AI in Action: Essential Skills for PR & Communications Professionals

The global investment management organisation, Franklin Templeton, has promoted Loretta Lui as Director, Executive Communications and PR.

Relocating from Hong Kong to London, she now leads global executive communications for the firm, overseeing CEO communications, core narrative development, and strategic media engagement aligned with the organisation’s business priorities and industry developments.

Loretta first joined the company in 2013 and was most recently Deputy Head of Corporate Communications, APAC. She also brings industry experience from previous roles at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and City of London. 

The Star Entertainment Group has promoted Jacara Desland to Director of Communications. Based in Brisbane, she will work alongside the leadership team to lead and shape communications across the Group and The Star Sydney.

Jacara brings more than 15 years’ experience across communications and marketing, with previous roles spanning the insurance and financial services, construction, and retail sectors.  

Trans-Tasman integrated communications agency, Tonic Communications, has been appointed by Brisbane-headquartered Morgans Financial, to lead PR for its annual fundraiser, Big Dry Friday.

Starting immediately, Tonic will drive national awareness and participation for the campaign, led by recently appointed Brisbane-based Media and Communications Director, Amelia Oberhardt. The work will highlight Big Dry Friday's impact on rural and regional Australian communities.

Amelia said: "Big Dry Friday is a hugely successful and important initiative that has raised more than $9.5 million over the past eight years.

"We’re thrilled to be supporting the campaign in 2026 and helping drive even greater awareness and participation nationally. It’s exactly the kind of meaningful work Tonic is passionate about delivering."