Tonya Garcia

Given the damage that corporate reputations have suffered over the course of the past year, many companies have recognized the need to engage with consumers, establish competitive dominance, or simply shed some positive light on their organizations.

Doug Parker of US Airways talks to Tonya Garcia about digital media and communicating policies that aren't received well by consumers

MUNICH, GERMANY: Allianz Global Investors (AllianzGI) has promoted Karen Cooperman to head of corporate communications.

NEW YORK: Although women have long been known as the key purchasers for American households, a new study finds they are also gaining influence over categories typically dominated by men, such as consumer electronics and cars.

NEW YORK: Skanska USA Building has promoted Tom Crane to chief human resources and communications officer.

I recently spoke with Francie Schulwolf, VP of corporate communications for the Americas at InterContinental Hotel Group about the internal communications efforts at the company, tied to its rebranding of the Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands. She stressed the importance of communicating on the employee level in order to instill "that sense of pride" that will then translate to good customer service and fully create a successful rebranding effort. Because Holiday Inn is largely franchised, getting franchise owners on the same page is equally important. Having a close relationship (the franchisee association is located in the IHG HQ) helps, and the consistent message that results is critical, said Schulwolf.

HACKENSACK, NJ: Mark Clemente has joined Steinreich Communications as VP and director of the corporate practice.

NEW YORK: Echo Research has launched Echo Sonar, an online automated media analysis system.

CHICAGO: Ogilvy PR Worldwide has promoted Nathan Friedman to MD of the firm's Chicago office, effective January 1, 2010.

NORTHFIELD, IL: Kraft Foods launched an educational video on volunteerism that it hopes will go viral as part of its first "Make a Delicious Difference Week."