Suffolk-based PR and marketing agency, Genesis, has invested in its digital team amid record demand from businesses to invest in online services in the wake of the pandemic by appointing James Smith as a Senior Digital Account Executive.

Businesses have recognised the shift to digital accelerated by Covid and are significantly stepping up investments in online advertising, SEO (Search Engine Optimisation), websites and other digital services, the agency, which has grown to 18 employees, said.

James graduated from the University of Lincoln with a master’s degree in marketing in 2017 following an undergraduate degree in advertising and marketing.

He previously worked at one of Suffolk’s largest leisure providers and was responsible for social media, SEO, paid advertising, and email marketing services. James also has business-to-business experience in the healthcare and manufacturing sector.

James said: “I’m very excited to have joined Genesis and will relish the opportunity to learn and develop new skills at such an ambitious and forward-thinking agency. There’s so much potential in digital services for any company right now and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Director Penny Arbuthnot said: “We are very glad to have James on board and grow our digital expertise at such a pivotal but still challenging time for many organisations.

“We’ve seen record investments in digital marketing during the pandemic as businesses have had to react quickly and adapt to changing needs to stay competitive and resilient. We’re confident this trend will continue this year and beyond.”

Genesis provides results-focused communications solutions for clients in today’s digital world, including building and managing brand reputation and driving business or organisational goals through an integrated, multi-channel approach to PR and marketing. It works with clients who are leaders and influencers across a variety of business, industry, public and charity sectors.