2015 Top Places to Work in PR: Marina Maher Communications

Marina Maher Communications (MMC) has worked hard to differentiate itself from competitors large and small by creating the kind of culture that allows world class talent to excel. This generation of talent flourishes in a flexible and supportive environment where they are valued enough to work autonomously.

But it’s never just about the work; having fun and down time are essential for energy and creativity. One agency mantra is ”celebrate everything” and they do – from Halloween to Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo.

Numerous studies show that work flexibility is linked to increased employee engagement, which impacts productivity and growth. MMC also recognizes that a focus on outputs and results is more critical than face time. In past years, MMC has offered flexible work arrangements, including flexible schedules and working remotely from other states on a case-by-case basis. Because agency environments have changed so rapidly, MMC launched a new flexibility philosophy and policy to all employees in 2015 to ensure the agency remains an employer of choice. It now offers all MMC employees the flexibility to work from home, work non-standard hours or work a reduced schedule – subject to their team leader’s approval.

The MMC Masters Program is a multi-level internal training program designed to keep its people growing professionally and personally. The program is customized to meet the needs of MMC, both organizationally and individually. Focus areas are based on key areas of development. MMC offers a seasonal curriculum designed to address ‘just in time’ organizational needs.

The curriculum includes: social media, crisis management, communicating effectively, managing across levels, critical thinking, budgeting, presentation and client leadership. “Meet the Media” lunch & learn sessions where MMC invite TV producers, magazine editors, online influencers and print journalists to have informal chats with staff are very popular sessions.