A free Masterclass designed specifically for freelancers and independent consultants, full of useful insight and practical advice in these challenging times from two leading speakers.

Led by the CIPR Midlands Independent Consultants forum (CIPR Open MIC), freelancers will hear from Nigel Sarbutts founder of freelancer/client matching service, The PR Cavalry and prior to that an independent consultant. Nigel will draw on his experience as both a freelancer and agency MD and give his thoughts about the current freelance market and the importance of a ‘freelance mindset’ to generate leads and new opportunities. Nigel will be joined by Emma Ewing, founder of Big Fish Training, who delivers specialist courses for communications professionals. Emma will share practical advice on pitching with greater confidence for new business, using tried and tested methods that will make a tangible difference to your work.

The practical session will be valuable to professionals who are new to freelancing or experienced consultants looking to network and connect.

Nigel Sarbutts, Founder, The PR Cavalry

Over three decades, Nigel has been the head of three PR agencies in Manchester, London and Leeds and has been an independent consultant since 2010 so he completely understands what motivates both freelancers and agencies when trying to find the right match of skills.

Having seen the traditional agency model evolve he has created The PR Cavalry to help both freelancers and agencies develop new ways of working together that play to the strengths of both parties.

Emma Ewing, Big Fish Training

Emma Ewing is a PR trainer, coach and consultant with a particular interest in communication, people management and personal effectiveness. She advises and trains in a range of organisations in the UK and around the world, meeting PR practitioners from every area of the industry. Before becoming a trainer Emma's career spanned in-house, public sector and latterly high-tech PR in a consultancy environment. She understands the pressures involved in the industry and uses this background to ensure her training is realistic, practical and effective.