HolmesReport.com Complete PR Industry News http://holmesreport.com/rss_allnews.cfm A comparison of the PR revenue results of the key holding groups reveals that Edelman comfortably outperformed its rivals in the first half of 2010, a period where most networks saw a return to growth. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11803&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11803&typeid=1&goto=story Many corporate leaders are still reluctant to change their marketing approaches for the sake of social networking, according to a new national survey. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11802&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11802&typeid=1&goto=story Anders Edholm has been appointed senior vice president of corporate communications and head of group staff communications for home appliance manufacturer AB Electrolux http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11799&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11799&typeid=1&goto=story Bite Communications has appointed Michelle Herman as general manager, North America, reporting to chief executive Clive Armitage. She will be based in Bites San Francisco office and will oversee the companys North American business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11798&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11798&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11797&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11797&typeid=1&goto=story Insurance giant CIGNA Corporation has named Maggie FitzPatrick chief communications officer. FitzPatrick will have overall responsibility for global communications, reporting to chief executive officer David Cordani. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11796&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11796&typeid=1&goto=story WPP Groupparent to public relations firms including Burson-Marsteller, Cohn & Wolfe, Hill & Knowlton and Ogilvy Pubic Relations Worldwidereported a 3.2 percent increase in its PR and public affairs business in the first half of 2009. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11795&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11795&typeid=1&goto=story Sargento Foods, a leader in the cheese industry for more than 50 years, has selected GolinHarris as its agency of record. The agency has been tasked with leading and managing the companys public relations efforts in four core areas. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11794&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11794&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, the global public relations and healthcare communications company, announced revenues of £87 million for the first half of 2009, with like-for-like revenue growth of 0.4 percent, and a profit increase of 25.6 percent. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11793&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11793&typeid=1&goto=story Francesca Tedesco, former public affairs director at Pfizer, is joining APCO Worldwide's healthcare team as a vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11792&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11792&typeid=1&goto=story West coast public affairs firm Englander Knabe & Allen and New York City-based litigation public relations specialist The PR Consulting Group have entered into a strategic partnership to offer crisis and litigation communication services. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11791&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11791&typeid=1&goto=story Chime Communications, parent company of U.K. public relations powerhouse Bell Pottinger Group, has reported a first-half increase in operating income of 22 percent (including 5 percent organic growth) to £71.1 million. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11790&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11790&typeid=1&goto=story Atomic Public Relations has been named U.S. public relations agency of record for Netgear, a worldwide provider of technologically innovative networking solutions for homes, businesses and service providers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11789&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11789&typeid=1&goto=story Coyne Public Relations has been selected to work with Breastcancer.org, an online resource for expert-reviewed breast health and breast cancer information. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11788&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11788&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Carline Jorgensen as a managing director in the U.S. brand marketing practice. Jorgensen has more than 20 years of experience in marketing communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11787&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11787&typeid=1&goto=story Lagrant Communications, an integrated marketing communications firm that specializes in the Hispanic and African American consumer markets, will celebrate its 20th anniversary in September by committing to yearlong community service projects. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11786&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11786&typeid=1&goto=story Magellan Health Services, a leading healthcare management organization, has named David Carter as senior vice president of marketing and communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11785&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11785&typeid=1&goto=story The Arbella Insurance Group, a leading regional property and casualty insurance company, has selected Greenough Communications as its new agency of record. Greenough is developing and supporting the companys media relations campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11784&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11784&typeid=1&goto=story Canadian National Railway, Canadas largest freight railroad, is working with Hill & Knowlton Chicago, plus new business successes for Schwartz Communications, French/West/Vaughan, Gable PR and j. simms agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11783&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11783&typeid=1&goto=story PepsiCo is to embark on a major drive to advance its sustainability credentials, after completing an international review to identify its new corporate agency of record. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11782&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11782&typeid=1&goto=story When BP responded to its calamitous crisis earlier this year by buying up Google ads around such phrases as oil spill, it again illustrated the apparently inexorable convergence between the worlds of PR and search marketing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11781&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11781&typeid=1&goto=story Audio technology giant Dolby Laboratories has selected Hill & Knowlton as its global agency of record, following a review that included several other international network agencies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11779&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11779&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman Asia-Pacific CEO Alan VanderMolen is to shift to Chicago to take on a new global role overseeing the agencys global practices and intellectual capital. VanderMolens role as Asia-Pacific president will be filled by current EMEA CEO David Brain who will depart London later this year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11778&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11778&typeid=1&goto=story Carson Dalton is departing his position within the BT UK press office to return to Asia, taking on a new role overseeing comms for BT in Southeast Asia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11777&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11777&typeid=1&goto=story American Express has selected UK firm Nelson Bostock to handle its lucrative international brand PR business, following a fiercely contested review in London. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11776&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11776&typeid=1&goto=story Henkel, the German FMCG giant that owns such iconic brands as Right Guard, Schwarzkopf and Persil, has called a global review of its crisis communications capabilities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11775&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11775&typeid=1&goto=story Following the controversy surrounding the departure of chief executive Mark Hurd, HP has selected Connie Guglielmoa veteran reporteras vice president of corporate communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11772&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11772&typeid=1&goto=story The International Association for Measurement and Evaluation of Communication (AMEC) has set up two taskforces under the auspices of its U.S. Agency Research Leaders Group to answer two key questions raised by the recently-adopted Barcelona Principles. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11771&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11771&typeid=1&goto=story Social networking company MySpace has named Rosabel Tao to the role of senior vice president of corporate communications. Tao will oversee all global external and internal communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11770&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11770&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has appointed Darby Doll as managing director of its China operation. Doll begins his new assignment in September and will report to John Morgan, regional managing director, Greater China. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11769&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11769&typeid=1&goto=story Ruder Finn has named Cliff Berman senior vice president of its New York-based consumer and technology group. Berman brings 25 years of broad-based consumer marketing and branding expertise to Ruder Finn. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11768&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11768&typeid=1&goto=story Healthcare communications specialist Chandler Chicco Companies has appointed Alison Wright to a newly created role, based out of London working closely with European operations director Fiona Hall. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11767&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11767&typeid=1&goto=story Kaplow has added Tumi a leading international brand of premium travel, business and lifestyle accessories, to its roster of consumer products brands. Kaplow was awarded the business after demonstrating relevant experience and strategic insight. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11766&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11766&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Jason Teitler as a managing director in the U.S. brand marketing practice. Teitler has experience in sports marketing, digital and entertainment and celebrity programs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11765&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11765&typeid=1&goto=story Zócalo Group, a word-of-mouth marketing subsidiary of Ketchum, has hired Jennifer Severns as creative director of Zócalo Studios. In this new role, Severns leads a team in developing content, interactive and consumer experiences. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11764&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11764&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Zaheer Nooruddin as director and lead digital strategist for its Greater China operations. Nooruddin was previously head of Edelman Digital in China. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11763&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11763&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard Sydney has appointed Scott Rhodie as vice president, digital media, to lead the firms digital media offerings in Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11762&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11762&typeid=1&goto=story rbb Public Relations has been named agency of record for the Orange Bowl Committee. The OBC operates various community outreach programs, youth sports initiatives and hosting of premier sporting and related entertainment events including the Orange Bowl http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11761&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11761&typeid=1&goto=story Trevelino/Keller Communications Group has added two brands from parent company Engineered Conversion Systems to its green, business-to-business and lifestyle practices. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11760&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11760&typeid=1&goto=story Cision, a leading provider of software, services and tools for the media and public relations industry and Critical Mention, which provides comprehensive real-time broadcast capture, have formed a partnership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11759&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11759&typeid=1&goto=story Megan Miller has joined the Produce Marketing Association as public relations manager, bringing a background in agriculture, media relations and industry outreach to the associations public relations team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11758&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11758&typeid=1&goto=story Investor relations and public relations consultancy PondelWilkinson has hired George Medici as a senior vice president, and Ron Neal has been promoted to vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11757&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11757&typeid=1&goto=story Bryan Anderson has been named vice president, governmental affairs, at Southern Company, plus new people in new roles at APX Alarm Security Solutions and Consol Energy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11756&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11756&typeid=1&goto=story Bling Nation, a leading provider of mobile payment technologies, has selected GolinHarris to lead its consumer public relations efforts, plus new business for Fetching Communications, Laughlin Constable and Morris + King. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11755&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11755&typeid=1&goto=story UK PR firm Blue Rubicon has rolled out a new political engagement drive on behalf of Facebook, in a further extension of the agencys growing business with the social networking giant. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11752&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11752&typeid=1&goto=story Euro RSCG PR North American president Marian Salzman has clarified reports that her agency has resigned its role on Wyclef Jeans Haitian presidential campaign, saying that until the bid receives clearance from the Haitian electoral commission, no formal agency decisions can be made. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11751&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11751&typeid=1&goto=story As the use of social media continues to evolve and expand, consumer brands that leverage the NFL and MLB have a significant opportunity to reach a more passionate fan base and create a deeper level of engagement. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11749&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11749&typeid=1&goto=story U.S. consumers and Fortune 1000 executives doubt there is widespread commitment to going green among corporate America, according to the 2010 Gibbs & Soell Sense & Sustainability Study. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11747&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11747&typeid=1&goto=story After an extensive competitive review, the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission has appointed Burson-Marsteller as its communications agency. BM says it will waive all professional fees and provide its services on a pro bono basis. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11744&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11744&typeid=1&goto=story Jennifer Loven, chief White House correspondent for The Associated Press and past president of the White House Correspondents Association is joining The Glover Park Group as a managing director in its public affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11743&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11743&typeid=1&goto=story Peppercom has promoted Ted Birkhahn to the newly-created position of president. Birkhahn has been with Peppercom since 1998, and previously served as chief operating officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11742&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11742&typeid=1&goto=story Trevelino/Keller Communications Group, an integrated public relations, social media and brand communications firm, has added TCBY to its franchising practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11741&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11741&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named Deb Fiddelke, a former member of President George W. Bushs White House staff, as senior vice president and leader of its public affairs practice in Chicago. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11740&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11740&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Daisy Primayanti as managing director for Indonesia. Primayanti brings more than 15 years of experience in banking and pharmaceutical sectors, public relations consultancy, advertising agency, and media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11739&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11739&typeid=1&goto=story The Scott Partnership, a U.K.-based business-to-business communications specialist, has entered the Chinese market with the opening of its new office in Shanghai, citing an opportunity in the market for both the firm and its clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11738&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11738&typeid=1&goto=story French/West/Vaughan has been selected as the agency of record by the U.S. Polo Association, the national governing body for the sport of polo. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11737&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11737&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has been reappointed by Russias TVEL Corporation to provide public relations services in four countries of Central Europe: Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11736&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11736&typeid=1&goto=story MS&LGroup has expanded its healthcare practice in North America with the addition of biotech industry veteran Matt Gardner. He joins as a senior vice president to lead the agency's Western U.S. region healthcare team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11735&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11735&typeid=1&goto=story Rogers & Cowan has been selected by WebSafety, a leading provider of mobile and Internet safety technologies, to manage public relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11734&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11734&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 Malaysia has been appointed as the public relations agency for Fox International Channels, News Corporations international multi-media business operating more than 140 factual and entertainment channels in 32 languages worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11733&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11733&typeid=1&goto=story Gagen MacDonald, the Chicago-based firm best known for its work in employee communications, has hired Sheila Kindig and Helen Paczkowski. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11732&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11732&typeid=1&goto=story Harvard PR has won the U.K. consumer electronics business of Sennheiser; plus new business for Hotwire, Weber Shandwick North, häberlein & mauerer, Firefly Scotland, and Couper and Partners; new people at Penrose Financial. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11731&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11731&typeid=1&goto=story Peter Block has returned to National Public Relations to lead the financial communication service offering; plus new people in new roles at GolinHarris, Olson Communications, and 360 Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11730&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11730&typeid=1&goto=story Affect Strategies has been named public relations agency of record in North America for Kony Solutions; plus new business success for JMPR Public Relations, Morris + King, Laidlaw Group, S3, JS2 Communications and Strategic Communications Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11729&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11729&typeid=1&goto=story A roster of high-profile comms agencies has been assembled to work on hip-hop star Wyclef Jeans Haitian presidential campaign, which may yet be derailed because of the countrys residency criteria. