Strata Communications

At Strata we believe that clear, timely and well-researched communication is the heartbeat of successful environmental programs.

Strata Communications is dedicated to providing clients with original ideas and creative solutions. Our approach to environmental communications starts with a thorough understanding of your needs and goals, as well as your unique strengths, challenges — and potential hurdles. Indeed, Strata takes an integrated approach to every project — whether it’s a newsletter or a full-blown communications strategy. We diligently research, set clear objectives, develop memorable themes and messages and build in evaluation techniques to measure success. Above all, we ensure the project ties in to our client’s mission and corporate goals. Strata adds value to clients in other ways, too. Our virtual agency structure allows us to work with other like-minded professionals in Atlantic Canada and beyond. We pull together the best team for the job — project by project. This virtual agency approach means lower costs to the client, and more personalized service from the communications team.

The Strata Advantage…

Strata Communications is one of the only public relations firms in eastern Canada to focus on environmental communications. Many firms “dabble” in the field; few specialize in it. We know the players, the issues — and the methodologies. We can also get up-to-speed on projects quickly because we’re on top of the latest environmental thinking and trends.

Environmental communications calls on unique knowledge and experience that can only be honed in the field. Strata Communications specializes in risk communication, public consultation, community relations, social marketing, crisis communication and issues management. We also produce print and audio-visual materials that de-mystify complex issues and lead to understanding and support among stakeholders. And we design media relations programs that build trust and credibility.

Strata’s principal, John M. Gray, has designed and carried out communications programs for many of Atlantic Canada’s major environmental initiatives, including:

¨ Operation Irving Whale ¨ Halifax Harbour Clean-up Project ¨ National Contaminated Sites Remediation Program ¨ The Canadian Environmental Protection Act ¨ Sydney Tar Ponds Clean-up ¨ Newfoundland Oil Burn Experiment ¨ Canada-PEI Water Management Agreement

John M. Gray — Principal, Strata Communications

John has over 14 years’ experience as a public relations professional in Atlantic Canada. As a senior communications advisor to Environment Canada from 1988 to 1995, he spearheaded regional and national public relations campaigns across the environmental spectrum.

From community-based programs such as the Environmental Partners’ Fund to sensitive, complex projects — including Operation Irving Whale and the Sydney Tar Ponds Clean-up — John’s strategic approach to public consultation, community consensus and behavioural change have set the standard for grassroots communications programs in the Atlantic provinces.

Equally adept at counselling management in the boardroom or de-mystifying environmental issues for school and community groups, John offers a unique blend of strategic thinking and tactical expertise to his clients.

In 1995, John established Strata Communications, a consultancy specializing in environmental communications. Strata’s work is designed to inform, educate and influence key stakeholders. Our services and counsel include:

¨ issues management ¨ crisis planning ¨ community relations ¨ public consultation ¨ risk communication ¨ government relations ¨ environmental education ¨ media relations & training ¨ print & media production ¨ speeches & copywriting On top of his extensive practical experience in environmental issues, John brings a strong theoretical focus to his work. A full-time teacher in the Department of Public Relations at Mount Saint Vincent University from 1995-98, he is abreast of the latest PR management thinking, principles and research. In fact, his ability to translate theory and research into real-life solutions marks his work as both an educator and public relations practitioner.

Strata’s Associates

Strata Communications has a wide range of associates in the Atlantic provinces, and beyond. Depending on the scope and nature of each project, Strata selects and works with the leading professionals in the industry — from research firms to graphic designers to multi-media producers. Once we know our client’s specific communications needs, we can determine if outside suppliers are required — and choose the best talent for the project.
Public Relations Agencies