Mastering the Money, the People, and the Plan for 2026 Success
As 2025 comes to a close, communications leaders are shifting focus from managing the present to preparing for the future. CommPRO’s Year-End Planning Workshop on November 18th, presented in partnership with Anchin and Davis+Gilbert, is designed for decision-makers across public relations, marketing, and communications firms who want to turn insights into impact as they plan for 2026.
The difference between organizations that thrive and those that falter often comes down to how they prepare and execute at pivotal moments like year-end. This workshop invites participants to engage in an open, peer-to-peer conversation about what drives long-term success in a changing business environment.
One major focus will be on optimizing financial performance. As the industry faces continued margin pressure, agency leaders need clarity on how to align resources with strategy. The workshop will explore actionable approaches to improving profitability, managing client contracts, and identifying cost efficiencies without compromising creativity or client service. By examining key financial levers and performance benchmarks, participants will gain a better understanding of how to position their firms for stability and growth in 2026.
Talent strategy will also take center stage. Communications firms are rethinking how they attract, develop, and retain top talent in a hybrid, AI-accelerated world. The discussion will address how to build teams that are not only skilled but also adaptable and motivated, emphasizing how culture and leadership can become differentiators in a competitive talent market. Attendees will exchange ideas on redefining roles, upskilling staff, and structuring compensation models that reflect the evolving expectations of today’s workforce.
Financial preparation will extend to understanding the impact of state and local tax (SALT) nexus—a growing area of complexity for PR and marketing agencies with clients or staff across multiple jurisdictions. Experts from Anchin will break down what SALT nexus means for firms, why it matters at year-end, and how to plan for potential tax obligations that could affect the bottom line. Alongside that, the workshop will cover broader year-end financial planning strategies, such as revenue recognition, cash flow management, and forecasting, to ensure agencies enter 2026 in a strong financial position.
“Communicators are at an inflection point,” said Fay Shapiro, Publisher of CommPRO. “To lead successfully into 2026, we must go beyond reacting to challenges and instead anticipate them. This workshop gives leaders the opportunity to plan with purpose—and with the power of shared industry insight.”
Through collaborative discussion and expert guidance, this workshop will give participants practical frameworks and peer-driven perspectives they can take back to their organizations. By the end of the session, attendees will walk away not only with actionable strategies, but also with renewed confidence in their ability to lead their firms into 2026 with clarity, focus, and purpose.
