The PRCA is delighted to announce that Rhona Blake, Managing Director of FleishmanHillard Ireland, and one of the most respected and influential figures in Irish PR and communications has been inducted into the PRCA Hall of Fame 2026, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the public relations and communications profession in Ireland.
For four decades, Rhona has played a pivotal role in shaping the PR and communications profession in Ireland, through her service as Chair of the PRCA, her commitment to professional standards and her drive to embrace innovation and relationship building. Rhona has an exceptional ability to forge partnerships, embrace creativity, and enable long standing change in communications. Few individuals have left such an indelible mark on the development of modern public relations in Ireland.
Brian Harrison, Chair of the PRCA, said:
“Rhona's contribution to our profession has been extraordinary. She has led by example throughout her career, championing excellence, professionalism and innovation while helping to develop generations of communications practitioners. Her influence extends far beyond her own agency, and she is a truly deserving recipient of the PRCA Hall of Fame honour.”
Under her stewardship, FleishmanHillard Ireland, which was founded by John Saunders, has consistently been one of the country's most successful communications consultancies, earning numerous national and international awards while advising top Irish and international companies and brands.
Rhona has significantly contributed to the development of talent within the communications landscape. The agency's alumni continue to build successful careers across the communications profession both in Ireland and internationally, reflecting Rhona's longstanding commitment to mentorship, nurturing development, and opportunity.
Commenting on the honour, Rhona Blake said:
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the PRCA. Public relations has been an enormously rewarding profession and I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues, clients and industry peers throughout my career. I owe a particular debt of gratitude to John Saunders whose mentorship, partnership and friendship have had a profound influence on my career. This honour reflects not only my own journey, but also the many talented people who have contributed to the growth and success of our profession over the years.”
The PRCA Hall of Fame recognises individuals who have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to the public relations and communications profession in Ireland.
Following the inaugural induction of Jim Walsh in 2025, Rhona Blake is the second communications professional to be admitted to the PRCA Hall of Fame.
The PRCA Spotlight Awards Ceremony took place on Thursday 25th of June at The Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin, where Rhona Blake’s Hall of Fame induction was celebrated.