Strategic Planning Lab
About
In a world of over-supply and under-demand, strong strategy is what sets you apart. Are you ready to build the strategic capabilities that drive measurable business results and strengthen your client relationships? Strategy isn't just a buzzword, it's a superpower. This course gives you the real-world tools and confidence to plan effective strategic communications that add genuine value to your clients' business.
Led by Lisa Divett, Chief Strategy Officer at Dentsu, you'll learn leading industry specialists who bring the latest thinking and best practice to life through hands-on learning, briefs, and direct discussion.
What you'll master
- How brands really achieve growth through strategic thinking
- Situation analysis and using market research
- Using targeting and segmentation as your competitive advantage
- Compelling brand positioning backed by insights
- Building communications strategies that influence consumers at the right moments
- Setting meaningful objectives and measuring real campaign effectiveness
Key outtakes
- Industry-standard frameworks - you'll learn cross-agency best practices and established methodologies
- Competitive advantage - teams equipped with formal strategic training deliver higher-quality work and stronger client outcomes
- Network building - you'll build professional connections across the industry, creating peer networks and collaborative relationships that strengthen the broader advertising ecosystem
How it works
Led by: Lisa Divett, CSO at Dentsu, and industry experts.
Format: 3 non-consecutive days of in-person workshop learning:
- Presentations and Q&A sessions with industry leaders
- Panel discussions with experienced strategists
- A live brief assignment with real feedback from a senior marketing specialist
- Hands-on workshops and takeaway resources for ongoing learning
The details
Who it's for
Mid-to-senior account managers, planners, and digital managers.
2026 dates & booking deadline
Course dates: Wednesday 6th, Wednesday 20th, and Wednesday 28th May 2026
Final assignment presentations: Wednesday 3 June 2026
Booking deadline: Wednesday 22 April 2026
Investment
$1200 + GST (Comms Council members)
$1500 + GST (non-members)
Frequently asked questions
Who is this course for?
Strategy not only drives great creative but it is integral to effective media planning and implementation. This course is for all practitioners who come in to contact with strategy that will ultimately impact their client's businesses.
How is the course delivered?
Each module is discussed by a panel made up of strategists, business directors, creatives and clients.
Can I attend remotely?
No. This is an interactive workshop and in person attendance is essential.
Can I miss a session?
No. This is a continuous learning experience. Attendance on all days is required.
What kind of certification will I receive?
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Lisa Motteram, Head of Talent and Training at lisa@commscouncil.nz or on 021 614 004.