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Fiic Martin Deakin
Fellow of the Institute of Internal Communication - Chief storyteller at ThoughtWorks
Professional Background
Fiic Martin Deakin is a seasoned communications professional with over twenty years of experience dedicated to the art of storytelling as a catalyst for positive change. His philosophy, articulated in his mantra of 'Sharing great stories that inspire people to change,' underscores his commitment to empowering individuals and organizations alike. He works closely with C-suite executives to develop comprehensive communication strategies that not only share valuable narratives but also facilitate effective change within organizations.
Fiic’s career is marked by a diverse range of roles in prominent organizations, where he has honed his skills and crafted messages that resonate with employees and stakeholders alike. Currently, he serves as the Chief Storyteller of global employee communications at ThoughtWorks, where he employs his expertise to shape company narratives that inspire and engage teams. His role involves not only the creation of engaging content but also the execution of tactical initiatives that align with broader organizational goals.
Education and Achievements
Fiic Martin Deakin graduated with a degree in communications, equipping him with a foundational skill set that would serve him well throughout his career. His educational background has provided him with the theoretical knowledge necessary to navigate the complex landscape of corporate communications successfully.
Throughout his impressive career, he has held notable positions such as Communications Manager at the Education Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and Director of global colleague communications & engagement at Study Group. His tenure at each organization was characterized by his innovative approach to engaging employees through compelling storytelling techniques.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Fiic has also embraced freelance opportunities, allowing him to work on diverse projects that further showcase his versatility and adaptability in the communications field. This includes his time at Colt Technology Services as a freelancer, where he was instrumental in enhancing communication strategies that resonate with team members across various functions.
Achievements
Fiic has made significant contributions to organizations ranging from tech giants to reputable public service entities. His dynamic experience across various industries highlights his ability to tailor communication strategies to meet unique organizational needs effectively. As the Chief Storyteller at ThoughtWorks, his role includes amplifying employee voices and shaping narratives that contribute to a vibrant and cooperative workplace culture.
Not only has he been pivotal in shaping internal communications, but his work has also led to increased engagement levels among employees, a critical factor in driving organizational success. His approach often involves constructing tactical plans, producing communications material, and executing initiatives that directly influence employee engagement and satisfaction.
Fiic’s previous roles have further cemented his reputation as a skilled communicator. He served as Communications Manager at Wm Morrisons Supermarkets, where he navigated the complexities of engaging a diverse workforce, and at Virgin Media, where he managed internal communications and led change management initiatives. His broad spectrum of experience includes working with both established companies and dynamic startups, allowing him to easily adapt to varying corporate cultures and needs.
In every position Fiic has held, his focus has been on utilizing storytelling to connect with audiences, inspire them to take action, and ultimately drive positive changes within organizations. By understanding the power of narrative, he effectively supports teams and leaders in crafting their visions into actionable communications, resulting in enhanced overall performance and cohesion among teams.
Fiic is a mentor and thought leader in the communications space, always eager to share insights and best practices that can help others realize the potency of a strategic communication approach. His commitment to storytelling not only drives his professional achievements but also fuels his passion for making a difference in people’s lives.
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