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11728&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11728&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named new leadership and launched a new office in Dubai, following the departure of Ben Morton just nine months into his tenure as GM of Middle East and Africa. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11727&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11727&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 UK MD Kirsty Leighton has resigned her role and is departing the industry, just four months after joining the agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11726&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11726&typeid=1&goto=story British healthcare organisation Bupa is seeking to consolidate its consumer and corporate PR with one agency, in a major rethink of the companys communications strategy in the UK. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11725&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11725&typeid=1&goto=story CIT Group, a leading provider of financing to small businesses and middle market companies, has appointed Margaret Tutwiler as executive vice president, head of communications, marketing and government relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11721&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11721&typeid=1&goto=story Lynne Doll, president of leading Los Angeles independent The Rogers Group and a respected public relations and crisis communications counselor, died August 3 of a stroke at Glendale Adventist Medical Center in California. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11720&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11720&typeid=1&goto=story Alex Mistri, most recently a strategic analysis and economic officer in the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, has joined The Glover Park Group as a managing director in its government affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11719&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11719&typeid=1&goto=story Interel Group has launched a new dedicated Brussels-based practice, Interel 402 PR, following the split of its Belgian business, Interel Belgium, into two companies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11718&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11718&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton and the Shanghai Public Relations Association have launched the Shanghai PR Association Hill & Knowlton Scholarship, which aims to help cultivate the next generation of Chinese public relations practitioners. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11717&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11717&typeid=1&goto=story Food and drug retail giant Safeway has appointed 16-year company veteran Jonathan Mayes as senior vice president of government relations, public affairs, corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11716&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11716&typeid=1&goto=story Bite Communications has expanded its European operation with the opening of a Paris office. The new agency, named Soundbite Communications, will deliver strategic consultancy to international clients, as well as winning new business locally in France. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11715&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11715&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has appointed Robert Philips and Amber Porter Cox as its newest vice presidents in the agencys digital and interactive media group, Dialogue. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11714&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11714&typeid=1&goto=story John Bailey & Associates Public Relations, acquired a year ago by local competitor Lambert Edwards & Associates is adopting the parent companys name. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11713&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11713&typeid=1&goto=story Peppercom has appointed Richard Ouyang to the newly-created position of associate director of digital strategy. Ouyang is a digital strategist with nearly 10 years of experience, most recently in Ketchums digital division. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11712&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11712&typeid=1&goto=story Château Margaux, the renowned French wine estate of Bordeaux, has selected Ruder Finn as its public relations agency for China. Ruder Finn is charged with developing brand positioning, media communications strategy and providing strategic counseling. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11711&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11711&typeid=1&goto=story Jim Quindlen, former interactive art director at Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, has joined APCO Worldwide as a creative director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11710&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11710&typeid=1&goto=story Tier One Partners has been named agency of record for CRICO/RMF Strategies, a division of CRICO/RMF that uses malpractice data to help healthcare organizations reduce medical errors and enhance patient safety. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11709&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11709&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard has appointed Kitty Lee as regional marketing manager, plus new people in new roles at Omnicom, Alcatel Lucent, and Edelman. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11708&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11708&typeid=1&goto=story The Morris + King Company has been retained by Opera Solutions, plus new business successes for Duffy & Shanley, Robin Leedy & Associates, Himmerlich PR and Laidlaw Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11707&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11707&typeid=1&goto=story Larry Rand has been named president and chief executive officer of Publicis-owned corporate and financial communications specialist Kekst and Company. Founder Gershon Kekst will remain active in a newly-created role as executive chairman. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11706&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11706&typeid=1&goto=story Interpublic provided more evidence this week of a robust rebound in the fortunes of the public relations agency business, announcing that revenues at its Constituency Management Group were up by 7 percent in the second quarter of 2010. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11705&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11705&typeid=1&goto=story Camille Johnston is joining Siemens Corporation as vice president, corporate affairs, effective September 7. Johnston, currently works at The White House and serves as special assistant to the President and director of communications for the First Lady. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11704&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11704&typeid=1&goto=story SKDKnickerbocker has added Hilary Rosen, a veteran communications and political strategist, as managing director. Rosen joins the firm after two years leading the Brunswick Groups Washington, D.C., office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11703&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11703&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has become the first major agency to endorse the "Barcelona Principles" for effective public relations measurement. The seven fundamental principles were formally adopted in mid-June by 200 delegates at the 2nd annual European Summit on Measurement. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11701&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11701&typeid=1&goto=story Edelmans multicultural practice has been selected by The Latin Recording Academy as its PR agency of record to develop and execute a national and international media strategy for the 11th Annual Latin Grammy Awards. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11700&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11700&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations firms GBC and Chocolate Communications have come together under a single united brand, onechocolate communications. The firms offices across U.K., France, Germany and U.S. will for the first time operate under one name. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11699&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11699&typeid=1&goto=story Nissan has handed Brands2Life a brief to launch its new Juke model in Europe. As part of the launch, the agency will promote Nissans urbanproof interactive campaign platform in the U.K., and provide campaign content for localisation throughout Europe. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11698&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11698&typeid=1&goto=story GCI Health has appointed a new west coast senior leadership team, naming Jim Wetmore as west coast market leader and Kristin Cahill as deputy director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11697&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11697&typeid=1&goto=story Fishburn Hedges has been reappointed as the communications support agency for the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust for a second year. The decision not to retender follows the success of Holocaust Memorial Day in 2010. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11696&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11696&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has added Suzanne Zurn as vice president, digital advocacy, in its Washington, D.C. In a role that will focus on public affairs clients, Zurn will report directly to Nadina Guglielmetti, WEs vice president, digital consulting. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11695&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11695&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has added David Herrick as an executive vice president in its global consumer lifestyle group. Herrick brings more than 20 years of experience leading consumer marketing programs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11694&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11694&typeid=1&goto=story Penrose Financial, a leading financial services and capital markets public relations consultancy, has been appointed as media adviser for Gravis Capital Partners, a specialist investment advisory firm focused on the U.K. infrastructure sector. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11693&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11693&typeid=1&goto=story Ryanair has awarded its U.K. and Ireland media and communications business to Edelman Ireland, plus new business successes for Johnson King and College Hill. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11692&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11692&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has appointed Stephanie Marchesi, a veteran of senior agency roles at Cohn & Wolfe and Ketchum, to the newly created role of managing director and senior partner, global integrated marketing communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11689&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11689&typeid=1&goto=story Ruder Finn has named former Bloomberg BusinessWeek London senior correspondent Kerry Capell as a senior vice president. She will continue to be based in Europe and will provide senior level counsel for Ruder Finn's multinational clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11688&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11688&typeid=1&goto=story Keep America Beautiful, in partnership with Keep Cincinnati Beautiful, is launching a new litter prevention education campaign developed by Hill & Knowlton and creative partner DavieMcLean. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11687&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11687&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth Group corporate and financial communications specialist Citigate Dewe Rogerson has launched a new service to manage client online crisis communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11686&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11686&typeid=1&goto=story Smith Micro Software, a developer and marketer of software solutions and services for the mobility market, has engaged global communications agency Lewis PR to implement a public relations campaign in the U.S., with international projects. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11685&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11685&typeid=1&goto=story Kim Hoang, a veteran of advertising agency McCann Erickson, has been named head of the European digital practice at Weber Shandwick. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11684&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11684&typeid=1&goto=story Lloyds Banking Group has appointed WPP agencies Cohn & Wolfe and Burson Marstellar to handle a wide-ranging brief that includes both media relations and public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11683&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11683&typeid=1&goto=story Lincoln Financial Group has engaged Cohn & Wolfe to support its communications efforts including branding, corporate positioning and executive thought leadership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11682&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11682&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group has hired Rodney Ferguson as a partner in its Washington, D.C., office. Ferguson, a former managing director and principal of Lipman Hearne, brings more than 20 years of experience. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11681&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11681&typeid=1&goto=story Schwans Home Service, Americas largest direct-to-home food delivery business, has named M Booth & Associates public relations agency of record. The agency will help generate brand awareness among consumers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11680&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11680&typeid=1&goto=story The Morris + King Company has been retained by the University of California, San Francisco, and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health to create awareness for three projects during Breast Cancer Awareness Month http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11679&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11679&typeid=1&goto=story Raymond Siva has joined Edelman in Kuala Lumpur as managing director, plus a new PR director at Langham Hotels and a new business win for Text 100 China. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11678&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11678&typeid=1&goto=story PRCA chief executive Francis Ingham has agreed to remain in his existing role until at least January 2013, plus new people in new positions at Grayling, Argyll and College Hill; new business at Citigate Dewe Rogerson; and the launch of Interel in London. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11677&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11677&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11675&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11675&typeid=1&goto=story Dix & Eaton has added 17 clients during the first half of 2010, plus new business for Allison & Partners, Zenzi Communications, PAN Communications, and JS2. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11674&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11674&typeid=1&goto=story Beleaguered Australian holding company Photon Group is poised to complete re-negotiation of a series of costly earn-out payments with founders of 15 of the 16 agencies it acquired in 2007 and 2008. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11673&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11673&typeid=1&goto=story Healthcare firm Tonic Life Communications has launched its Asian presence via a new office in Hong Kong, helmed by former Ogilvy regional healthcare chief Joanne Basford. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11672&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11672&typeid=1&goto=story Qatar is to embark on a major global comms drive as competition for financial business heats up between rival cities in the Middle East. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11671&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11671&typeid=1&goto=story Omnicom Group, the owner of PR agencies Fleishman-Hillard, Ketchum Pleon and Porter Novelli, reported solid organic PR revenue growth of 5.8 per cent in the second quarter of 2010. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11670&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11670&typeid=1&goto=story NComputing, the company best known for allowing multiple people to share a single PC, has handed its global PR account to BondPR following a multi-agency review. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11669&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11669&typeid=1&goto=story Nintendo UK has handed its £250K consumer and corporate PR account to Bell Pottinger following a fiercely contested pitch. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11668&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11668&typeid=1&goto=story Marilyn Laurie, longtime senior corporate communications chief at AT&T and one of the founders of Earth Day, died at her home in Manhattan on July 14. She was 71 and had been battling brain cancer for the past year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11667&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11667&typeid=1&goto=story MS&LGroup has hired Michael Sullivan as its North American director of its consumer marketing practice, which represents some of the world's biggest brands, including Procter & Gamble, Heineken and more. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11666&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11666&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate and financial communications firm Dix & Eaton has been retained to handle several crisis communications assignments, including a mining accident and major automaker recall. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11665&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11665&typeid=1&goto=story NYSE Euronext has appointed Robert Rendine as senior vice president and global head of corporate communications. Rendine is currently vice president of global corporate affairs at GE Capital Global Banking. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11664&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11664&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has appointed Katarina De Meulder as managing director of a new Brussels-based division that will run European public policy communication activities. De Meulder will report to Grayling Belgium chief executive Russell Patten. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11663&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11663&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller Australia has launched Encoder Public Relations, a standalone offering for clients that will deliver integrated PR programs spanning online and traditional media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11662&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11662&typeid=1&goto=story Technology public relations firm Trevelino/Keller Communications Group has launched Wheelhouse, a brand focused on the delivery of next generation social marketing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11661&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11661&typeid=1&goto=story Sukyi Yau, former co-managing director for Citigate Dewe Rogerson in Greater China, has joined APCO Worldwide as a senior vice president based in Hong Kong. Yau will lead APCOs financial communication practice in Greater China. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11660&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11660&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum has named Debra Forman executive vice president and director of Ketchum Digital. Forman most recently served as senior vice president and director of operations and creative development for Ketchums digital content shop in North America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11659&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11659&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has hired Greg Power as president and general manager for Canada. He will oversee Weber Shandwick offices across Canada and will report to North American president Cathy Calhoun. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11658&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11658&typeid=1&goto=story Goodman Media International, has added five new clients from the print, broadcast, and online media worlds, including Associated Press, for national corporate communications as well as marketing and promotion of new products and services. