August 23, 2024 • News
SEC Newgate UK, a leading communications and PR agency based in London, has become known for its insights-led approach across three primary sectors: communications, advocacy, and research. With a team of over 1,000 employees worldwide and a spot in the top 20 of the PR Week league table, efficient operations are crucial for the agency's continued success. To meet this demand, SEC Newgate UK relies on Paprika, a specialist agency management software designed to optimise processes for service-based businesses like theirs.
Over the years, SEC Newgate UK has expanded its reach both nationally and internationally. While headquartered in London, the agency operates across various regional offices, enabling it to serve clients on a global scale. This international expansion has brought with it increased operational complexity, making the choice of management software critical.
As SEC Newgate’s COO and CFO Nina explains, Paprika was chosen for its ability to handle the intricate needs of a large communications agency. The software’s flexibility and adaptability have allowed the agency to streamline everything from project management to financial reporting.
Paprika is integral to SEC Newgate UK’s internal operations. The agency uses it to track employee hours, manage third-party costs, and monitor project profitability, all in real time. According to Nina, the software has been configured to mirror the way SEC Newgate UK functions as a business. With different users requiring various licenses, Paprika allows the team to operate with precision and customisation, tailoring the system to their specific roles.
This level of customisation is particularly important in a service-based consultancy like SEC Newgate UK, where no two projects are exactly the same. The agency requires a system that not only tracks financials but also integrates seamlessly with the diverse functions of a PR and communications business. Nina credits Paprika’s flexibility with making it the ideal solution, stating that it has "worked brilliantly" for their needs.
SEC Newgate UK’s relationship with Paprika doesn’t end at implementation. The agency is constantly working to improve its use of the Paprika, ensuring it keeps up with the evolving demands of their business. Client Engagement Manager India Quow, who has been supporting SEC Newgate UK for several years, plays a key role in this process.
India regularly visits the agency to help optimise their use of Paprika, offering guidance on everything from dashboard enhancements to new features. According to Nina, India’s support has been invaluable. "She knows our business inside out," Nina says, praising India’s ability to work seamlessly with everyone from the CEO to junior staff members.
These quarterly meetings between India and the SEC Newgate team are an essential part of their partnership. During these sessions, India provides insights into software upgrades and conducts on-site demos, helping the agency get the most out of Paprika’s capabilities.
The personal connection between SEC Newgate UK and India is a prime example of the strong relationships the agency strives to build, both with clients and partners. As Nina explains, having in-person meetings with Paprika’s representatives strengthens the bond between both parties, fostering better communication and collaboration. For SEC Newgate UK, it's not just about using the software but also about cultivating long-term, productive relationships that enhance business operations.
As both COO and CFO, Nina places great value on the ability to generate reports quickly and efficiently. With Paprika’s predefined reports, she can easily access the data needed to make informed decisions. This functionality is essential for an agency that needs to stay agile in a fast-moving industry. Paprika’s reporting capabilities help SEC Newgate UK track performance, manage resources, and maintain profitability, all with minimal administrative burden.
For SEC Newgate UK, Paprika has proven to be the perfect agency management software solution. Nina highly recommends the platform for any communications or service-based agency, citing its flexibility, ease of use, and ability to adapt to specific business needs. By providing the tools necessary to track hours, costs, and profitability in one system, Paprika has become a crucial asset in helping SEC Newgate UK operate more efficiently.
In conclusion, SEC Newgate UK’s success is in part due to its effective use of Paprika. The software’s tailored functionality, ongoing support from India Quow, and ability to grow with the agency have made it an indispensable tool for managing their operations. For agencies looking to streamline processes and improve overall efficiency, Paprika offers a proven solution that meets the unique needs of service-based businesses.
