Black Vanilla Passes PRCA’s Communications Management Standard

Black Vanilla has achieved the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) Communications Management Standard (CMS) – the ‘hallmark of PR excellence.’ 

The CMS combines elements of ISO9001 and Investors in People with criteria specific to a PR and communications consultancy.  

 Consultancies are scored on nine core areas including leadership and communication, business planning, business improvement, financial management and systems, campaign management, client satisfaction, new business, people management and diversity.  

 The CMS assessor remarked: ‘The audit included financial information, leadership and communication and business planning. All evidence provided was coherent and comprehensive. The business plan was especially strong with a clear focus on business and financial objectives, SMART objectives, a sound analysis of risks and areas for improvement.’ 

 The process is repeated annually and offers clients proof that the agency is a well-run business with all the correct systems and structures in place. Clients have peace of mind that they are buying a professional service from a PR and communications company that is committed to excellence. It also demonstrates to staff that the business has a genuine commitment to their development. 

 Black Vanilla is the only Channel Islands-based agency to hold this accreditation.  

 ‘We have been working towards this assessment throughout 2022, and the experience has helped us to strengthen our processes and policies,’ said Nichole Culverwell, Black Vanilla’s Agency Director.  

 ‘Having achieved a Silver Award at this year’s CIPR PRide celebrations and received the Scale Up Business of the Year at last week’s Véyaon Awards, we are delighted to follow those wins with this accreditation. Passing the CMS is an endorsement of our client service, first-class campaign delivery and our commitment to developing the skills of our team. 

 ‘As always, this was a collective effort, and I’d like to thank the Black Vanilla team for their dedication to the process.’