Better Business / Better Business
‘A first-class public transport system would make such a difference to Bristol’
Joanna Randall is the founder and managing director of Purplefish, a public relations and social media consultancy that offers a range of communications campaigns to both business and consumer brands. The Paintworks-based firm offers expertise in the tech, property, business and community sectors.
Joanna advises clients on marketing strategies and how to communicate issues affecting business, people or the wider communities which they serve. She says the business is motivated by values, adding: “we pride ourselves on working with integrity, honesty and in collaboration with others.
“We are a business with purpose and playing an active role in the Bristol community is central to our culture.”
What’s the one thing that inspires you to get up in the morning?
Not knowing exactly what the day will hold. Every day is different and that’s why I love what I do, I also really enjoy working with and interacting with people who inspire me.
If you could pick one thing to change in Bristol, what would it be?
Public transport! It’s always been unreliable compared to other cities – why can’t we get it right? It would make such a difference to business, the local economy and people’s lives if we had a first-class system that was reliable, easy to use and accessible.
What does a Better Bristol mean to you?
Better Bristol means striving to reduce the disparities which exist in our city in education, housing, work and opportunity. Businesses need to play an active role in engaging with people from all over the city, contribute to causes that work to address inequalities and invest in infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
What one action could you as an individual take? And what action could your company take?
I actively offer mentoring support and will always do this – everyone should once they have valuable experience and insight to offer to another person.
As a company, we invest in creating opportunities and experiences for people looking to work in our field, we donate five per cent of our profits to local causes and we encourage volunteering throughout the year.
What do you want to see from the Bristol business community in the next five years?
More diversity of opportunity and a wider range of people in top jobs and running businesses; more women on boards and commitment to improving the city for all.
Main photo courtesy of Purplefish
Read more: ‘I want to see diverse businesses growing and thriving throughout Bristol’
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