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11656&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11656&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Susanne Deegan (formerly Chasanoff) as a managing director and Pete Havel as a director in the U.S. public affairs practice. Erin Garvey has joined as a manager for its issues and crisis group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11655&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11655&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has hired Meghan Farmer as director of human resources. Farmer brings nearly a decade of experience managing human resource programs for businesses across the media, corporate and healthcare sectors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11654&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11654&typeid=1&goto=story Yuli Ismartono, deputy chief editor of the English edition of Tempo, a weekly news and current-affairs magazine based in Jakarta, has joined APCO Worldwide as a member of the companys international advisory council. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11653&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11653&typeid=1&goto=story Olson has hired seasoned public relations executive Steve Peckham as enior vice president and director of holistic services. In his new role, Peckham oversees Olsons public relations, account management and interactive disciplines. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11652&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11652&typeid=1&goto=story Virgin Trains has appointed Fishburn Hedges to a public affairs and stakeholder engagement brief as the new government reviews rail policy and the train operator prepares to bid for two key rail franchises. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11651&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11651&typeid=1&goto=story David Gordon has been appointed managing partner of Cohn & Wolfe in Toronto, responsible for ensuring the delivery of communication strategies on behalf of all the firms clients, and the continued growth of the firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11650&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11650&typeid=1&goto=story Aimee Corso and Brian Bogie have joined Waggener Edstrom Worldwide to strengthen and support expansion of its growing healthcare practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11649&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11649&typeid=1&goto=story FD Blueprint has strengthened its public affairs and communication team with three new additions; plus new people at Chandler Chicco; new accounts at Johnson King, Penrose and Firefly. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11648&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11648&typeid=1&goto=story Kate Berg hasjoined Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. as vice president, corporate communications; plus new people in new roles at Volkswagen Canada, USEC and Red Lion Hotels. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11647&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11647&typeid=1&goto=story AVG Technologies, developer of anti-virus software, has selected MS&LGroup as its global public relations agency of record, plus new business for Ogilvy PR, Spetctrum, Greenough, Morris + King, and KCSA. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11646&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11646&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has moved to reshuffle leadership of its technology practice following last months departure of Claudio Carasso, who held global responsibility for the unit. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11645&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11645&typeid=1&goto=story A £1 million campaign to promote milk consumption among school children has been shelved at the last minute because of the UK Governments well-publicised spending cuts. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11644&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11644&typeid=1&goto=story PepsiCo is to select between three agencies as it decides who will handle its lucrative corporate PR business across Asia, the Middle East and Africa. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11643&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11643&typeid=1&goto=story Vaseline has called for its key marketing agencies to present ideas as the Unilever skin care brand determines which one will lead its social media strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11642&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11642&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide has launched the first in a series of studies using its Return on Reputation Indicator. The new outcome-focused methodological tool was developed by APCO Insight, the firms opinion research group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11640&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11640&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Jim Goldman as its new U.S. technology practice chair. The former CNBC Silicon Valley bureau chief will help companies develop strategies to bridge old media traditions and new media opportunities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11639&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11639&typeid=1&goto=story Genesis Burson-Marsteller has restructured its business, appointing Rahul Sharma as president of its public affairs business while Nikhil Dey continues to lead the public relations business as its president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11638&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11638&typeid=1&goto=story BAA has hired Andrew Teacher as head of media relations. He joins from the British Property Federation, where he has worked for four years as the principal spokesman for the UK's commercial real estate industry. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11637&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11637&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, parent company of Grayling, Citigate and The Red Consultancy, has expanded its Huntsworth Health operations through the acquisition of medical communications company ScopeMedical. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11636&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11636&typeid=1&goto=story .ORG, The Public Interest Registry, the manager of the Internets third largest domain, has selected Allison & Partners as its public relations agency of record. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11635&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11635&typeid=1&goto=story Stanton Communications has formalized its digital communications services with the creation of dnaLab. The firms Digital Needs Assessment, Advisory, and Activation services combine its expertise in traditional and online communication with measurement tools. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11634&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11634&typeid=1&goto=story Widmeyer Communications has added two new staff members to its New York office: assistant vice president Daisy Okas in the education, arts and philanthropy practice and senior account manager Jonah Fay-Hurvitz on the health and wellness team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11633&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11633&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group has added Rachelle Spero as a director. Spero joins Brunswick from Cohn & Wolfe, where she was executive vice president of the firm's digital media practice and a member of its global leadership team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11632&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11632&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has entered an exclusive partnership with Ecker & Partner, a leading Austrian public relations agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11631&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11631&typeid=1&goto=story he Food Marketing Institute has promoted Jennifer Hatcher to senior vice president, government and public affairs. She will continue to direct all federal and state public affairs outreach work for the supermarket industry trade association. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11630&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11630&typeid=1&goto=story Parallels, a leader in virtualization and cloud services automation software, has appointed Bite Communications to manage its global communications, media, and analyst relations programs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11629&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11629&typeid=1&goto=story Penrose Financial has appointed Jessica Halls as account manager within its retail financial services team, plus new people in new roles at Bell Pottinger Public Affairs; new business successes for Boom! and The Scott Partnership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11628&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11628&typeid=1&goto=story Dan Zukowski, has joined the Los Angeles office of GolinHarris as senior vice president, plus new people in new roles at Coyne Public Relations and Warschawski. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11627&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11627&typeid=1&goto=story The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the research arm of iconic UK news weekly The Economist, has called in agency support to help boost its international profile. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11626&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11626&typeid=1&goto=story Pharmaceutical giant Merck is reviewing its comms activities across Europe, as the company assesses its PR spending plans after its blockbuster $41 billion merger with Schering Plough last year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11625&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11625&typeid=1&goto=story The Seoul G20 Business Summit has selected Fleishman-Hilllard to handle its global PR activities after a comprehensive pitch that featured several other agencies http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11624&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11624&typeid=1&goto=story Indian software giant Wipro Technologies is seeking global PR support as it expands its business into new markets. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11623&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11623&typeid=1&goto=story Brazil is reviewing its lucrative global tourism PR accounts as the country gears up for a critical phase in its efforts to attract more travelers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11622&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11622&typeid=1&goto=story Cone has launched a new nonprofit marketing discipline, with services designed to help nonprofit organizations strengthen their brands and raise funds. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11616&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11616&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide has introduced APCO Radius, a new offering aimed at anticipating and addressing the challenges of transportation projects at every stage. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11615&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11615&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has been selected to provide public relations support to Morehouse College as it promotes its 10,000- piece collection of Martin Luther King Jr.s personal papers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11614&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11614&typeid=1&goto=story SKDKnickerbocker, a strategic communications firm with offices in Washington, D.C., and New York, has expanded its corporate, advocacy and crisis communications practice with the addition of Alex Slater as managing director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11613&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11613&typeid=1&goto=story Tina Stow, former senior director of privacy and communication for LexisNexis, joins APCO Worldwide as a vice president in the issues management practice at the firms Washington, D.C., office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11612&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11612&typeid=1&goto=story As a result of the integration of the holding companies of Metro Group and Metro Cash & Carry International, which form Germanys largest retailing group, the communications function has been restructured. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11611&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11611&typeid=1&goto=story Royal Caribbean Cruises has named Michele Nadeem vice president, global corporate communications. Nadeem is responsible for leading Royal Caribbean's global communication strategies and community relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11610&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11610&typeid=1&goto=story Public affairs and communications consultancy Kratos Global, led by former Fleishman-Hillard exec Paul Johnson has added three new senior staff members. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11609&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11609&typeid=1&goto=story Flowers Foods, a producer and marketer of packaged bakery foods for retail and foodservice customers, has named Mary Krier vice president of communications and corporate responsibility. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11608&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11608&typeid=1&goto=story After three years on the corporate side, Leon Liu has returned to Ruder Finn as general manager for its Beijing office, which employs around 100 people and services corporate clients such as VW, Michelin and Boeing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11607&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11607&typeid=1&goto=story Direct Impact, the grassroots public affairs, public education and corporate reputation subsidiary of Burson-Marsteller, has added Robert Burley as executive vice president and Jordan Stoick as vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11606&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11606&typeid=1&goto=story Aerospace and defense company GenCorp has named Linda Beech Cutler, formerly GenCorp vice president, corporate communications, to the newly created position of vice president, corporate responsibility. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11605&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11605&typeid=1&goto=story Coca-Cola Beverages has brought in Eastwei to oversee public relations for Sprite in China, plus new business for Text 100, Grayling and Adfactors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11604&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11604&typeid=1&goto=story Hotwire has appointed Richard Janes as a director of its international banking and finance practice, plus new people in new roles at Waggener Edstrom and Metso Group, new business at M: communications and Beattie Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11603&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11603&typeid=1&goto=story DKC has been retained by School of Rock as the organizations agency of record, plus new clients successes for JohnstonWells Public Relations, Laidlaw Group, Risdall Marketing Group and LVM Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11602&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11602&typeid=1&goto=story In a candid video interview at the European Communications Summit in Brussels, new Shell global comms chief Herbert Heitmann says that oil companies must make a better case for deep-sea drilling, despite BPs woes in the Gulf of Mexico. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11601&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11601&typeid=1&goto=story Anne Villemoes talks to the Holmes Report about how to manage reputation when you "kill for a living". Villemoes is director of comms for Danish Crown, one of the world's biggest food processing companies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11600&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11600&typeid=1&goto=story Simon Sproule stunned the PR world when he departed his role as Microsofts global comms chief after just five months. Now Paris-based as the global comms director for the Renault-Nissan Alliance, he sat down with the Holmes Report at the European Communications Summit to talk about why he made the dramatic decision, his agency hiring plans, and why the PR industry is starting to view him as a traitor. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11599&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11599&typeid=1&goto=story Alastair Campbell publicly questioned BPs crisis strategy today, saying that the beleagured oil giant was paying the price for downgrading the importance of comms within the company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11598&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11598&typeid=1&goto=story The UKs Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has completed its first major PR tender since forming in 2008, appointing a slew of firms - including Weber Shandwick and Good Relations - to a four-year roster worth more than £21 million. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11597&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11597&typeid=1&goto=story Australian marketing services holding vehicle Photon Group, which owns a string of PR agencies including the UKs Frank PR and Hotwire, has been forced to restructure its business in a last-ditch bid to stay afloat. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11596&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11596&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has confirmed its selection to handle the global PR business of semi-national Brazilian energy giant Petrobras, following a competitive review that included three other agencies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11595&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11595&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations is set to play a greater role in the marketing mix, according to industry leaders at the Cannes Lions Advertising Festival, despite its relatively low profile at the week-long event. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11594&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11594&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris Chicago has appointed Laura Chalela Hoover as director, nutrition and wellness, a new position within the agencys consumer marketing practice. Hoover will report to Gary Rudnick, Midwest managing director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11593&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11593&typeid=1&goto=story Gordon Johndroe, former spokesman for the National Security Council and former White House deputy press secretary, is joining APCO Worldwide as a vice president in the Washington, D.C., government relations practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11592&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11592&typeid=1&goto=story Global healthcare public relations network the Chandler Chicco Companies has strengthened its social media and financial communications capabilities with the appointments of Ritesh Patel, formerly of HealthEd Digital, and Evan Smith, formerly of FD. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11591&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11591&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum has selected 12 new partners, the largest group ever appointed by the firm, including five who joined the firm last year as a result of the merger between Ketchum and Omnicom-owned European-based sister agency Pleon. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11590&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11590&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has named Mark Lee to lead the firms Singapore operations as senior vice president and general manager. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11589&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11589&typeid=1&goto=story The Partnership for a Drug-Free America has hired social marketing expert Denise Young Farrell as the organization's director of public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11588&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11588&typeid=1&goto=story Rasky Baerlein Strategic Communications has added the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association to its client roster following a competitive review. