Our Team
A strong, dedicated group of individuals from a range of backgrounds has helped build Premier PR into a dynamic organisation that is quickly becoming regional Victoria’s most recognised public relations company.
Premier PR consultants are well known for their understanding of the relationship and processes that operate between relevant community groups and the media.
Managing Director and Founder: Joanna Stevens
An experienced consultant with extensive skills in government relations, strategic communications and issues management, Joanna has a strong network of business and political contacts. With professional qualifications in journalism and public relations she has hands-on experience in strategy development and campaign management having been involved in several high profile communications campaigns. She established Premier Public Relations in August 2002 after recognising a need for a specialist public relations firm that could meet the diverse needs of rural and regional Victoria.
Email: jstevens@premierpr.com.au
Senior Account Executive: Prue Rayner
Prue joined Premier PR where she saw an exciting opportunity to pursue her passion for strategic communications and issues management. Previously, Prue was the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for a Melbourne IT company, and more recently worked as a copywriter for a growing superannuation company. Prue has varied experience in marketing and communications, ranging from proposal writing, newsletter production and web design, to brand management and strategic communications planning. She has qualifications in the Arts (media and communications, sociology) and recently completed a postgraduate diploma in Public Relations.
Email: prayner@premierpr.com.au
Communications Consultant: Bernie O’Brien
Bernie has almost 25 years experience in the communications industry as a writer, editor and designer. Having spent 21 years on a regional daily newspaper Bernie has an in-depth knowledge of the issues and events that interest regional communities. Her experience as a senior journalist has involved working with staff and the public on numerous publications, initiatives and events. Whether it is media releases, web pages, brochures, direct mails or newsletters, Bernie has the experience and expertise to provide a professional, creative product to suit any target audience.
Email: bobrien@premierpr.com.au
Event Manager: Deborah Sleep
With an extensive background in event and function management and a strong history in the operational management of sporting organisations, Deborah is a committed and passionate professional who strives to ensure clients’ expectations are not only met but exceeded. In her role as Event Manager, Deborah brings together her experience in human resources, change management, project and regional service and event management to deliver events of the highest possible standard. Deborah works closely with her clients to ensure the end result is exactly what they anticipated and more.
Email: dsleep@premierpr.com.au
Account Executive: Rachael Kennedy
Rachael Kennedy is a public relations assistant to the Premier PR team, providing support to our senior consultants in delivering campaigns and projects when required. Rachael has recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Public Relations) from Deakin University, Geelong. She possesses a willingness to learn and offers an enthusiastic approach in her dealings with clients and colleagues.
Email: rkennedy@premierpr.com.au
Executive Assistant: Anna Gordon
Anna joined the Premier PR team after working for several years as the risk management nurse at the Anaesthetic Group and then as the administrator and book keeper for her family’s business, D.R. Gordon Building. Anna is highly organised providing excellent project management skills and vital support and assistance to the Premier PR team.
Email: admin@premierpr.com.au