BEIJING—Ruder Finn Asia has strengthened its corporate communication capabilities in China with the addition of Michael Zhao as senior counsel. Zhao joins Ruder Finn from British Petroleum, where he served as the director of corporate communications with regional responsibilities for press, corporate branding, executive communications, internal and external communications. He previously worked with the national energy company China National Petroleum Corporation, with responsibilities in international affairs.

SYDNEY—Corporate communications specialist Sefiani has launched a new multicultural communications service, targeting Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse population, with an initial focus on the Chinese, Indian, and Islamic speaking communities. In the first month of the new service, Sefiani has been engaged on three multicultural communication projects, by India-based YuppTV, a leading Internet TV provider; for Islamic wealth manager Crescent Wealth; and for Hotels.com on the development of its annual Chinese International Travel Monitor global report.
 
HONG KONG—FleishmanHillard has been chosen to provide strategic communications and media relations in China for ista, a global leader in the consumption-dependent billing of energy, water and ancillary costs. FleishmanHillard has been assigned to build the company’s profile and brand image among key stakeholders in China.

BANGALORE—Edelman India has hired Ipshita Sen to lead its South India operations including offices in Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad. She will be based out of Bangalore and will report to Rakesh Thukral, chief operating officer, Edelman India. Ipshita will also formalize and lead Edelman’s employee engagement offering nationally. She has experience with companies such as Perfect Relations, Gulf Finance House, Team Young & Rubicam, Leo Burnett, and Rediffusion DY&R.