Catching up with my university tutor, baby-faced, multi-talented, Prof Ralph Tench

Professor Ralph Tench is the Director of Research for Leeds Business School and the elected President and Head of the Board of Directors for the European Public Relations Research and Education Association (EUPRERA). 

He was one of my tutors at Leeds Met back in 1994, having left the field of journalism and advertising and ventured into academia. The girls loved him, the lads loved him, everyone loved Ralph. 

In this podcast we reflect on the last 30 years (nearly), and how he helped me get my first job, was my tutor for my dissertation - and no doubt the reason I got a first for it - and now, a fairly regular beer companion. 

We cover a wide range of topics, from Ralph's personal history and experience to a broader discussion on the field of communications, education, and the impact of technology. 

Ralph shares his journey from his early education and various roles in communications and academia to his current position and interests. They discuss the importance of practical learning, the value of international experiences, and the evolving nature of the communications industry. 

The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by technology, the importance of ethics in communication, and the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Prof Tench emphasises the significance of networking, mentorship, and continuous learning throughout one's career.

Here are five key themes from our conversation that stand as guiding principles for a successful career:

1. The Power of Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Ralph emphasised the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world. His career trajectory, from journalism to PR, and then academia, exemplifies the need to evolve continually. "You need to be flexible within that the skill sets you require," Tench remarked, highlighting the essence of staying relevant in the ever-evolving PR landscape.
2. Practical Experience is Invaluable: Reflecting on the blend of theory and practice in our education, Tench noted, "the power, of course, was this great blend of theory and practice." This balance is crucial in PR, where understanding theoretical frameworks is as important as applying them in real-world scenarios.
3. Ethics and Responsibility: In an era where manipulation of information is easier than ever, Tench stressed the importance of ethics in communication. "Understanding what our responsibilities are in those roles as well," he said, is fundamental in ensuring that our PR practices contribute positively to society.
4. The Significance of Networking and Mentorship: My career, significantly influenced by Ralph's guidance, underscores the value of building a robust network and seeking mentorship. These relationships not only provide opportunities but also enrich our professional journey with diverse perspectives.
5. International Exposure and Cultural Sensitivity: Tench's work and experiences abroad reinforce the importance of international exposure. Understanding different cultures and global market dynamics is crucial for PR professionals in a globalised world. "It's an absolute passion of mine to get out of the restrictive, nationalistic," Tench shared, emphasising the broadened horizons that come with international experiences.

Prof. Ralph Tench's journey and insights are a testament to the dynamic and multifaceted nature of PR. 

As others navigate their paths in this field, let his experiences and wisdom guide you toward a career marked by adaptability, ethical practice, continuous learning, and a g

If you enjoy listening to this podcast why not check out some of the others in season 1 & 2. Or perhaps you fancy taking part yourself? If so why not get in touch. You can find me via LinkedIn or Twitter