Gemma Eccleston is founder and PR consultant at Hendrix Rose PR, a new PR and communications agency based in Manchester.
A seasoned PR consultant with over 13 years of industry experience, Eccleston has previously worked in senior roles at agencies such as PR Agency One and Tangerine Communications. During this time, she’s worked with entrepreneurs, SMEs and high-profile brands such as Decathlon, Allied London, Wiley Edge and Mark Hill.
Launching Hendrix Rose PR in March, the agency provides tailored support to start-ups and SMEs looking for accessible, senior-level PR.
Catering to both B2B and B2C clients, the agency’s current client list already includes Nexer Digital, Teletech and Solarsport.
Here, Eccleston shares all the lessons she’s learnt.
Which single daily habit or practice could you not do without?
Taking some time out for myself in the morning to read the news with my first coffee of the day. Life with a toddler can be hectic at times but having some ‘me’ time first thing in the morning is very much needed and helps prepare me for the day ahead.
What’s been your luckiest break?
After studying Journalism at university, I was keen to land a job in PR. However, it was at the time of the great recession, so it proved difficult, and many agencies were looking for talent that had some form of PR experience. After much persistence though, I landed a job at one of Manchester’s top agencies and the rest is history.
What’s your best failure?
I took voluntary redundancy and instead of perceiving it as negative, I turned it into a huge positive. I used the time wisely to think about what I wanted to achieve and then invested the money I received into my vision
What is the best investment you’ve ever made, either financial or time?
I’m currently taking part in the Stockport Creative Campus programme, an eight-week programme run by IN4 Group, designed to help early-stage creative digital entrepreneurs in Stockport like myself.
As part of the initiative, we’re receiving personalised 1:1 business mentoring, business masterclasses and interactive workshops, as well as lots of networking opportunities. It’s been so helpful and inspiring. I’ve learnt so much already, so it’s been a great investment of my time.
Which podcast or book would you recommend others to read and why?
How To Do The Work by the holistic psychologist Dr Nicole LePera. This is a must-read for anyone on a path of personal growth, and I wish I had read it sooner. It offers support and tools to help you recognise and break free of self-sabotaging behaviours so you can live a happier and more fulfilled life.
What one piece of advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Give yourself the same compassion and kindness you readily offer to others but keep that fire in your belly burning. It’s your ticket to success.
Who or what has had the single biggest influence on your working life?
I’d have to say my partner, Anton. Every day he works so hard for his passion and he’s not afraid of rejection or to take risks to get to where he wants to be, which has really inspired me. He’s also been so supportive, giving me the confidence to go it alone and not let the fears of the unknown hold me back.
Tell us something about you that would surprise people.
I’m a massive Stockport County fan and have followed them through the highs and the lows since I was a kid.
If there was one thing you could change about your career, what would it be and why?
In hindsight, I wish I’d started my own business sooner. Being my own boss has been a game-changer, especially with the flexibility it gives me as a mum. Plus, building something from the ground up feels so rewarding.
What does success look like to you?
Success, to me, isn’t just about fancy titles or money – it’s about finding inner peace and happiness. It’s about personal growth, positivity, and trying to make a meaningful impact in the world.