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11587&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11587&typeid=1&goto=story Public Relations Organisation International, a leading international network of independent public relations firms with global fee income in excess of $335 million, has added U.S.-based healthcare specialist WCG to its partnership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11586&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11586&typeid=1&goto=story Maroon PR has added the Jane Goodall Institute to its roster of clients. Maroon will work with the Institute, an international nonprofit based in Arlington, Va., to increase awareness of the organizations programs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11585&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11585&typeid=1&goto=story James P. Moore, Jr., former U.S. assistant secretary of commerce for trade development, is joining APCO Worldwide as a senior counselor and member of the companys international advisory council. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11584&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11584&typeid=1&goto=story Makovsky + Company has been retained by Itron, a leading provider of intelligent metering, data collection and utility software solutions, with nearly 8,000 utilities worldwide relying on its technology to optimize the delivery and use of energy and water. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11583&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11583&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has launched a new tool designed to measure and track brands exposure and vulnerability to issues-based attacks from activists and other non-governmental organizations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11582&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11582&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Healthworld and CommonHealth, two WPP-owned healthcare marketing networks, have joined to form Ogilvy CommonHealth Worldwide, a new entity with more than 1,100 employees in 64 offices across 33 countries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11581&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11581&typeid=1&goto=story Lippe Taylor Brand Communications has added digital expert David Binkowski, who recently left MS&L after serving as digital strategist for major clients including P&G, Underwriters Laboratories and Citibank. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11580&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11580&typeid=1&goto=story Four Communications has added Justin Pledger to its sports, arts and sponsorship team. Pledger joins from BSkyB, where he was responsible for creating and implementing Sky Arts award-winning sponsorship strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11579&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11579&typeid=1&goto=story Xenophon Strategies has launched a new advertising and advocacy practice that will provide clients with strategic messaging and creative services for online, TV, print, and radio advertising campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11578&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11578&typeid=1&goto=story Evenflo, one of Americas best-known infant and juvenile products brands, has named M Booth & Associates agency of record across its portfolio of products, including the Evenflo, Ameda and Snugli brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11577&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11577&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has hired Stephanie Lundberg as a manager in its issues and crisis group. Lundberg was most recently press secretary for U.S. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11576&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11576&typeid=1&goto=story Qteros, a developer of next-generation technology solutions for the biofuels industry, has appointed Susan Hager as vice president of corporate communications and government affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11575&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11575&typeid=1&goto=story The New England Clean Energy Council has selected Greenough Communications as its new agency of record. The Council is a leading regional clean energy business membership and cluster development non-profit. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11574&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11574&typeid=1&goto=story Jeffrey Sandman, founder and chief executive of Hyde Park Communications and a veteran of the Washington, D.C., public affairs business, died on June 22. Sandman had been involved in a bicycle accident last fall, and remained unconscious until his death. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11573&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11573&typeid=1&goto=story Dorel Juvenile Group, a leader in child safety, car seats, travel systems and other product solutions for parents, has selected 360 Public Relations to handle a comprehensive campaign supporting its portfolio of brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11572&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11572&typeid=1&goto=story Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America has hired industry veteran Paul Kelash as vice president of corporate communications, plus new people in new roles at The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards and Brightpoint. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11571&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11571&typeid=1&goto=story Mike Valdés-Fauli has been promoted to the newly-created post of U.S. managing director at The Jeffrey Group, plus new people in new places at National Public Relations, Halo Group, G.S. Schwartz & Co., Environics Communications and JB Cumberland PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11570&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11570&typeid=1&goto=story Schwartz Communications has been selected by Lancope as its public relations agency of record plus new business successes for Nancy J. Friedman Public Relations, JS2 Communications, Maccabee Group, Zapwater Communications and Trylon SMR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11569&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11569&typeid=1&goto=story Miles Nadal, chairman and CEO of MDC Partners, has revealed that PR and social media agencies top the North American holding groups list of potential acquisition targets. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11568&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11568&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Group global CEO Miles Young sits down with the Holmes Report to discuss Ogilvy PRs global expansion plans and the "artificial divide" that is obstructing the rise of PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11567&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11567&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy PR is aiming to partner more closely with sister WPP agency Clarion as it seeks to boost its flagging presence in the UK. In an exclusive interview with the Holmes Report, Ogilvy Group global CEO Miles Young refused to rule out the prospect that the two agencies would eventually merge. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11566&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11566&typeid=1&goto=story Watch Porter Novelli's Julie Winskie explain why ad agencies often get social media wrong. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11565&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11565&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard appointed Steve Hardwick, former president of WPP-owned advertising agency Grey Group, as general manager of its New York office and president of its Eastern region, which includes offices in Boston and Cleveland. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11564&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11564&typeid=1&goto=story Watch Paul Taaffe explain the PR industry's "disappointing" showing at the 2010 Cannes Lions Advertising Festival. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11563&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11563&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has restructured its leadership in Europe and Asia-Pacific following the resignation of European regional director Kjell Helm. Both of the regions are divided into two smaller collections of markets, each with new leaders that report directly to New York-based CEO Aedhmar Hynes. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11562&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11562&typeid=1&goto=story A campaign to relive a high-school American football game has taken top PR honours at this years Cannes Lions Advertising Festival. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11561&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11561&typeid=1&goto=story Delegates from 33 countries at the 2nd European Summit on Measurement voted overwhelmingly to create the Barcelona Declaration of Measurement Principles, the first global standard of PR measurement. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11558&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11558&typeid=1&goto=story Communications and branding veteran Ernst Primosch has been appointed chief executive officer of Hill & Knowlton Germany. Until recently, Primosch was global corporate vice president of the home care and cosmetics company Henkel Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11557&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11557&typeid=1&goto=story FD Third Person, the Australian operation of international corporate and financial communications consultancy FD, is to be merged with FD Asia, which has offices in Hong Kong, China and Singapore to create a single strategic consultancy with more than 70 staff. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11556&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11556&typeid=1&goto=story PulsePoint Group, the management and digital consulting firm led by industry veterans Bob Feldman and Jeff Hunt, has appointed Don Cogman as chairman. Cogman is the former president and chief operating officer of Burson-Marsteller. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11555&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11555&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwides Paolo Nicoletti has been named managing director of the companys European headquarters office in Brussels. Former managing director Garry Walsh was named managing director of the firms Southeast Asia region based in Singapore. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11554&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11554&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has expanded its relationship with the Dow Chemical Company, adding Dow Microbial Control to the list of Dow business units and brands the agency supports. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11553&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11553&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has formed a new specialty created to help clients manage crises and competitive threats in the era of social media, including everything from preemptive communications to programs that restore corporate reputation after an incident. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11552&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11552&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has been selected to handle the China corporate communications brief for leading self-service wholesaler Metro Cash & Carry. The assignment involves support for Metros change management communications and World Expo association. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11551&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11551&typeid=1&goto=story Beckerman, one of the largest independent public relations firms in New Jersey, has acquired Antenna Group, a full-service, strategic communications firm specializing in serving clean technology companies and corporations concerned about sustainability. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11550&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11550&typeid=1&goto=story Steve Bryant has been appointed managing director of the Seattle office of Publicis Consultants | PR, an agency within the public relations and events network MS&LGroup. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11549&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11549&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Dan Orsborn as managing director of business and client development. In his new role, Orsborn will work closely with Burson-Marstellers senior management to lead new business development. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11548&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11548&typeid=1&goto=story New York public relations firm Kaplow Communications is opening a new West Coast office, Kaplow West, in San Francisco to extend greater support to its current clients located on the West Coast and to build on the agency's consumer technology and digital services roster. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11547&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11547&typeid=1&goto=story CRT/tanaka has been selected by Del Monte Fresh Produce Company for an integrated marketing campaign to promote the role bananas play in healthy eating and losing weight. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11546&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11546&typeid=1&goto=story David Cantor, chief spokesman for New York City public schools and chancellor Joel Klein, will join Widmeyer Communications and lead its New York-based education, arts and philanthropy practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11545&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11545&typeid=1&goto=story Scott Rowe has been named to the newly created position of senior vice president, worldwide communications for the Warner Bros. Television Group, and Tammy Golihew has been promoted to senior vice president, publicity. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11544&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11544&typeid=1&goto=story Energy expert Lew Watts has joined crisis communications specialist Regester Larkin as a non-executive director. Watts, who is based in Washington, D.C., will oversee Regester Larkin's presence in the North American market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11543&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11543&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 Global Public Relations today announced it has been selected as the PR agency of record for Communispace, and will work with the company to build awareness for its approach to helping brands use private online customer communities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11542&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11542&typeid=1&goto=story Mirae Asset Global Investments (USA), a unit of Mirae Asset Global Investments (Hong Kong), has selected Makovsky + Co. to develop and implement an integrated marketing campaign to introduce the firms range of emerging market investment products. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11541&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11541&typeid=1&goto=story Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies with more than 50 offices worldwide, has formed a strategic alliance with 27&More, an international public relations network covering 44 countries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11540&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11540&typeid=1&goto=story Following a three-way competitive pitch, Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide Singapore has been appointed by Global Capital & Development to build and execute a regional public relations strategy for Medini, a flagship development of Iskandar Malaysia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11539&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11539&typeid=1&goto=story Advertising, public relations and digital media agency Martino Flynn, has launched a healthcare practice dedicated to driving brand momentum for marketers of consumer health brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11538&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11538&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate and financial communications specialist M: Communications is advising AXA on the potential £2.8billionn disposal of some of its U.K. life assurance businesses, plus new business for De Facto and new personnel for Burson-Marsteller. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11537&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11537&typeid=1&goto=story The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles has retained The Pollack PR Marketing Group for a sixth year; plus new business successes for Airfoil Public Relationns, Formula, and Trylon SMR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11536&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11536&typeid=1&goto=story Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) has lured Joyce Lorigan, CEO of UK PR agency Golley Slater, to a newly-created position as VP of global communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11535&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11535&typeid=1&goto=story Steve Bowen has departed Edelman's Indonesian operation to launch a new brand marketing practice for Burson-Marsteller Asia-Pacific. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11534&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11534&typeid=1&goto=story High-profile digital comms expert Brian Solis believes that Twitter's new promoted tweets function is set to rapidly shift the way organisations can engage with their consumers online, but has warned that the PR industry is not ready for the changes ahead. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11533&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11533&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has won a major six-figure brief to handle PR for European pipeline giant Nabucco. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11532&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11532&typeid=1&goto=story The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has consolidated its global PR account with Weber Shandwick, expanding the philanthropic organisations relationship with the Interpublic Group-owned agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11531&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11531&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has appointed Michael Slaby as executive vice president and global chair of the firms digital practice. Slaby most recently led communications and technology strategy for venture capital firm TomorrowVentures . http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11527&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11527&typeid=1&goto=story The NASDAQ OMX Group, parent company of exchanges in New York and the Nordic region, has named Frank De Maria senior vice president of global corporate communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11526&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11526&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum has expanded its coverage of the Asia-Pacific region through an exclusive affiliate agreement with Prain, one of the largest integrated public relations firms in South Korea. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11525&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11525&typeid=1&goto=story Atomic Public Relations has been selected as agency of record for Pioneer Electronics (USA) following a competitive review that included some of the top public relations agencies in Los Angeles. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11524&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11524&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has appointed Henrik Hannemann managing director of its Frankfurt office and country manager in Germany. Hannemann begins his new assignment in July and will report to Matt Neale and Jonathan Hughes. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11523&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11523&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed John Mercurio as a director in its media practice. Mercurio is known as an expert on national politics, campaigns and Capitol Hill and brings nearly 20 years of experience to his new position. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11522&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11522&typeid=1&goto=story The Irvine Company, a diversified private real estate company, has named Smooch Repovich Reynolds as senior vice president of corporate communications. For the past 23 years, Reynolds has served as CEO of The Repovich-Reynolds Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11521&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11521&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has promoted Micho Spring and Paul Jensen to expanded roles in the firm's corporate practice. Spring has been appointed global chair and Jensen will take over as North American chair, effective immediately. