In this episode Justin speaks to Julian Walker, the dynamic Group Managing Partner at Instinctif Partners, a firm at the forefront of insight-led communications. With a passion for unlocking potential, Julian’s leadership fuels transformation, not just within his incredibly talented teams at Instinctif and Truth Consulting, but across the clients and brands they serve. His work is defined by a strategic blend of external communications, social engagement, and leadership that drives meaningful, sustainable impact.Beyond the boardroom, Julian is an adventurer at heart, having navigated jungles, deserts, and remote seas, sometimes with unintended detours. In addition to his communications activities, he writes on travel and humour, chaired a fund designed to empower and develop young people’s true potential.

Takeaways

• Julian Walker emphasizes the importance of audience-centric communication.
• AI is often overhyped as a solution for communication challenges.
• Understanding where your audience is is crucial for effective messaging.
• The rush to automate can negatively impact employee development.
• Creativity thrives on collaboration and in-person interactions.
• The evolution of marketing communications has shifted from one-way to interactive.
• Investor communication must adapt to digital channels and audience needs.
• Management's control over a company's destiny is key to investor confidence.
• The UK market has potential for growth despite current challenges.
• Julian's books reflect his experiences and insights in travel and humor.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Julian Walker and Instinctif Partners

02:50 Julian's Journey into Communications and Agency Life

05:55 The Importance of Audience-Centric Communication

09:00 Navigating the AI Hype in Communications

11:51 Creativity in a Remote Work Environment

15:01 The Evolution of Marketing Communications

18:03 Investor Communication in the Digital Age

20:49 Market Forces and Corporate Communication

24:04 Optimism for the UK Market

26:47 Julian's Books and Final Thoughts

LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Julian on LinkedIn here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Justin on LinkedIn here⁠