Lauren Hughes and Jon Block 5-year FINN Anniversary Q+A

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Lauren Hughes and Jon Block 5-year FINN Anniversary Q+A

June 25, 2026

This month, we're celebrating two team members who are marking five years on the FINN Global Public Affairs team! We asked them to reflect on their journeys, favorite moments, and what continues to inspire them as they help drive impact for clients and collaborate with colleagues.

1. Looking back on your first day at FINN, what has surprised you most about your journey over the past five years?

Lauren Hughes:
What has surprised me most is how much I've learned - not just about PR, but about the ins and outs of so many different industries. Working with clients on new issues has expanded my worldview and made me a more agile communicator. I love learning, so having the opportunity to work across a variety of projects and continuously build experience with new clients has been incredibly rewarding.

Jon Block:
I mostly agree with Lauren's answer, but to add something different, I don't think I expected to enjoy media relations work as much as I do. Even when I'm not the one writing the story, working closely with reporters to help them tell their important stories to help generate change or contribute to a meaningful national conversation is just as fulfilling.

2. Is there a standout initiative or accomplishment from your time here that you're especially proud of? Why?

Lauren:
It's hard to choose just one. The standouts for me are our sustainability work, which took me to Iceland twice; promoting democracy through thought leadership alongside several high-profile leaders; and helping prevent child drownings through our work with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Knowing that work helped save lives is something I'll always be proud of.

Jon:
There are a lot of accomplishments I'm proud of over the past five years, but the moments that stand out most are the ones achieved as part of a team. Whether it's securing top-tier exclusive coverage across multiple verticals for a National Geographic announcement or delivering strong media results and on-the-ground support for the recent Greater Together LA event, celebrating those wins together is always more rewarding than any individual achievement.

3. What keeps you excited about the work after five years, and what advice would you give someone just starting their career at the agency?

Lauren:
Meeting new people and working on a wide variety of projects keeps every day interesting. My advice is to dive in, ask questions, and don't be afraid to take risks. The FINN team is incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, and our "work hard, play nice" culture is real-you'll have the guidance and encouragement you need to grow throughout your career.

Jon:
Whether it's something completely new or something I've done a hundred times before, I still enjoy the opportunity to immerse myself in the parts of PR I love most. If there's an account, project, or assignment that excites you, be proactive and ask to get involved. Everyone at FINN is eager to teach, support, and help you grow.

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