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11519&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11519&typeid=1&goto=story Harvard PR, the technology public relations subsidiary of the Bell Pottinger Group, has won the U.K. media and analyst relations account for graphics company NVIDIA. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11518&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11518&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard has appointed Bill Walker as general manager of the firms Toronto office and John Capobianco as senior vice president and partner and national practice lead for public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11517&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11517&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has appointed Tyler Pennock as senior vice president, digital media practice and a member of the global digital leadership team. Pennock will co-lead Cohn & Wolfes New York digital team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11516&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11516&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations software company Vocus has acquired HARO (Help A Reporter Out), a free service that links nearly 30,000 reporters and bloggers with more than 100,000 small businesses and public relations professionals. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11515&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11515&typeid=1&goto=story Communications MECA, an independent public relations firm with offices in Montreal and Toronto is joining forces with Toronto-based Palette Public Relations to create energi PR, a 20-person firm with fees of around $4 million. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11514&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11514&typeid=1&goto=story Pirate Brands, manufacturer of all-natural, healthy snacks including the iconic Pirates Booty, has named M Booth & Associates agency of record to help build brand awareness . http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11513&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11513&typeid=1&goto=story Rose Stuckey Kirk has been named vice president of public relations for corporate reputation at Verizon Communications. She will lead communications focused on Verizon's corporate responsibility, philanthropy and sustainability initiatives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11512&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11512&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has been tapped by Century Housing Corporation, a private non-profit organization dedicated to working with developers to create quality, affordable rental and for-sale properties for those most in need throughout Southern California. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11511&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11511&typeid=1&goto=story LexisNexis, which provides information management solutions, and Augure, a provider of ERM (enterprise reputation management) solutions, have joined to introduce a new web-based application for public relations professionals. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11510&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11510&typeid=1&goto=story Envision Solar International, a leading solar planner, architect and inventor, has appointed Allison & Partners to lead its national public relations campaign. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11509&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11509&typeid=1&goto=story Thomson Reuters has launched a web disclosure solution for regulatory news announcements. Web Disclosure enables companies to meet regulatory disclosure requirements through a Web-based solution. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11508&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11508&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has appointed Phillip Raskin as the new managing consultant of its Singapore office, plus new people in new positions at Philips, Skoda India, and Mitsubishi Motors Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11507&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11507&typeid=1&goto=story Ola Rembe has been named the new head of corporate public & media relations for Ericsson, plus new people in new roles at Edelman, new business successes for Fishburn Hedges, Havas Sports, and College Hill. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11506&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11506&typeid=1&goto=story JSH&A Public Relations has promoted Deanna Killackey and Cheryl Georgas to vice presidents, plus new people in new roles at Weber Shandwick, Catapult PR-IR, and Stratacomm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11505&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11505&typeid=1&goto=story Cost Plus World Market, a specialty retailer, has retained national boutique agency Formula; plus new business successes for CJones & Associates, Tier One Partners, Morris + King, Pollack PR Marketing Group, Zapwater, and JS2 Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11504&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11504&typeid=1&goto=story UK telecoms player Colt Group has called a comprehensive review of its European PR requirements, putting incumbent Grayling on alert. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11503&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11503&typeid=1&goto=story Nokia has ended its lengthy relationship with Text 100 in India, and has instead chosen to divide the business between Fleishman-Hillard and Six Degrees. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11502&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11502&typeid=1&goto=story McDonald's director of social media Rick Wion (@rdublife) tells the Holmes Report why PR people must focus on transparency and trust if they are to lead social media, particularly if they are to respond effectively to online criticism. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11501&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11501&typeid=1&goto=story The European Central Bank (ECB) is searching for agencies to deploy a major comms push as the Eurozone faces its worst crisis since it launched a decade ago. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11500&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11500&typeid=1&goto=story One of Asias largest paper producers is seeking a PR agency to help it rebuild its relationships with international NGOs, just weeks after having its green certification suspended. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11499&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11499&typeid=1&goto=story Social media experts have hit back at claims that listening and responding to online consumer comment is nothing short of outright spying. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11498&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11498&typeid=1&goto=story Financial Times columnist Stefan Stern is joining Edelman as director of strategy. Stern will provide senior counsel to organizations across all industry sectors on strategic reputation management at the intersection of business, media and society. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11495&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11495&typeid=1&goto=story Veteran public affairs executive Steve Schmidt, most recently a partner at Mercury Public Affairs, is joining Edelman as vice chairman, public affairs. Schmidt is providing counsel on a limited basis effective immediately, and will join in full in December. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11494&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11494&typeid=1&goto=story Former PR Week editor Julia Hood has been named to the newly created position of president of the Arthur W. Page Society. During her career at PR Week, Hood worked as a reporter, editor-in-chief and most recently as publishing director of PRWeek and sister publication DMNews. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11493&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11493&typeid=1&goto=story David Reuter, director of corporate communications at Nissan Americas, has been named senior director, corporate communications, reporting to Carlos Tavares, chairman of the companys management committee for the Americas. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11492&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11492&typeid=1&goto=story Timothy Cost, a 30-year corporate-affairs and investor-relations veteran with executive experience at several of the worlds top health-care companies, has been named global chair, healthcare, and executive vice president at APCO Worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11491&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11491&typeid=1&goto=story Stephen Caldeira, a public relations executive who most recently served as executive vice president of global communications and chief public affairs officer for Dunkin' Brands, has been named president and CEO of the International Franchise Association. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11490&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11490&typeid=1&goto=story Healthcare public relations firm WCGthe former WeissCommhas hired four senior professionals as it continues to expand its creative and interactive needs of clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11489&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11489&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate and financial communications consultancy CNC (Communications & Network Consulting) has continued its international expansion, signing a cooperation agreement with Gaspar & Associados Comunicação Empresarial from Sao Paolo, Brazil. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11488&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11488&typeid=1&goto=story Kari Stoever has joined MWW Group to lead a newly created corporate affairs practice, directing the firms global corporate social responsibility division and establishing a new practice to lead multiplatform engagement initiatives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11487&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11487&typeid=1&goto=story Telecommunications giant BT has handed its Indian public relations business to heavyweight player Genesis Burson-Marsteller following a final round shootout with local upstart Six Degrees. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11486&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11486&typeid=1&goto=story Jennifer Scott, managing director of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwides insights and research function, has been promoted to global managing director of Ogilvy PRs Strategy + Planning Group, succeeding Steve Dahllof. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11485&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11485&typeid=1&goto=story San Francisco agency Rainemakers has merged with fledgling global network BondPR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11484&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11484&typeid=1&goto=story French/West/Vaughan has opened a Dallas, Tex., office and hired local marketing executive Julie Langford as general manager. The new office is the agencys fourth, building on its locations in New York City, Tampa, Fla., and its headquarters in Raleigh, NC. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11483&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11483&typeid=1&goto=story Trey Ditto has joined KCSA Strategic Communications as a managing director in its public relations division. Ditto comes to the firm with nearly a decade of experience in corporate, entertainment, non-profit, financial, consumer, professional service, crisis management and politics. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11482&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11482&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate communication consultancy Rowland has made four senior executive appointments as part of its continued growth and expansion. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11481&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11481&typeid=1&goto=story Kia Canada, a subsidiary of Kia Motors, has appointed Jack Sulymka as its new public relations manager, plus new people in new roles at Disneyland Resort and Travelport. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11480&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11480&typeid=1&goto=story J. Michael Harty has joined Kearns & West as senior director and senior mediator, plus new people in new roles at MWW Group, Linhart Public Relations and Lane PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11479&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11479&typeid=1&goto=story Apparel manufacturer Garan, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has retained CooperKatz & Company, plus new business successes for Tunheim Partners, Fineman PR and Krupp Kommunications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11478&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11478&typeid=1&goto=story A leading global crisis comms specialist has said that the PR industry needs to grow up if it wishes to be taken seriously amid the current spate of corporate crises. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11477&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11477&typeid=1&goto=story Telecoms giant BT is to choose between either heavyweight player Genesis Burson-Marsteller or upstart firm Six Degrees after ending its relationship with incumbent PR agency IPAN H&K in India. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11476&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11476&typeid=1&goto=story Global public relations giant Weber Shandwick Worldwide and French newcomer Agence Elan were among the big winners at the sixth annual EMEA region SABRE Awards dinner, held last week at the Round House in Camden. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11475&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11475&typeid=1&goto=story Longtime McDonald's communications executive John Blyth has joined Fleishman-Hillard as a senior vice president and partner. Blyth joined McDonald's in 1981 and served since 2005 as the company's corporate vice president of corporate communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11474&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11474&typeid=1&goto=story rbb Public Relations has acquired Haber & Quinn Public Relations, a Fort Lauderdale firm specializing in the marine and healthcare industries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11473&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11473&typeid=1&goto=story Lisa Davis has joined biotechnology company MedImmune as vice president, corporate affairs, overseeing public relations, internal communications, government affairs, advocacy, community relations, and corporate responsibility. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11472&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11472&typeid=1&goto=story At a time of increasing focus on energy policy and global growth in alternative energy, Dix & Eaton has launched a new energy practice. The practice will help organizations in the energy and alternative energy markets. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11471&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11471&typeid=1&goto=story Publicis Healthcare Communications Group Europe has named Jenny Plant general manager of Publicis Life Brands Resolute, formed last month after the acquisition of U.K. healthcare public relations firm Resolute. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11470&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11470&typeid=1&goto=story The U.S. Meat Export Federation has selected Weber Shandwick as its public relations consultancy to provide strategic communications support to enhance the organisations image and promote its market activities in Korea. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11469&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11469&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has been hired by the National Association of Corporate Directors, a 10,000- member organization focused on advancing exemplary board leadership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11468&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11468&typeid=1&goto=story GCI Health has been selected by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the largest specialty organization in the world exclusively representing dermatologic surgeons, to lead its communications efforts. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11467&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11467&typeid=1&goto=story Following a competitive pitch process, Boehringer Ingelheim has appointed OgilvyHealthPR as its global communications agency for Pradaxa, one of a new generation of oral anticoagulants. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11466&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11466&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has hired Paul Hefner as a senior vice president of its public affairs practice group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11465&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11465&typeid=1&goto=story Ruder Finn has named Ng Chip Keng as managing director of its Hong Kong and Singapore operations. Ng will be based in Singapore and reports to Jean-Michel Dumont, chairman of Ruder Finn Asia Pacific. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11464&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11464&typeid=1&goto=story Inforpress has opened an office in Brussels to be closer to European Union organizations, plus new accounts at Edelman, Bottle PR and Citigate Dewe Rogerson, and new people in new roles at OgilvyHealthPR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11463&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11463&typeid=1&goto=story Julie Hail Flory has been promoted to director of public relations at the University of Notre Dame; plus new people in new roles at DynCorp, Portfolio Recovery Associates, General Growth Properties and Greenguard Environmental Institute. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11462&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11462&typeid=1&goto=story Gibbs & Soell has promoted Audra Hession to managing director of its New York office, plus new people in new roles at Landis Communications, Jackson Spalding and Robin Leedy & Associates. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11461&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11461&typeid=1&goto=story Sherpa Pet Group has retained Fetching Communications as its agency of record, plus new business successes for Cornerstone PR, JohnstonWells, LVM Group, Maroon PR, and Amy Levy Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11460&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11460&typeid=1&goto=story New Hill & Knowlton worldwide head of healthcare Daniel McIntyre has said that the healthcare industry faces a "very difficult mindset change" as he begins his new role at the agency's New York office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11459&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11459&typeid=1&goto=story British mobile computing company Psion has selected Text 100 to manage its worldwide external relations, displacing incumbent agency Fishburn Hedges. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11458&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11458&typeid=1&goto=story Diageo has concluded its Asia-Pacific corporate PR review by dividing the business between Burson-Marsteller, Impact Asia and incumbent firm Grayling. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11457&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11457&typeid=1&goto=story Rachel Friend is to depart her role as head of consumer PR at Sainsbury's to become Weber Shandwick UK's consumer MD. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11456&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11456&typeid=1&goto=story Novartis is aiming to appoint a handful of agencies to a new global roster, as part of a major rethink of the Swiss' pharma giant's social media strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11455&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11455&typeid=1&goto=story Pharma major Pfizer is searching for a global PR agency to handle a multi-million dollar brief focusing on emerging markets. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11454&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11454&typeid=1&goto=story Ernst & Young communications director Ken Kerrigan is departing the company after a decade to take on a senior role at Weber Shandwick New York. