is a three-day session for junior employees, taking place in Montreal during spring. Attendees dive into business management and fundamental communication skills, exploring key topics for public relations professionals—including client expectation management, project management, and business development.
The Institute 201 unfolds over two days at our Toronto office in the summer. This workshop is crafted to empower some of our more senior consultants to become trusted advisors, equipped with advanced capabilities to serve the evolving needs of both existing and potential clients.
In 2023, we also launched the third cohort of The Institute 301, a one-year program for our senior leaders. This journey aims to increase their awareness of the key components propelling the business forward at the network level.
Visionary Leadership Model
The Visionary Leadership Model (VLM) is a comprehensive framework that defines AVENIR GLOBAL’s approach to successful consultancy. In every office, designated VLM ambassadors conduct introductory sessions for newcomers and support staff in applying the model. A series of Firm-wide webinars, known as the “Leadership Panels,” delves into the VLM’s central themes. The 2023 lineup included a conversation on leadership skills with our brands’ HR leads; a panel on navigating relationships within our network; and another one with colleagues sharing their distinct perspectives and strategies on business development.
Destination Digital
The Destination Digital program is tailored to equip consultants at every level with up-to-date knowledge of digital trends, tools, and best practices. This educational offering includes “Digital Conversations,” a suite of webinars where digital experts from the AVENIR GLOBAL network share their expertise on a range of subjects, with occasional participation of external guest speakers. In 2023, the program hosted six webinars, each spotlighting a distinct area of digital communications, from artificial intelligence and data-driven strategies to influencer marketing, search engine optimization, and paid media.
Achievement Awards
Among 255 nominations submitted by colleagues, 96 laureates were selected this year for their accomplishments in seven categories. The awards were presented during local ceremonies at each of our offices.
In addition to the winners in local categories, AVENIR GLOBAL also presents two global recognition awards.
2023 AVENIR GLOBAL Way Award
Meaghan Beech (NATIONAL Toronto)
The 2023 recipient of the AVENIR GLOBAL Way Award is Meaghan Beech. Meaghan has been instrumental in leading NATIONAL Toronto through a year of positive change, especially since being promoted to chief of staff. She played an important role in helping two new managing partners—Brian Pearl in Toronto and Mark Seland in Western Canada—settle in their new responsibilities.
Meaghan has been described as the ultimate teammate. She is quick to share the spotlight with colleagues and she will always stand in front of the spear for her team when a dispute occurs with a client. Her ability to provide humble, yet concise advice and support has led her to develop strong relationships with many across the Firm. As a result, everyone wants to be on her team when projects come forward.
Meaghan also excels at navigating client relationships with grace and driving new business initiatives. She leads by example, rolls up her sleeves, and knows how to get things done. In that sense, she truly personifies AVENIR GLOBAL’s values and her engagement inspires others to emulate the way of our Firm.
2023 Luc Beauregard Award
Jonty Summers (Hanover Dubai)
Recipient of the People Leader Award for Hanover, Jonty Summers has been selected as this year’s winner of the Luc Beauregard Award for his accomplishments as the managing director of Hanover’s Dubai office.
Jonty established the Dubai operations in 2017 and led its rapid expansion. Despite working in a tough market with challenging clients and often difficult circumstances, he leads one of the most motivated groups of staff at Hanover. Jonty takes great pride in this team that he has personally put together and is always eager to reward and recognize their effort. He knows how to get the best out of them, while also ensuring that expectations are delivered upon.
Jonty also plays an important role in mentoring emerging leaders at Hanover. He has supported the development of two directors on his team, who have grown and flourished into important contributors for the Firm.
Jonty’s approach to leadership and his ability to unite people towards a common goal has led to remarkable client success for Hanover in the Middle East, and through these achievements, he perfectly exemplifies the spirit of the Luc Beauregard Award.