Neil Levett is joining the JLA Media team as Lead Consultant for its newly-established Oil & Gas division, taking responsibility for a fast-growing part of the organisation’s PR and communications activities.
The role has been created in response to market demand for JLA to extend its maritime and offshore communications services into the upstream oil and gas sectors. Timing reflects renewed approaches from existing and potential clients seeking support as global investments in the offshore industry continue to recover.
In line with JLA Media’s policy of offering sector-specific expertise, Neil brings 16 years of experience in the offshore market to the company. Previous roles include that of Global Associate Publisher, Offshore Engineer, where he developed a deep understanding of the global oil, gas and renewables markets, as well as unrivalled contacts among its influencers.
“Neil’s appointment continues JLA Media’s preference for investing in the people best equipped to deliver on PR and communications strategy, planning and implementation,” says Debbi Bonner, Managing Director, JLA Media. “Our customers value working with a truly professional team able to offer insights, experience and networks of direct relevance to their businesses, also prizing our close relationships with global and local media.”
Levett comments: “I am delighted to join the JLA Media team and look forward to building the agency’s profile and client roster in Oil & Gas as the market returns to stability and shows signs of significant upturn.”
The commitment to upstream is further demonstrated by an agreement for well-known oil, gas and energy specialist John Sheehan to provide dedicated writing services in support of Levett. Sheehan’s experience includes roles editing the European Offshore Petroleum Newsletter, Offshore Technology magazine and Hart Energy’s Subsea Engineering News; he has also been a regular contributor E&P magazine, Offshore Engineer, the Journal of Petroleum Technology and IHS Energy publications.
“Clearly, there are strong links between our maritime experience and upstream Oil&Gas, especially when it comes to safety, the environment and security,” adds Bonner. “However, perhaps the main ‘synergy’ is that JLA Media chooses to work with those with the track records and skillsets matching the standards we set for ourselves in maritime.”