Public Relations Services Agreement Template for Pakistan

A Public Relations Services Agreement sets out the terms when a company hires a PR firm or consultant to manage its public image and communications in Pakistan. It covers key details like media relations, crisis management, social media strategy, and brand positioning while protecting both parties' interests under local contract law.

The agreement spells out deliverables, payment terms, confidentiality requirements, and intellectual property rights. It typically includes specific provisions about following Pakistani media regulations, ethical guidelines from the Pakistan Public Relations Society, and requirements for handling sensitive information about listed companies under SECP rules.

Use a Public Relations Services Agreement when launching media campaigns, managing corporate communications, or hiring PR consultants in Pakistan. This agreement becomes essential before starting any PR activities like brand building, crisis management, or social media outreach - especially for companies listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange or operating in regulated sectors.

The timing is crucial when expanding market presence, planning major announcements, or facing reputation challenges. Having this agreement in place protects both parties by clearly defining scope, deliverables, and compliance with SECP guidelines and media regulations. It's particularly important when handling sensitive corporate information or engaging multiple stakeholders.

• Basic PR Services Agreement: Covers standard media relations, press releases, and social media management - ideal for small businesses and startups in Pakistan.
• Full-Service PR Agreement: Comprehensive coverage including crisis management, stakeholder relations, and strategic communications planning - suited for large corporations and PSX-listed companies.
• Project-Based PR Agreement: Focused on specific campaigns or events with defined timelines and deliverables - common for product launches or corporate events.
• Retainer-Based Agreement: Ongoing PR support with monthly deliverables and dedicated team allocation - popular among medium to large enterprises.
• Crisis Communications Agreement: Specialized version focusing on reputation management and emergency response protocols - essential for high-risk industries.

• PR Agencies and Consultants: Sign as service providers, delivering media relations, crisis management, and communications strategy under Pakistani law.
• Corporate Communications Directors: Oversee agreement implementation and ensure alignment with company messaging goals.
• Legal Teams: Draft and review agreements to ensure compliance with SECP regulations and media laws.
• Company Executives: Authorize and sign agreements as client representatives, often CEOs or Marketing Directors.
• Compliance Officers: Monitor adherence to confidentiality clauses and regulatory requirements, especially for listed companies.

• Scope Definition: List specific PR services, deliverables, and campaign objectives aligned with Pakistani media regulations.
• Party Details: Gather complete business information, registration numbers, and authorized signatories from both parties.
• Timeline Planning: Outline project phases, deadlines, and reporting schedules for PR activities.
• Budget Structure: Define payment terms, fees, and additional costs while considering local tax implications.
• Compliance Check: Review SECP guidelines, media laws, and industry-specific regulations affecting PR activities.
• Key Provisions: Include confidentiality clauses, intellectual property rights, and termination conditions.

• Party Identification: Full legal names, addresses, and registration details of PR firm and client.
• Services Scope: Detailed description of PR activities, deliverables, and performance metrics.
• Payment Terms: Fee structure, payment schedule, and expenses policy under Pakistani tax laws.
• Confidentiality: Protection of sensitive information and trade secrets as per SECP requirements.
• Term and Termination: Agreement duration, renewal options, and exit conditions.
• Intellectual Property: Ownership rights of PR materials and content.
• Dispute Resolution: Jurisdiction, applicable laws, and arbitration procedures in Pakistan.
• Force Majeure: Provisions for unforeseen circumstances affecting service delivery.

A Public Relations Services Agreement differs significantly from a Agency Agreement in several key aspects, though both involve one party representing another's interests. Understanding these differences is crucial for Pakistani businesses to choose the right agreement for their needs.

• Scope of Services: PR agreements specifically focus on media relations, brand management, and public communications, while agency agreements cover broader representation rights and business dealings.
• Legal Authority: Agency agreements grant legal power to act on behalf of the principal, whereas PR agreements limit authority to communications and media activities only.
• Regulatory Framework: PR agreements must comply with SECP media guidelines and press regulations, while agency agreements fall under general contract law and commercial agency rules.
• Liability Structure: Agency agreements create direct legal liability between principal and third parties, while PR agreements typically limit liability to the agreed services scope.