LONDON — Public sector and purpose-focused specialist agency 23red has won a competitive pitch to develop the Open University’s marketing and communications strategy for 2021.

The agency will help the flexible online learning leader integrate its B2B and B2C communications to attract more students and employer partners.

Open University director of marking and communications Ceri Rose said: “The pandemic has transformed the education landscape so we’re looking forward to working with 23red to help the OU spearhead the learning revolution and bring opportunity to everyone.

“PR and social are the beating heart of our multi-channel campaign plans and 23red’s highly collaborative and strategic approach combined with their strong passion for our brand make them the perfect partner.”

Jody Hall, 23red’s PR partner, said: “As a world leading expert for online learning, the Open University opened up degree-level learning for generations of people unable to follow the more traditional routes to university. We are working with the OU during a time when their social mission is more relevant than ever before to help change lives and open up education for all.”

Hall joined the agency last January after 15 years at Freuds to launch 23red’s PR division, expanding its public sector offer to purpose-driven brands in the private sector. At Freuds, she led the roster of government clients, including Public Health England.