LONDON—Fenella Grey has been promoted to UK managing director at Porter Novelli, less than a year after joining the firm.

Grey, who arrived at the agency after spending six years at Freuds, will continue to report to EMEA president Sally Ward.

Ward remains on extended leave, according to an agency spokesperson. Her return date is yet to be confirmed.

“Fenella is the right leader to take the UK office to the next level,” said Karen van Bergen, CEO, Porter Novelli.

“Not only does she have deep experience leading large teams and working with some of the world’s biggest brands, she has a keen eye for talent and a track record of driving revenue growth across a wide range of clients."

Since joining the firm, Grey has overseen new business from General Electric and the UK's Technology Strategy Board.