She’s been a regular on the beauty PR scene for almost a decade, and now Polly Viska is taking the leap to set up her own PR agency - Viska PR. BD chats to Viska about why she decided to go out on her own, what was involved, and who she is looking to work with.
Why did you decide to launch your own PR agency?
It was time. I love working on various brands and have honed different PR skills over the last decade. Up until last week, I was managing the in-house PR for all 70 brands (phew!) within MECCA (Mecca Cosmetica, Mecca Maxima and Kit Cosmetics), including the likes of NARS, Diptyque and the recently announced Urban Decay. My career has also seen me manage the PR for Target as well as fly the PR flag for quintessential Australian brands at Heritage Brands (, ,). Internationally, I spent a few years working in London and back home, began my PR adventure at . So now I am taking my knowledge and experience to go out on my own. Hello, VISKA PR.
Was it a hard decision to make?
No. I absolutely love what I do. Doing the PR for brands I am interested in and passionate about on my own has always been the dream.
What's involved in launching a PR agency?
Going out on my own has meant starting up a mini office and creating a brand behind the scenes. From logos and a website to building presentations, it has been about getting the back end ready to present to potential clients. Now the structure has been built, it is ready to grow.
Are you still wanting to work with beauty brands?
Yes. Beauty is where my heart is. I fell into beauty PR nearly 10 years ago and have truly loved working with not only the various brands, but the people behind the brands and the gorgeous beauty media.
Do you think you'll branch out into other areas of lifestyle?
Yes. At Mecca I managed a mix of brands, and the lifestyle arena is an area I believe is growing exponentially. From home to health to creating the perfect lifestyle, there is a great need for wellness in today’s seriously busy world.
Do you already have some brands on your books?
Yes. We are working through final details at the moment... I am passionate about creating a brilliant partnership with the right brands and right people.
Who will make up Viska PR?
It is very early days but I have always loved working in a team...
Where do you see Viska PR in five years time?
I see VISKA PR working to grow brands and get huge traction in the Australian market. I still, to this day, get a huge smile on my face seeing a profile story of a brand I have been working on behind the scenes. If I can be doing this for brands now and in five years, I will be very happy.