Irvine Partners’ Nicole Jacobs Named Data Professional of the Year at the 2026 IN2 SABRE EMEA Awards

Johannesburg, South Africa — April 24, 2026 — Irvine Partners is proud to announce that Nicole Jacobs has been named Data Professional of the Year at the prestigious 2026 IN2 SABRE EMEA awards. This global recognition highlights Jacobs’ strategic role in integrating advanced data analytics with creative communication strategies to deliver measurable impact for clients across Africa and Europe.

The IN2 Sabre awards:

The IN2 SABRE awards recognise the most innovative work in the industry, specifically focusing on how technology and data-led insights are reshaping the public relations landscape globally. Jacobs’ win underscores a shifting landscape where technical precision and analytical depth are now just as vital as narrative craft.

Nicole Jacobs: Elevating PR Through Data Science

As the industry moves toward a more measurable era, Nicole Jacobs has been at the forefront of developing frameworks that translate complex data into actionable PR insights. Her work has enabled Irvine Partners to move beyond traditional metrics, offering clients a clear and direct look at the direct ROI of their communication campaigns.

The award recognises her exceptional ability to use data not just as a reporting tool, but as the foundation for insight-led storytelling, ensuring that every campaign is backed by empirical evidence and strategic insight.

“Data is the silent engine behind our most successful creative work,” says Rachel Irvine, CEO of Irvine Partners. “Nicole’s recognition as Data Professional of the Year is a well-deserved tribute to her brilliance and her ability to use the data to find the human story within. She has been instrumental in ensuring that our agency doesn’t just reach audiences, but understands them deeply.”

A Milestone for Analytical Excellence

In a year where Irvine Partners also secured wins for its internal ‘Unicorn School’ and multiple EMEA finalist spots alongside its clients, Jacobs’ individual accolade stands out as a testament to the agency’s commitment to high-level specialisation.

“Winning this award is an incredible honour, but more importantly, it validates the work we are doing to bring more transparency and precision to the PR industry,” says Nicole Jacobs. “At Irvine Partners, we believe that data and creativity aren’t opposing forces, but partners. Using data to drive strategic outcomes is how we ensure our clients’ voices are heard in an increasingly crowded digital landscape.”