ABOUT US
DI is the most experienced PR agency in the Channel Islands, with roots going back to the early 1980’s, when the communications industry locally was still in its infancy. The current incarnation of DI was set up by James and Kathryn Filleul in 2002, on leaving the BBC.
Originally, the idea was to provide a brilliant media relations service for clients, to help them work much more effectively with the news media, something which was sadly lacking at the time.
We have grown from there into a comprehensive communications consultancy with clients across a wide range of industry sectors. Our work spans public affairs, strategy, social media support, sponsorship management, copy writing, training, press office, speech writing … if it involves communication then we will have done it, advised on it or be learning it!
The whole point of DI is to provide a brilliant service for our clients. We look after them, and they stay – our biggest clients have recently clocked up more than a decade of working with us. In an intensively competitive, and ever-changing, sector, that’s something to be really proud of.
We do that by always being available, by being excellent at what we do, by always looking to improve, by understanding that its really only ever about the client.
We don’t shout about what we do, because that’s not the way we are. And what more do you need than more than 35 years’ success in the industry, and clients who really value your support?
Chris Rayner
CHRIS RAYNER
Area of Expertise
Chris’ background is in journalism and he understands how the broadcast and print media works. His numerous roles have given him excellent writing and communication skills and have instilled the importance of accuracy and keeping to tight deadlines. He has a wide network of contacts, from past and present politicians to business leaders and volunteers. Those have helped him find news stories whilst working as a trusted journalist and helped him develop an understanding of island life. Outside work, Chris has developed skills as a volunteer for uniformed youth organisations and also enjoys competing in triathlons and dabbling in half-Ironman races!
Before DI
Chris has worked in print and broadcast media for over 20 years, starting his career at the BBC in Salisbury where he also enjoyed work experience on Newshour, the flagship current affairs programme on the BBC World Service. Chris graduated from Lancaster University with a 2:1 in Politics and International Relations before completing a post graduate diploma in Broadcast Journalism.
On island he has worked for BBC Radio Jersey, where he was the political reporter and news presenter, before becoming the News Editor at the Jersey Evening Post where he ran a team of nine journalists. Chris is as at home providing short pieces for hourly news bulletins as he is producing documentary series, using his skills to deliver stories as diverse at the latest threats facing the Finance Industry to a series on life in the island during the First World War.
Favourite quote
"I don’t want to look back. I want to look forward, I still have something to say to people."
Joe Strummer
Favourite cocktail
Anything that is gin, rum or whisky based really floats my boat.
James Filleul
JAMES FILLEUL
Area of Expertise?
James is DI’s founder and MD, over the last twenty-one years in the media business, he has built a very broad range of skills, and helped clients with both daily PR issues and fundamental strategic problems.
In terms of PR work, James usually focusses on communications strategy and challenging media issues. His principal work ranges from public affairs to media relations, copy writing and the effective use of social media.
As the MD he is responsible for the smooth running of the agency. He oversees DI’s client service, business development and administration.
As a former President of the Jersey Chamber of Commerce, James is the firm’s media and presentation skills trainer, and he is used to giving both soft and challenging media interviews, as well as speaking to audiences of several hundred people.
Before DI?
James was the news editor for the BBC in Jersey. Following a degree in English Literature, he obtained his professional journalism qualifications, before becoming a news trainee with the BBC. Within two years he was promoted to Senior Broadcast Journalist (one of the youngest in the BBC) and was in charge of the radio news output in Jersey.
At the BBC he was also the local political correspondent, commentating on meetings of the States Assembly, producing political analysis, and hosting a weekly political interview program. He later moved into producing and presenting for BBC TV in the Channel Islands.
Outside of Direct Input, James has broad business experience as one of the founder non-executive directors on the Board of Jersey Business Ltd, as well as acting as co-owner/Communications Director for a virtual airline offering a network of routes out of the Isle of Man. He is the joint founder and Editor of Bailiwick Publishing, which produces a daily digital newspaper for Jersey, Bailiwick Express, and the monthly business magazine, Connect.
Favourite quote?
If I had to chose one, it would be something from Bob Dylan, who is probably one of the few writers with a line for anything. I think you always have to move forward – learning new skills, and working out a different way of approaching something – I hate stagnating. So I’d go for “He not busy being born is busy dying.”
Favourite cocktail?
Easy. I’m not sure it’s really a cocktail, but I’m usually found enjoying a vodka & tonic. Grey Goose vodka, quality tonic, three big ice cubes, a slice of lemon, and one of lime. Not bad in a tall glass!