Communication professionals, both senior inhouse executives and experienced consultants, have the opportunity of a lifetime to play an ever more significant role, serving as a social antenna, guiding policy matters and strategy, and engaging with multiple stakeholders, communicating what their organisations, or clients are, stand for and aim to achieve. In this lab, our research focuses on the communicator’s role, foundational concepts, stakeholder engagement and strategic sector communication. Our past research has looked at contemporary issues like corporate purpose, the future of the chief communication officer, and employee engagement.

This report presents findings from a research project on the reputation, communication, fundraising, and volunteer management of 35 leading non-profits in Singapore. Conducted with NTU graduate students in partnership with research firm CARMA, the study examines sector challenges such as declining public trust, donor confidence, and volunteer engagement, offering insights into how organisations navigate these issues.

This report examines how 100 Singapore companies articulate corporate purpose and identity. Findings show purpose remains underdeveloped, with firms relying on traditional mission and vision statements and conventional communication channels. The study recommends that organisations clearly define and communicate purpose, involving leadership and employees, to strengthen strategy, engagement, and societal impact.

This report presents insights from interviews with 50 senior leaders on employee engagement and communication. It finds that engagement is driven by effective leadership and requires HR and communication to act as leadership functions. The study highlights the impact of COVID-19, digital transformation, and well-being, recommending integrated, purpose-led, and data-informed approaches to build agile, committed workforces.

This report outlines a global research project examining the evolving role of chief communication officers. Based on interviews with 50 communication leaders and a professional roundtable, it finds the function at a crossroads amid organisational change. The study stresses the need for CCOs’ strategic access to CEOs, leadership in engagement and crisis communication, and stronger cross-functional collaboration.