Getting to Know: Kirsty

You might already know that Kirsty is a fan of wheat beer, but avocados? Not so much. There’s more to our new PR manager than just pints and green fruit though  – read on to find out what!

Tell us a bit about your role at Harris.

I oversee our PR and content work, from developing each clients’ PR plans for the coming months, to writing in-depth features and securing media coverage.  I get to dip into lots of aspects of the business, because we like to make sure the PR, design, social media and advertising work together so my job is very varied.

How would you describe the culture at Harris?

Very friendly and supportive.  It’s very collaborative – everyone knows their role, but no one is in it for themselves, and we all work hard to get the best result for our clients and each other.

Are there any projects you’re particularly excited to work on this year?

We have some great event-based projects coming up later in the year, and I’m looking forward to guiding some of our clients as they get to grips with content marketing.  I also like CSR projects and a lot of our clients are very good in this area: they’re genuinely passionate about giving back to their communities so it’s not just ticking a box.

What made you choose to work in PR?

I’ve always liked writing and I’m naturally chatty so working in communications is a good choice for me.  I like that every day in PR is different, and as the industry is constantly evolving I’m learning all the time – so it’s never boring.

What does your press release writing playlist consist of?

My music taste is varied, but I love 80s rock music – New Order, Joy Division, Depeche Mode.  If I need a bit of extra motivation ‘Good as Hell’ by Lizzo is my current choice.

You love city breaks – where would you go on your perfect weekend away and why?

Somewhere I’ve never visited before.  Stockholm and Bratislava are both on my ‘to do’ list in the next few years: I like places with good food and interesting history and from what I’ve heard they both fit the bill.

Where’s your favourite place in Leeds to go for a beer and what would your first pint/bottle there be?

On a sunny day, Belgrave Music Hall because the roof terrace is gorgeous, but if I wanted somewhere cosy I’d go for Friends of Ham.  They both always have good beers but Three Swords by Kirkstall Brewery is my all-time favourite, and it’s brewed just around the corner from the office.

You hate insects and avocados but if you had to hold a moth or eat avocado on toast, which would it be?

Definitely the avocado! If a moth got into my house, I think I’d rather move out than have to deal with it.