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11449&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11449&typeid=1&goto=story Xerox Corporation's board of directors has named Christa Carone as vice president of the corporation. Carone is vice president, marketing and communications for Xerox Corporation, serving as the company's chief marketing officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11448&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11448&typeid=1&goto=story Kratos Global Strategies, the new public affairs and strategic communications operation headed by former Fleishman-Hillard executive Paul Johnson, has created a global business advisory group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11447&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11447&typeid=1&goto=story Steve Knapp has been named director of brand activation and senior partner for Carmichael Lynch. In this role, Knapp will lead the development and implementation of non-traditional media and marketing solutions at the agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11446&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11446&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard has appointed Annalise Coady, currently co-chair of Fleishman-Hillards global technology practice, as managing director for Fleishman-Hillard Middle East. She will be responsible for growing the companys regional business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11445&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11445&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate and financial public relations firm Walek & Associates has established a book projects and promotions division. The new division will work with publishers and authors to strategically position financial and investment titles. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11444&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11444&typeid=1&goto=story Fishburn Hedges has appointed Dermot Finch, chief executive of the Centre for Cities, as its new head of public affairs. He will move to Fishburn Hedges in August. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11443&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11443&typeid=1&goto=story Dix & Eaton has promoted Amy McGahan and David Hertz, two key members of its media relations group, to senior vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11442&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11442&typeid=1&goto=story Four Communications has been appointed by The Chartered Institute of Marketing, a leading membership body for marketing and sales professionals, to provide public relations services over the next two years. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11441&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11441&typeid=1&goto=story Tencent Holdings has appointed Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide/Beijing to provide public relations support to QQ.com, plus new people in new roles at Virgin Blue, China Advanced Construction Materials; new business for Hill & Knowlton. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11440&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11440&typeid=1&goto=story Inforpress has strengthened its institutional relations and lobbying division, Agenda Public Affairs, plus a new senior communications executive at Ratos and new business at College Hill. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11439&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11439&typeid=1&goto=story CooperKatz & Company has added four new companies to its client roster, plus new business success for Allison & Partners, Zapwater, Morris + King, Wagner/Junker Agency and Burditch Marketing Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11438&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11438&typeid=1&goto=story MS&LGroup has expanded its healthcare practice in North America, which suffered a series of departures earlier this year, with six key hires, including new senior vice presidents Ellena Friedman, Christine Abbott and Trine Hindklev. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11437&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11437&typeid=1&goto=story Schwartz Communications has partnered with Internet marketing software company HubSpot in an attempt to integrate inbound marketing seamlessly with public relations and more accurately track business results. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11436&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11436&typeid=1&goto=story Gibbs & Soell has formed a green tech and sustainability public relations practice dedicated to providing communications counsel and strategies to businesses with green technologies and sustainable business principles and services. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11435&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11435&typeid=1&goto=story Kethcum has created a corporate governance advisory board that will draw on the expertise of senior individuals from the fields of securities law, academia, and shareholder and investor relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11434&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11434&typeid=1&goto=story Herbert Heitmann will begin his new role as Shell's head of global communications on 1 June, after a 12-year career with technology giant SAP. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11432&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11432&typeid=1&goto=story Publicis Groupe has acquired London-based healthcare firm Resolute Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11431&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11431&typeid=1&goto=story Yahoo has selected agencies from holding group Havas Worldwide to handle a new summer football programme that begins this week. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11430&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11430&typeid=1&goto=story The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has shortlisted three agencies to pitch for its extensive global PR activity. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11429&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11429&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum, Weber Shandwick, healthcare specialist WCG (formerly WeissComm) and Twin Cities-based Padilla Speer Beardsley were among the big agency winners at last weeks North American SABRE Awards dinner. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11428&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11428&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, the global public relations and healthcare communications group that owns Citigate Dewe Rogerson, Grayling and The Red Consultancy among others, has reported significantly higher net new business activity in the first quarter of 2010. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11427&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11427&typeid=1&goto=story The Holmes Group has named Arun Sudhaman as partner and managing editor. Sudhaman, most recently associate editor at PR Week in London, will be responsible for expanding The Holmes Reports coverage and analysis of the global public relations industry. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11426&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11426&typeid=1&goto=story Microsoft has selected Weber Shandwick as its single agency of record in Asia-Pacific, dealing a blow to its two other retained firms, Edelman and Waggener-Edstrom. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11425&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11425&typeid=1&goto=story American International Group has named Mark Herr as vice president, corporate media relations. He will oversee all aspects of AIG's corporate media relations, including developing and implementing AIG's media relations strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11424&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11424&typeid=1&goto=story The International Sleep Products Associations Better Sleep Council has chosen CJP Communications as its agency-of-record. The Council selected CJP after a competitive review of nine agencies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11423&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11423&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has hired Sheila Rasu to drive expanded consumer and healthcare capabilities in Singapore and Southeast Asia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11422&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11422&typeid=1&goto=story Global energy company USEC (the U.S. Enrichment Corporation) has appointed Paul Jacobson as vice president, corporate communications. Jacobson will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of USEC's internal and external communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11421&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11421&typeid=1&goto=story The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, a trade association representing 15 international motor vehicle manufacturers, has named Annemarie Pender as its new director of communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11420&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11420&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has promoted Sunayna Malik to the role of managing director for India. Sunayna will continue to serve as managing consultant for Text 100 in Delhi and will take on additional responsibility for leading and managing Text 100s India operations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11419&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11419&typeid=1&goto=story After a competitive review, Scripps Networks Interactive has selected Rogers & Cowan as agency of record for Cooking Channel, which launches on May 31. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11418&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11418&typeid=1&goto=story The U.S. Fund for UNICEF has appointed Veronica Pollard as its new senior vice president of marketing and communications. In her new role, Pollard leads a team of more than 20 people and is charged with directing branding, communications, and marketing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11417&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11417&typeid=1&goto=story Southern California public affairs firms Englander, Knabe & Allen, headquartered in Los Angeles, and San Diego-based Southwest Strategies have formed a strategic alliance designed to complement their existing public affairs businesses. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11416&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11416&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has formed a strategic alliance with Rowland, one of the leading corporate communications and business advisory groups in Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11415&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11415&typeid=1&goto=story Padilla Speer Beardsley has added Dean Huff as senior vice president in its agriculture and environmental sciences practice. Huff brings nearly 20 years of experience in strategic communications planning to the firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11414&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11414&typeid=1&goto=story Trevelino/Keller Communications Group has launched an organic and sustainable foods and practices specialty within the firms GreenWorks practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11413&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11413&typeid=1&goto=story Pelham Bell Pottinger has been advising Qatar Holding on its £1.5 billion acquisition of Harrods, leading media relations activities for the deal. The announcement on May 8 marked the first time Qatar Holding has bought 100 percent of a European company directly. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11412&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11412&typeid=1&goto=story Essence Communications, a leading Malaysian communications firm, has entered into an exclusive alliance with Burson-Marsteller. Essence will be the first point-of-contact for Bursons clients in Malaysia, and the firms will share expertise and staff for relevant client engagements. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11411&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11411&typeid=1&goto=story Peppercom has been appointed agency of record for Tasty Bite, a leader in all-natural Indian food. Tasty Bite chose Peppercom over six competing firms. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11410&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11410&typeid=1&goto=story Spanish public relations firm PowerAxle has become a partner in IPREX, the worldwide network of independent public relations and communication firms, and will work alongside existing IPREX partner Arenalia of Barcelona. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11409&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11409&typeid=1&goto=story Piedmont Healthcare has named Porter Novelli as its public relations agency of record; plus new business success for Lou Hammond & Associates, Atomic PR, Linhart Public Relations, French/West/Vaughan, Blaze, Gable PR, Nancy J. Friedman Public Relations, Phelps Group, and Thomas PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11408&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11408&typeid=1&goto=story Less than a month after acquiring a majority stake in New York corporate and financial communications specialist Sloane& Company, MDC Partners has acquired a majority interest in Allison & Partners. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11404&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11404&typeid=1&goto=story Financial services giant Nomura Holding America has named Heather Wingate as managing director of public affairs. She will lead the company's government affairs efforts in the United States. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11403&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11403&typeid=1&goto=story Middleberg Communications has formed a strategic partnership with Marty Appel, a 40-year veteran of sports public relations and the founder and CEO of Marty Appel Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11402&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11402&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has promoted Chris Perry to president, digital communications. In his new position, Perry will lead the firms efforts to conceptualize and deliver strategic inline communications programs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11401&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11401&typeid=1&goto=story European technology public relations firm Hotwire, acquired two years ago by Australian holding company Photon Group, is expanding beyond the EMEA region by joining forces with Kinetics, a sister agency in Sydney, Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11400&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11400&typeid=1&goto=story FD, the strategic communications firm owned by FTI Consulting, has appointed John Watts as managing director and national head of research in the firms strategy consulting practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11399&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11399&typeid=1&goto=story Tropicana Las Vegas has retained Ruder Finn Public Relations to represent the hotel and casino as their agency of record. Ruder Finn will work with Tropicana Las Vegas marketing team to rebrand the casino resort. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11398&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11398&typeid=1&goto=story Chandler Chicco Companies has appointed Isabelle Genin to CCC Paris, the healthcare firms French business unit. Genin joins CCC Paris from Saatchi&Saatchi Healthcare Paris, where she was general manager. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11397&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11397&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has been appointed by the Portuguese Cork Association to manage Intercork, a major international communications program to promote the advantages of cork stoppers and cork building and decoration materials. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11396&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11396&typeid=1&goto=story Alcoa has named Paula Davis President of the Alcoa Foundation, one of the largest corporate foundations in the U.S., investing over $515 million since 1952. She succeeds Meg McDonald, who resigned earlier this year to return to her native Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11395&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11395&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide has named Stephanie Lvovich executive director for the firm's EMEA region, Brad Staples. Lvovich will focus on business development for the region and will also continue to lead APCO's global food and consumer products practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11394&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11394&typeid=1&goto=story A new life sciences public relations firm, Canale Communications has been launched by Carin Canale-Theakston, former president of Porter Novelli Life Sciences and before that a partner in Atkins & Associates. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11393&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11393&typeid=1&goto=story Entertainment media company Current Media has appointed Matthew Frankel to the newly created position of senior vice president of corporate communications. Frankel will serve as the companys chief spokesperson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11392&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11392&typeid=1&goto=story Proof Integrated Communications, the advertising, digital and integrated communications subsidiary of Burson-Marsteller, has appointed Dallas Lawrence as managing director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11391&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11391&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has been hired by Grid Net, Neato Robotics and Wellcore to lead brand-building campaigns for each of their pioneering technologies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11390&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11390&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has reorganized its life sciences practice to focus on established companies in pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices and diagnostics and health information technology. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11389&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11389&typeid=1&goto=story The Singapore office of Hong Kong-based Strategic Public Relations Group has been selected to represent several new clients, plus new business for Weber Shandwick and Ogilvy PR and a new digital appointment at Weber Shandwick. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11388&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11388&typeid=1&goto=story Beattie Communications has launched an educational marketing and student recruitment agency, 11tenGroup; plus new people in new roles at Norske Skog, Setra and the Office for Metropolitan Architecture, and new business for Pelham Bell Pottinger. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11387&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11387&typeid=1&goto=story PondelWilkinson has named Robert Jaffe, a senior vice president who joined the firm in 1999, as principal; plus new people in new roles at Southwest Strategies and JohnstonWells Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11386&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11386&typeid=1&goto=story Sani Sport, a leader in sports equipment sanitation machines, has retained Formula as its agency of record, plus new business successes for Tunheim Partners, Schwartz Media Strategies and Webb PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11385&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11385&typeid=1&goto=story Its easy to look at Weber Shandwick andseeing the worlds largest public relations agency with more than 80 offices in 40 countries around the worldforget that the firm is still pretty new at this global stuff. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11384&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11384&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations and public affairs revenues at WPP Groupparent to Burson-Marsteller, Cohn & Wolfe, Hill & Knowlton and Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwidegrew by 0.7 percent in the first quarter of 2010, the first quarter of growth in a year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11379&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11379&typeid=1&goto=story Julie Batliner has been named managing director of Carmichael Lynch Spong, assuming day-to-day operational responsibility for the public relations firms clients and staff in New York, Boston, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco and its Minneapolis headquarters. