Welcome to the Telum Spotlight, an ongoing series showcasing people working in the PR and Communications space, freelancers and those launching their own boutique agencies. Today we shine the Spotlight on Laura Sedgwick, Director and Founder of Sedgwick Communications.

By way of Introduction:
I’m a skilled communicator with 13 years’ experience working in agency PR in the UK, New Zealand and Australia. I am curious about the world and a keen storyteller with a passion for writing and a commitment to excellent results for my clients. Sedgwick Communications is an independent PR agency that works with both consumer and corporate clients to tell their stories through public relations, social media and content. 

First job:
My first ever job was working as a sales assistant in The Body Shop at weekends. It actually taught me a lot, including the need to manage difficult customers, which are the base skills I still draw upon now when managing clients. I also never smelled so good!

One thing you would change about the communications industry:
I think agencies need to be more flexible when it comes to working hours and WFH arrangements to accommodate family commitments or just general time for ourselves. I remember working long hours in agency and noticing that there weren’t many women with families in the senior leadership roles because it wasn’t viable to have both. It was one of the main reasons I decided to start up my own agency to have the flexibility to work and look after my young family, and I’m really passionate about ensuring my team has this opportunity too. I want people to know it is possible to have both! 

Most admired journalist:
Leigh Sales, she has such a diverse skill set. She can do the hard hitting interview style but also the lighter weight content via her podcast Chat 10 Looks 3. The calibre of her reporting is one of the best in the industry and she shows great integrity in the way she presents her stories.

Advice to anyone starting out in comms:
Be curious about the world around you and try to soak it all in. Remember you’re just starting out, so you’re not expected to know everything. It’s not about having all the answers, it’s about asking the right questions.

Essential daily reading:
I start my day with Radio National, which is my alarm and wakes me up every morning. I also read all the news outlets including national mastheads, news.com.au, ABC and SBS. It’s important to stay across the news daily. 

Favourite book:
Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte.

Favourite film:
I’m a diehard fan of The Princess Bride.

Dream holiday:
I’m a wine and food enthusiast, so my dream holiday would be campervanning around Italy and stopping off at all the wine regions. 

Clickbait fact about you:
I once served Nicolas Cage a pint of ale. 

Quotable you: 
A large flat white, extra hot.