{"id":2479379,"date":"2025-03-13T11:27:12","date_gmt":"2025-03-13T11:27:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/prgn.cullencommunications.ie\/?p=2479379"},"modified":"2025-03-13T12:14:06","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T12:14:06","slug":"internal-communications-function","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/prgn.cullencommunications.ie\/es_es\/prgn-presents-podcasts\/internal-communications-function\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Build a Global Internal Communications Function"},"content":{"rendered":"

You\u2019ve been thrust into the role of corporate communications for a global, publicly traded company with more than 17,000 associates worldwide. Following a strategic review of the business, improved corporate communication was identified as one of the keys to the company\u2019s future growth and success. Historically, many of the company\u2019s functions \u2013 including corporate communication \u2013 operated in a decentralized manner. So, you have a clean slate to build the function from the ground up. The task ahead of you is both daunting and exciting. Where do you begin?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Meeting the Challenge: How RPM International Took Internal Comms Global<\/strong><\/p>\n

This was the exact question Tammy Zollner faced in 2021 when she was promoted to senior director of corporate communications at RPM International Inc<\/a>. RPM owns subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials, and related services\u2014best known for its consumer brands, such as Rust-Oleum, DAP, and Zinsser.<\/p>\n

From the start, Zollner understood that a global internal communications function would help align over 17,000 associates spread across time zones, cultures, and job functions. Supported by Roopco\u2014RPM\u2019s long-standing public relations and investor relations agency<\/a> partner\u2014she aimed to create a central strategy that would improve employee engagement, build awareness of key company priorities, and ensure unified messaging across the organization, while maintaining an entrepreneurial culture<\/p>\n

Laying the Groundwork: Establishing an Internal Communications Foundation<\/strong><\/p>\n

Assembling the Right Team<\/strong><\/p>\n

One of the earliest steps was to build out a team with diverse skills\u2014writing, design, video, and social media\u2014while leveraging Roopco for strategic counsel and support. By tapping into specialized expertise, Zollner and her newly formed corporate communications group could create high-quality content for employees around the globe.<\/p>\n

Immediate Courses of Action<\/strong><\/p>\n

From day one, RPM had to overcome the complexities of a multi-lingual, multi-time-zone workforce. Some early wins included:<\/p>\n