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11378&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11378&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L Group, formed last year by the merger of Publicis Groupes public relations and events operations, has launched its digital PR practice in Europe, bringing together the networks existing digitally-focused offerings under the leadership of Stanislas Magniant. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11377&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11377&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named Rick Murray president of Edelman Chicago, the firms co-headquarters office and home to more than 500 employees. Murray is a nine-year Edelman veteran who has held a variety of leadership positions. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11376&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11376&typeid=1&goto=story Lewis PR has launched Lewis Live, a platform for publishing social media news releases and creating entire custom newsrooms. With Lewis Live, the firms clients can create and publish social media releases for free. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11375&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11375&typeid=1&goto=story Greg Gilligan, former general manager of corporate affairs and senior director of operations for McDonalds China, has been appointed managing director of APCO Worldwides Beijing office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11374&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11374&typeid=1&goto=story Nissan North America has appointed David Reuter as director, corporate communications, succeeding Fred Standish who retired as of April 1 after 18 years with the company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11373&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11373&typeid=1&goto=story Following the recent appointments of Ward White as chief strategy officer and Jay Andrew as account director, Vollmer Public Relations has named Denisha Stevens as a partner. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11372&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11372&typeid=1&goto=story Ingersoll-Rand has appointed Patricia Blackburn as vice president, communications and public affairs. Blackburn will lead the strategy for all internal and external communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11371&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11371&typeid=1&goto=story Sands Anderson, a regional law firm, has tapped CRT/tanaka for social media marketing, training and support. The law firm is exploring how attorneys can best use popular online social networking channels, such as blogs and Twitter. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11370&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11370&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Cheryl Heinonen as managing director in the corporate and financial communications practice. Burson-Marsteller has appointed Cheryl Heinonen as managing director in the corporate and financial communications practice. Heinonen has expertise in issues management, international public affairs, corporate social responsibility, branding and organizational development and brings more than 20 years of experience to her new position. She will be based in San Francisco and report to newly-appointed U.S. corporate practice chair Jason Schechter. The addition of Heinonen marks the third significant hire in the Firm's San Francisco office over the last two months. Recently, Burson added two senior communications aides to San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, communications director Nathan Ballard and new media adviser Brian Purchia. Heinonen spent the majority of her career at Visa, where she worked from 1997 to 2008 as a senior communications executive Heinonen spent the majority of her career at Visa, where she worked from 1997 to 2008 as a senior communications executive http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11369&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11369&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations, public affairs and marketing firm Carolyn Grisko & Associates has joined IPREX, an international corporation of independent public relations and communication firms. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11368&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11368&typeid=1&goto=story Josie Martin has joined Ketchum as senior vice president in the public affairs practice and director of business development in the Washington, D.C., office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11367&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11367&typeid=1&goto=story Stacy Mackler has been appointed executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Euro RSCG Worldwide PR. Mackler will oversee new business and organic growth and will oversee two critical agency initiatives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11366&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11366&typeid=1&goto=story Brand Resources Group has appointed Laurie Mobley as vice president, responsible for further deepening the agencys core focus around safety, health and wellness. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11365&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11365&typeid=1&goto=story MEMAC Ogilvy, the Middle Eastern operation of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, has named Saada Hammad as regional director of public relations for the Middle East and North Africa. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11364&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11364&typeid=1&goto=story Qorvis Communications has been selected by OReilly Media and UBM TechWeb as the exclusive public relations partner for the upcoming Gov 2.0 Expo. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11363&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11363&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has appointed Suzanne O'Leary Lopez to executive vice president and group director of the agency's Chicago corporate practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11362&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11362&typeid=1&goto=story Major League Baseball commissioner Bud Selig has appointed Charles Steinberg as his senior advisor for public affairs, plus new people in new roles at Qteros and CODA Automotive. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11361&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11361&typeid=1&goto=story rbb Public Relations has been named agency of record for Baltus Collection and the 2010 AIA National Convention, plus new business for Makovsky, Stanton, VPE, Robin Leedy & Associates, Rubenstein PR and LVM Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11360&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11360&typeid=1&goto=story There was good news for the public relations sector this week, as three major holding companiesOmnicom, Havas and Publicis Groupereported strong first quarter earnings that suggested a return to growth. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11359&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11359&typeid=1&goto=story Björn Edlund, until recently executive vice president and head of group communications at Royal Dutch Shell, is to become a senior adviser to Burson-Marsteller. Edlund retired from Royal Dutch Shell earlier this year after five years in charge of internal and external reputation management. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11358&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11358&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Jason Schechter as the chair of its U.S. corporate practice. Schechter will succeed Andy Goldberg, who will leave the post to lead AGG International, a soon-to-be-re-launched New York-based international boutique. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11357&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11357&typeid=1&goto=story Maria Grimberg and Peter Steere that will take over as chief executives of JKL Group, the Stockholm-based unit of the global MS&LGroup. Founders Anders Kempe and Anders Lindberg will continue to be active in the company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11356&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11356&typeid=1&goto=story Kratos Global Strategies, the strategic communications, public affairs and business consulting firm that earlier this year hired Fleishman-Hillard veterab Paul Johnson as chief executive, has added 10 new members to its senior leadership team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11355&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11355&typeid=1&goto=story Verizon has named Torod Neptune as vice president of communications, products and services. He will lead strategy and implementation for Verizon's telecom and business product lines, and will be a key part of the communications leadership. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11354&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11354&typeid=1&goto=story Ward White, a veteran of senior agency and client public relations role, has joined Vollmer Public Relations as chief strategy officer, Helen Vollmer. In addition, Jay Andrew has joined Vollmer as account director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11353&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11353&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has appointed Jeroen van Seeters as chief executive of Hill & Knowlton International Belgium and of the Benelux region. Van Seeters was most recently CEO of Hill & Knowltons operations in the Netherlands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11352&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11352&typeid=1&goto=story Middleberg Communications has added four new consumer clients to its consumer division roster, including Fantourage, Paul Sorvino Pasta Sauce, Kent International and Bill and Giuliana Rancic. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11351&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11351&typeid=1&goto=story Public Relations Organisation International, a network of independent public relations firms with global fee income in excess of $335 million has selected Toronto-based Brown & Cohen Communications & Public Affairs as its third Canadian partner. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11350&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11350&typeid=1&goto=story International financial communications specialist M: Communications, has appointed Tom Blackwell to spearhead the growth of the firms business in Russia. He will be based in Moscow. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11349&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11349&typeid=1&goto=story The Morris + King Company, a New York public relations firm known for its work with consumer brands, has acquired Workhouse Publicity, a boutique agency specializing in fashion, publishing, luxury, consumer and lifestyle accounts. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11348&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11348&typeid=1&goto=story Mischa Dunton, former senior public relations manager at LeapFrog Enterprises, is joining APCO Worldwide as a vice president. Dunton has more than 14 years of experience in corporate and crisis communication, brand positioning and product public relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11347&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11347&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has appointed TT Yang as managing director for China. Currently serving as managing consultant at Text 100 Shanghai, Yang will take over management of Text 100s Beijing and Shanghai offices as part of a new one China leadership strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11346&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11346&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has recruited Elke Pascoe as head of a new and broader lifestyle practice in Australia, including responsibility for the agencys existing leading brand relationships in the consumer space. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11345&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11345&typeid=1&goto=story Four Communications has been appointed by Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the worlds largest hotel groups with more than 7,000 properites, to serve as its public relations representative in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11344&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11344&typeid=1&goto=story High Lantern Group, a firm specializing in strategy development, thought leadership, reputation management, and framing policy and business issues, has been launched by managing partner Daniel Casse, a veteran of four presidential campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11343&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11343&typeid=1&goto=story BMW Group Australia has appointed Piers Scott as public relations and corporate communications manager, plus new people in new roles at Text 100, Weber Shandwick and Ogilvy PR, and a new identity for Australian firm Wilkinson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11342&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11342&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has been appointed by Lloyds International Private Banking, plus a new role for Woods at MS&L London and a new travel account for Lewis PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11341&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11341&typeid=1&goto=story Coyne Public Relations has added Melissa McAllister Wieler to the agencys food and beverage practice as vice president, plus new people in new roles at Qorvis, Capstrat, Flowers Communications Group, Hutchens PR, and David All Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11340&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11340&typeid=1&goto=story Litzky Public Relations has been named agency of record for Playmobil USA, plus new business successes for French/West/Vaughan, Rogers & Cowan, and Olson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11339&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11339&typeid=1&goto=story Kekst and Company came in number one in both volume and value of mergers and acquisitions activity in North America during the first quarter of 2010, according to mergermarket, which produces the M&A advisory rankings. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11337&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11337&typeid=1&goto=story FD came in number one in both volume and value of mergers and acquisitions activity in Europe during the first quarter of 2010, beating out perennial rival Brunswick as activity in the region remained slow. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11336&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11336&typeid=1&goto=story FD came in number one in both volume and value of mergers and acquisitions activity in the Asia-Pacific region during the first quarter of 2010, according to mergermarket, which produces the M&A advisory rankings. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11335&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11335&typeid=1&goto=story Engine, the U.K.-based communications group that owns public relations and public affairs firm Mandate, has acquired Penrose Financial, one of the leading public relations consultancies specialising in financial services and capital markets communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11333&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11333&typeid=1&goto=story Connie Weaver is joining financial services giant TIAA-CREF as executive vice president, chief marketing and communications officer. She will oversee marketing, brand management, advertising, market research, corporate communications, and digital strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11332&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11332&typeid=1&goto=story Tim Scerba, who left last year for a senior role in the corporate practice at GolinHarris, has rejoined Edelman as managing director of its Mexican operations. Scerba served as CEO of Edelman Mexico from 2004 to 2008. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11331&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11331&typeid=1&goto=story The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has appointed Elizabeth Estroff to the new position of senior vice president of communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11330&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11330&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Ainsley Perrien deputy chair of the firm's U.S. media practice. She has significant expertise in print and new media, risk management, brand development, crisis communications and litigation support. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11329&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11329&typeid=1&goto=story The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation has appointed Andrew Douglas to lead its public affairs efforts in Europe. Douglas will play a key role in representing DTCCs public policy positions to officials of the European Union and its member states. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11328&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11328&typeid=1&goto=story The Austrian Environment Ministry and the Austrian Energy Agency have selected Grayling to implement the klima:aktiv mobil awareness education program, under the slogan "Improving climate step by step." http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11327&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11327&typeid=1&goto=story Proof Integrated Communications, the advertising, digital and integrated communications subsidiary of Burson-Marsteller, has appointed Brian Purchia and Michael Beno as directors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11326&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11326&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide has hired John Dudzinsky as a vice president. Dudzinsky joins APCO with more than 14 years of experience in financial communication and media relations in New York and London. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11325&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11325&typeid=1&goto=story Iberian communication consultancy Llorente & Cuenca hired Joan Navarro as vice-president and senior director of public affairs in Spain and María Cura as Managing director of the Barcelona office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11324&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11324&typeid=1&goto=story The Boao Forum for Asia has appointed Ogilvy PRs Beijing office as its official public relations partner, plus new people in new roles at Weber Shandwick and Artifical Life and a new strategic partnership for Ogilvy in Beijing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11323&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11323&typeid=1&goto=story Boeing has appointed Antoine Balas as director of corporate communications for France, plus new people in new roles at JKL and Fast Track; new business for Bite, Lewis PR, Pelham Bell Pottinger and College Hill. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11322&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11322&typeid=1&goto=story SS+K has been retained by Honest Teas to develop social engagement campaigns, plus new business successes for Arketi Group, Outreach Strategies, Strategic Communications Group, Lane PR, Laidlaw Group, Maroon PR, and JS2 Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11321&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11321&typeid=1&goto=story Swedish independent Prime PR was the surprise leader among all agencies with 11 finalists in the campaign categories of this years EMEA region SABRE Awards competition, which recognizes Superior Achievement in Branding and Reputation. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11313&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11313&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11312&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11312&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11311&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11311&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11310&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11310&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11308&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11308&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11306&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11306&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11305&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11305&typeid=1&goto=story Sloane & Company, an emerging leader in the corporate, financial, and crisis communications arena recently named The Holmes Reports Crisis Agency of the Year, has sold a majority interest to MDC Partners. