Blackbirds

Blackbirds was founded in 2015 by Agnese Strazda, a seasoned communication practitioner with deep roots in the financial sector. Having spent 14 years as the communication area lead at SEB in Latvia, where she headed the PR unit and later the entire communication department while also supporting the CEO in operational and performance management, Strazda identified a gap in the market for a nimble, advisory-led communications firm that could offer C-suite level strategic thinking without the overhead of a large agency. Blackbirds was born from this vision: to provide high-touch, senior-level counsel to organizations navigating complex reputational landscapes.

Specialized Expertise in Crisis and Strategic Communication

Blackbirds focuses squarely on public relations and communications services, with a pronounced specialization in crisis communication, communication planning, and media relations. The agency operates as a strategic partner for organizations that need to manage sensitive issues, build employer branding, or craft compelling narratives. A key differentiator is their emphasis on "messaging lines to take" and speech writing—services that directly support C-level executives in delivering consistent, clear, and impactful communication. Blackbirds also offers moderator services for events and internal communications, ensuring that leadership messaging is cohesive across all channels. The agency’s experience in the financial industry, particularly in Latvia, gives it a strong foundation in regulatory, investor, and stakeholder communication.

Comprehensive Services for Reputation Management

Based in Latvia, Blackbirds provides a structured suite of services tailored to organizations that require expert guidance in managing their public profile. Their core offerings include:

• Crisis communication planning and response
• Communication strategy and planning
• Employer branding and internal communications
• Media relations and press office management
• Speech writing and messaging development
• Event planning and moderation
• Issue management and reputation advisory
• Executive communication coaching and support

These services are delivered with a hands-on, senior-level approach. Agnese Strazda, as the owner and lead practitioner, remains directly involved in client engagements, ensuring that Blackbirds brings seasoned judgment and a strong network of media and industry contacts to every project. The agency’s work often involves helping organizations prepare for and navigate high-stakes situations, from financial disclosures to public controversies.

Who Benefits from Working with Blackbirds

Blackbirds is an ideal fit for mid-to-large organizations in Latvia and the broader Baltic region that need specialized, senior-level communications support without the overhead of an in-house team. Companies in the financial services, technology, and professional services sectors will find particular value in the agency’s deep understanding of regulated industries and stakeholder management. Organizations facing a crisis or planning a significant communication campaign—such as a product launch, leadership change, or merger—can rely on Blackbirds for strategic counsel and execution. The agency is also well-suited for C-suite executives who need a trusted advisor for speech writing, media training, or managing sensitive public statements. While Blackbirds is a boutique firm, its founder’s extensive experience at SEB means clients gain access to the kind of high-level strategic thinking typically reserved for large corporate communications departments.