Experienced public relations specialist Melanie Hickey has entered into a partnership with leading golf marketing and communications company The Azalea Group.
Hickey has more than 20 years’ experience of publishing, media, sales and marketing and, in 1990, in response to the golf course development boom in the UK and Europe, established Melanie Faldo Public Relations & Marketing, following her marriage to the former world number one golfer Nick Faldo.
Her knowledge of the world of sport – and the key players in it – precipitated the expansion of her client portfolio into Premier League football, high goal polo, professional golf and F1.
Azalea is one of Europe’s leading golf marketing agencies including among its client list La Manga Club, Europe’s premier golf, sports and lifestyle resort; Legend Golf & Safari resort, in South Africa; and Failte Ireland, the Irish national tourism authority.
Hickey will work jointly with Azalea on a number of forthcoming projects and believes the alliance will provide a powerful proposition for prospective clients.
She said: “I have watched Azalea’s progress within the golf industry with great interest over the last few years as it has developed into one of the leading agencies in its field.
“The combination of all our skills will enhance our ability to provide creative solutions across all platforms. I’m sure all our clients will be delighted with this move.”
Hickey’s sentiments were echoed by Azalea’s UK managing director, Sean Noble, who said: “Melanie’s strengths are renowned in the golf, sports and leisure industries and a strategic alliance enhances our capabilities and sets us apart in our field. “We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”
Hickey has worked on projects in Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Morocco, Thailand, the Caribbean and South America, while Azalea’s current client list includes companies based in South Africa, Estonia, Spain, Portugal, Ireland and the UK. www.theazaleagroup.com