A creative communications professional, Dave Allan MCIPR has almost 30 years of PR and media experience. After 10 years working in the internal communications structure of petrochemicals giant ICI, where he was a winner in the Editing for Industry awards, he spent 17 years within the fast-moving industry of Premier League football, leading Middlesbrough FC’s PR strategy throughout a period that took in five major cup finals, two UEFA Cup runs and a multitude of superstar signings.
Dave has an extensive track record of coordinating high-impact media strategies to achieve press coverage throughout the sports, corporate and public sector fields.
With fantastic media contacts, Dave has worked across the PR, media relations, event management, publishing, community relations and marketing fields within the diverse industries of football, chemicals and the public sector.
He coordinated news conferences for five major cup finals and the unveiling of major stars such as Juninho and Paul Gascoigne, attracting up to 200 media members and achieving positive worldwide exposure worth £millions.
He worked closely with and directed external marketing and design agencies on commercial activities including season ticket campaigns that achieved 30,000 sales and record-breaking kit launches.
Dave also helped Middlesbrough FC achieve a reputation as arguably the foremost community club by planning and promoting CSR-based activities, gaining national and local media coverage, an achievement recognised by the Premier League during the high-profile Creating Chances scheme, 2007-09.
He ensured a consistent public message by briefing and advising senior figures and managers including Steve McClaren, Gareth Southgate and Tony Mowbray, together with many high-profile footballers ahead of news conferences, events and media interviews.
Dave also engaged with supporters, sponsors, stakeholders, community groups and governing bodies (including FA, UEFA and FIFA) to achieve first class relationships and strong two-way communications.
Since launching Dave Allan Communications in July 2011, he has carried out PR and media work for a range of prestigious clients, including Middlesbrough Council, SABIC UK Petrochemicals and two projects backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund.