WASHINGTON, DC—APCO has promoted Brad Staples to global CEO, with founder Margery Kraus taking on the role of executive chairman.

Staples is elevated from his existing role as international president, succeeding Kraus who has served as CEO since founding the independent firm 30 years ago.

In addition, Evan Kraus has been named APCO president and MD  of operations, with Neal Cohen taking on the role of vice chairman and president of global client strategy.

“As we celebrate the close of our 30th year, I wanted to make sure we had a plan in place that created certainty for the company as we look forward to our fourth decade,” said Kraus.

“Today’s announcement is a seamless evolution of the leadership of our firm designed to drive stronger global collaboration, deeper relationships with clients and more compelling, creative programming that delivers greater impact for clients and their stakeholders while empowering a new generation of the firm’s leaders.”

Both Staples and Evan Kraus have spent 18 years at APCO. Staples will be based in London, while Kraus and Cohen will remain in Washington, DC.

“Brad, Evan and Neal represent the very best of APCO – deep global perspectives, understanding of the changing communications landscape and commitment to providing the very best thinking to our clients,” added Kraus. “They have helped build APCO into the company it is today, and I am convinced these changes and the decisions that will follow will set a very exciting and positive course for our future.”