TALKFORCE MEDIA - Key Persons
Chris's expertise covers all facets of media, public relations, and communications strategy, from planning and facilitation to harnessing the power of social media in effective campaigns.
He kickstarted his career as a television journalist with Channel Ten, gaining valuable experience before transitioning to public relations with the ACT's Emergency Services Agency, where he fine-tuned his media and PR skills on the front lines of emergency management. His diverse career spans roles in criminal and civil justice, national security, mental health, and crisis management, encompassing both government and not-for-profit sectors. He's held media advisor roles for Federal Ministers and senior executive positions in peak industry bodies.
Today, Chris specialises in sharing his vast skill set with our clients. He helps them create integrated strategies, enhance their media relations, master public relations, and navigate social media management. Chris's engaging presentation style makes training and facilitation a breeze.
He holds a First-Class Honours degree in television journalism from the University of Canberra and boasts recognised training in leadership, strategic management, public relations, change management, and governance. With Chris on board, your communication and media endeavours are in expert hands.
Kristen Connell brings a wealth of experience to the table as a seasoned media professional. With a background in journalism and a decade in the Press Gallery at Parliament House, she's interviewed CEOs, Ministers, and union officials, giving her an insider's perspective on the media landscape.
As a political press officer for a Federal Senator, Kristen delved into speechwriting, public relations, and media liaison, providing media advice during election campaigns. She's spent almost a decade in roles that encompass public relations, media management, strategic planning, workshop facilitation, lobbying, policy development, and project management for prominent national organisations and government departments.
Kristen's extensive background in media relations makes her a trusted advisor for organisations looking to enhance their media presence, convey positive key messages, and manage their public image, especially in times of intense scrutiny.
As a Partner at Talkforce Media and Communications Strategists, Kristen offers media and communication training, develops and executes media strategies to boost clients' public profiles, crafts marketing plans, prepares successful submissions, and leads strategic planning workshops. Kristen holds a BA in Journalism and tertiary qualifications in business management, making her a versatile and valuable asset to any team or organisation seeking media excellence.
For ten years, Simon Kinsmore led media and communications for ACT Policing and the Australian Federal Police, mastering the art of strategic communication in this dynamic media landscape. His impact was twofold-shaping essential social media policies and optimising the flow of critical police messages and community engagement.
Simon is now a seasoned training exponent and our crisis communication expert.
As he transitioned to AFP National, Simon continued to drive media success by offering strategic counsel, steering media strategy, crafting compelling marketing campaigns, and delving into the world of social media initiatives. His influence extended beyond borders as he accompanied the AFP executive on high-stakes global media engagements.
Simon's expertise took the forefront at the National Bushfire Recovery Taskforce, where he led media activities following the devastating ‘Black Summer' bushfires.
Simon's decade-long tenure in the ACT Government was a saga of innovation and influence. He left an indelible mark through a brand review, the introduction of groundbreaking social media activities, and the orchestration of successful marketing campaigns.
For over a decade, Simon played a pivotal role in the Public Information Sub Committee within the Australia and New Zealand Counter Terrorism Committee, imparting his expertise in crisis media training, which echoed across states and territories, enhancing preparedness and communication during challenging times.
Simon also lent his media acumen as a trusted media adviser to ACT and Federal government cabinet ministers. Simon Kinsmore's story is one of unwavering dedication in the realm of media and communications, establishing him as a standout expert in the field.
Zoe Wagner is an award-winning communication professional with an impressive two-decade career spanning the private and public sectors.
Zoe has consistently shaped and effectively communicated major business development, programs and change initiatives for a diverse range of organisations including the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and Defence Prime - Lockheed Martin Australia.
She is a flexible and adaptable communications leader with strengths in strategic planning, brand development, campaign development, media management and organisational change. She has led major programs and business captures that span both international and domestic markets, with a strong record of delivery.
Zoe's passion lies in partnering with organisations to provide pragmatic and tailored solutions to the most significant challenges they face. Her collaborative approach ensures that she not only understands the unique needs and goals of each organisation but also delivers results that exceed expectations.