Investor Relations Post-Brexit: Business as Usual or Brave New World?
Trying to understand the impact of the Brexit vote on the UK economy and businesses is challenging. The ripple effects on everything from office space in the capital to mobile phone charges remain speculative. For Investor Relations (IR), this uncertainty presents both challenges and opportunities, much like Brexit itself.
Challenges and Opportunities in Investor Relations
Brexit has led to diverse opinions about its implications for UK companies. IR and management teams face inherent challenges as new regulations and agreements gradually take shape. The role of lead corporate communicators has broadened significantly in recent years. The emergence of a different kind of investor and a wider range of stakeholders now demands an Investor Relations Officer (IRO) with a broad and adaptable range of business, financial, and communication skills.
The rise of Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) and governance issues has become an essential part of IR communications. IR teams will play a crucial role in delivering an integrated and consistent narrative to meet the Financial Reporting Council’s (FRC) guidelines. They must articulate the potential impact of Brexit on their business effectively.
Adapting Communication Strategies
In crafting their narrative and corporate messages, IR teams are tailoring content for different channels, recognizing that much IR communication is now conducted via mobile devices. This trend encourages more regular and dynamic communication between corporates and stakeholders. It has prompted IROs, lead communicators, and marketers to develop more creative content.
A seasoned IR Director succinctly stated: ‘Business is about getting stuff done’. Regardless of new agreements and frameworks, companies are expected to perform, and blaming poor performance on Brexit is not an option. Some businesses and industries will be more impacted by Brexit’s instability and uncertainty, influenced by their operational locations and their customers and investors.
To weather the storm, and for some, to capitalize on the opportunities Brexit presents, investor relations and strategic communications teams will play a vital role.
If you are looking for a new role in Investor Relations, or for more information about how we can help you find the best talent in Investor Relations, please contact Lucy Cairncross today.
