Carolien Pors

Started in banking (ABN Amro) and remained ‘in house’ for a decade. Transitioned to join the press department and became a spokesperson, learning from the best.

Launched her own business in 2007 and built up a very stable client portfolio in a relatively short period of time. Always consciously worked singlularly – a soloist, with a tendency towards perfectionism.

Remains distinguished from the competition by being an extension of the client: working tandem and in an integrated manner.

Enjoys the dynamics of financial markets, the spontaneity of the economic cycles, and macro-economic research that she can sink her teeth into.

Prefers being proactive with her approach to the press, and working to promote ideas rather than keeping information away from the public.

Troublesome or sweet as a child?

Stubborn. My father taught me not to be satisfied too quickly, and I was always challenged to go the extra mile. That is also why I am a perfectionist and have a tendency to work independently.

Is this your ideal profession?

I never planned my career, although it turned out very well. I could have studied medicine and became a doctor – or explored a creative profession, which I really admire. I think could have been happy with other professions, but I consider myself terribly lucky to find myself in the situation I am in.

It is very important for me to choose how I work and for whom I work. For a few years now, I have also had the luxury of being able to say ‘no’ once in a while.

I am not a 9 to 5 person, and I would be deeply unhappy if I did not have my flexibility.

Are you an idealist or a realist?

I am a realist. That is also reflected in how I work. A big part of my job is managing expectations. I never promise anything that is not achievable, so sometimes you have to disappoint clients. But I want to under promise and over deliver. In the long run, that works better. I refuse to fail to deliver.

How do you prefer to work?

I really like irregularity and spontaneity; having variety, where no day is the same – not only because of the subject matter, but the diversity of people work. There is a lot of transitioning quickly and thinking on your toes, and that ensures that it is never boring.

What do you add to a team?

In cooperation with clients, I really act as a colleague and not as a service provider. In crisis communication, I like to take the lead and bring calm to the situation; I believe that there is always a solution, as long as you keep an eye on all interests. And most of the time, the solution to any problem is to think along with the journalist and bring the parties concerned together. It is key to be reliable and easy to reach, no matter the time or situation.

What’s the link to Stark Narrative?

Omara and I have known each other for a long time. Years ago, we were introduced via a mutual friend. At the time, we had very similar client portfolios and way of working. It had always been great to share experiences so in 2014 we decided to work from a shared office space. When necessary, we support each other. Omara is the greatest sparring partner I could wish for!