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11304&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11304&typeid=1&goto=story Carol Cone, who recently stepped down from the Boston-based cause branding firm that bears her name, is joining Edelman to provide strategic counsel to clients on the development of corporate and brand citizenship, cause and public engagement strategies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11303&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11303&typeid=1&goto=story Paul Walker, former head of digital for GCI Group and later Cohn & Wolfe, is joined PulsePointthe firm created by his former colleagues Bob Feldman and Jeff Huntas partner. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11302&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11302&typeid=1&goto=story Interel and Patri, among the leading public affairs firms in Europe and Brazil respectively, have formed a partnership that aims to provide seamless and comprehensive joint consultancy services to clients that have interests in these areas of the world. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11301&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11301&typeid=1&goto=story Jim Gerace, who currently heads corporate communications for Verizon Wireless, has been named president of Verizon's New York region, responsible for the telecommunications company's corporate interests. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11300&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11300&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations has appointed Samantha Allen, a veteran of the Australian public relations business, as managing director of the agency's global consumer marketing practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11299&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11299&typeid=1&goto=story Financial services lobbyists Anne Urban and Sandra Swirskiboth former partners at Venn Strategieshave formed a new lobbying and consulting practice, Urban Swirski & Associates. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11298&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11298&typeid=1&goto=story Racepoint Group has added several new West coast clients in the entertainment, life sciences, business-to-business technology, e-commerce and public policy sectors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11297&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11297&typeid=1&goto=story Regester Larkin has expanded its international network into West Africa, plus new business for Grayling, and new people in new roles at SCA, Lewis PR and City Savvy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11296&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11296&typeid=1&goto=story Racepoint Group has appointed William Orr as executive vice president of its San Francisco office; plus new people in new roles at Goddard Claussen, CRT/tanaka, Environics, Fleishman-Hillard, LVM Group, Landis Communications, Warschawski, Martopia and Risdall Marketing Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11295&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11295&typeid=1&goto=story Arketi Group has been selected by CEO Ventures to help market a number of its key portfolio companies; plus new business wins for Dukas PR, Risdall Marketing Group, Bateman Group, Morris + King, Zapwater, Pollack PR Marketing Group, and Catapult PR-IR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11294&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11294&typeid=1&goto=story After a year in which the revenues of the global public relations industry declined by more than 10 percent, it is worth remembering that at the end of the day, building a great PR agency is largely about doing great work. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11290&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11290&typeid=1&goto=story Agency of the Year recognition for WCG, Allison & Partners, Kohnstamm Communications and Revive. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11289&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11289&typeid=1&goto=story Our specialist agencies of the year for 2009 include Marina Maher Communications, RF Binder, Sloane & Company, The Grossman Group, FD, Cooney Waters, Rasky Baerlein, MWW Group and Atomic PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11288&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11288&typeid=1&goto=story Hopscotch, one of the leading independent public relations firms in the French market, has merged with Le Public Système, a marketing and communications company best known for its expertise in the luxury goods and entertainment sectors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11285&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11285&typeid=1&goto=story New York City deputy mayor Edward Skyler will join Citigroup as executive vice president, global public affairs. In a newly created position, Skyler will lead all external and internal communications and share leadership of government affairs and investor relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11284&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11284&typeid=1&goto=story As part of a series of management moves, Waggener Edstrom co-founded Pam Edstrom is now also president of the firms global Microsoft business, formalizing her leadership of the agencys largest account after serving in an interim capacity over the past several months. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11283&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11283&typeid=1&goto=story Media and technology investor and former Sony Pictures executive Benjamin Feingold has been named a senior advisor to Hill & Knowlton, providing strategic counsel to H&K corporate, entertainment and technology clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11282&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11282&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has appointed six industry sector heads covering areas ranging from energy and the environment to healthcare to financial services to technology, media and telecommunications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11281&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11281&typeid=1&goto=story Omnicom-owned cause branding specialist Cone has promoted Bill Fleishman to president, responsible for all agency account service disciplines in addition to serving as a strategic advisor and counselor for key agency clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11280&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11280&typeid=1&goto=story Ross Rowbury will join Edelman as president of its operations in Japan. Rowbury was formerly senior managing director and chief operating officer at PRAP, Japans largest independent PR firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11279&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11279&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has acquired a 30 percent equity stake in Solski Burson-Marsteller, its affiliated partner in Poland since 2008. The affiliation between Burson-Marsteller and Solski PR in 2008 marked Bursons return to the Polish market after an absence of seven years. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11278&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11278&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has named Randolph Pitzer as managing director of its Chicago office. He joins Porter Novelli from Edelman, where he spent the past eight years as EVP and general manager in the Chicago offices corporate practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11277&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11277&typeid=1&goto=story Just days after announcing a new partnership with Brussels public affairs firm The Practice, Edelman has hired political, media and corporate veteran Kajsa Wilhelmsson as director of European health public affairs to lead health public policy and advocacy for Edelman in Europe. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11276&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11276&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has promoted Idil Cakim to senior vice president. Based in New York, Cakim is a member of Dialogue, the agencys integrated media team. The firm also appointed senior VP president Zandra Zuno to full-time leader of Confianza. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11275&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11275&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has appointed Eric Slutsky executive vice president and group director of the agency's New York consumer marketing practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11274&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11274&typeid=1&goto=story AutoTrader.co.uk, a leading motoring website, has selected Hotwire for a multi-dimensional campaign, with the overriding objective of transforming the site into a British digital beacon brand. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11273&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11273&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Christine Gerstle as managing director in its U.S. healthcare practice. Gerstle has more than 12 years of experience working in healthcare communications, most recently as senior vice president at Porter Novelli. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11272&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11272&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has appointed Andrew Beck as senior vice president in its Washington, D.C., office. Beck is the former director of public affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11271&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11271&typeid=1&goto=story Big Ass Fans, a designer and manufacturer of large-diameter, low-speed ceiling and vertical fans, has engaged Gibbs & Soell Public Relations for a new brand campaign. The effort will support the launch of the Isis brand to the upscale residential market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11270&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11270&typeid=1&goto=story Haley Marconett has been named senior counselor in Carmichael Lynch Spongs Minneapolis office. In her new role, Marconett will exclusively represent client Supervalu, working half of her time on site at the Supervalu headquarters. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11269&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11269&typeid=1&goto=story Bond PR & Brand Strategy, based in New Orleans, has joined Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies with nearly 50 members worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11268&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11268&typeid=1&goto=story The organizers of the USA Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo have named Martin Alintuck as director of communications, plus a new hire at Edelman; new business for Eastwei and Grayling; and a new member for the IPREX network in New Zealand. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11267&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11267&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has been appointed by Emblaze to advise on international corporate communications and investor relations; plus new business for Lewis PR; new people at Ogilvy and Cavotec MSL; and new members for Public Relations Boutiques International. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11266&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11266&typeid=1&goto=story Biopharmaceutical company Affymax has promoted Sylvia Wheeler to vice president, corporate communications, plus new people in new positions at the Progress & Freedom Foundation, MerchantCircle, and DRI Corporation. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11265&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11265&typeid=1&goto=story G.S. Schwartz & Co. has been hired by three new clients, plus new business for French/West/Vaughan, Trevelino/Keller, RFPR, Trylon SMR, Nancy J. Friedman Public Relations and Landis Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11264&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11264&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum and Weber Shandwick lead the field in terms of Gold and Silver SABRE Award recoginion. Both firms have more than 20 finalists, selected from among more than 1,600 entries to this years North American awards competition. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11259&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11259&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman is merging its office in the European capital of Brussels with The Centre, a firm founded by EU public affairs veteran that calls itself a think-do tank. The new firm will be named Edelman | The Centre. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11254&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11254&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has appointed Kirsty Leighton as its new managing director for the U.K. and Ireland. Leighton was previously global head of client development at Waggener Edstrom, based in London. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11253&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11253&typeid=1&goto=story Michael Durand, a veteran of several senior roles within the healthcare practice at Porter Novelli and Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, has joined Resolute Communications as managing director of its New York office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11252&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11252&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has hired Joseph Landi as executive vice president and director of New York healthcare and Shipra Singh as the head of health care for Europe, the Middle East and Asia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11251&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11251&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has hired Joseph Landi as executive vice president and director of New York healthcare and Shipra Singh as the head of healthcare for Europe, the Middle East and Asia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11250&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11250&typeid=1&goto=story Healthcare public relations specialist Chandler Chicco has launched a new European business unit, Ingenda Communications, which will specialize in identity driven communications within the healthcare environment. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11249&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11249&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners has formed a strategic partnership with Dr. John OBrien, a leading public health expert who is a frequent speaker on issues ranging from chronic disease to public health policy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11248&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11248&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has strengthened its Southeast Asia presence by opening a wholly owned office in Jakarta, Indonesia, expanding a Southeast Asia footprint that already includes offices in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Manila. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11247&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11247&typeid=1&goto=story Veteran public relations expert Christina Rae, most recently vice president of executive communications for CIT Group, has launched her own firm, Buzz Creators. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11246&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11246&typeid=1&goto=story Raytheon Company has named David Jensen vice president of communications for its intelligence and information systems business, responsible for leading internal and external communication programs in support of IIS' growth strategy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11245&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11245&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has named Eric Villines senior vice president and general manager of its Northern Pacific operations, as well as practice leader for the agencys global technology department. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11244&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11244&typeid=1&goto=story The Jeffrey Group has expanded its digital communications practice with the formation of Jeffrey Digital, which centralizes planning, production and fulfillment of web design, social media and online communications campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11243&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11243&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Christine Jones as regional managing director, Asia-Pacific, responsible for driving strategic business development in the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11242&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11242&typeid=1&goto=story Janeen Lawlor and Kathryn Stack have been appointed directors in the public affairs practice at Burson-Marsteller. Lawlor will be based in New York and Stack will be based in Washington, D.C. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11241&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11241&typeid=1&goto=story The Glover Park Group has appointed Jason Rosenberg, formerly senior economic policy advisor to Senator Jon Tester (D-Mt.), as a vice president in its government affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11240&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11240&typeid=1&goto=story tierney, one of the largest full-service strategic communications agencies in the Philadelphia region, has promoted Molly Kuehn Watson to the newly-created position of chief marketing officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11239&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11239&typeid=1&goto=story Las Vegas Sands Corporation has selected GolinHarris to handle public relations for the launch of its Sands Eco 360° global sustainable program. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11238&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11238&typeid=1&goto=story Quinn Gillespie & Associates has hired Christopher Brown as director of digital strategy, responsible for developing digital advocacy programs for the firms clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11237&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11237&typeid=1&goto=story Gloria Dittus, a 30-year veteran of the Washington public affairs scene whose firm Dittus Communications was acquired by Financial Dynamics (now FD) in December of 2005, has launched a new firm, Story Partners. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11235&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11235&typeid=1&goto=story Helene Ellison has been appointed global chair of the healthcare practice at Burson-Marsteller. Ellison is a veteran of the healthcare and pharmaceutical communications industry with expertise in corporate positioning, product lifecycle and regulatory communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11234&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11234&typeid=1&goto=story Dentsu, one of the worlds largest advertising agencies, and its Dentsu Public Relations subsidiary, are partnering with leading Chinese independent public relations firm BlueFocus Communication Group to launch Dentsu BlueFocus Public Relations Consulting. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11233&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11233&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has created a new role, naming Sarah Howe director of campaign innovation, responsible for infusing Text 100s client work with greater innovation globally, driving greater client satisfaction and growing existing clients either geographically or in terms of practices. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11232&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11232&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard has promoted senior vice president and partner J.J. Carter to general manager of its San Francisco office Carter currently serves as the client relationship manager for Visa and EA Sports, two of the agencys largest clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11231&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11231&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Nathan Ballard, best known as an advisor to San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, as managing director. Ballard is a veteran political communications executive with years of experience handling high-profile clients and campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11230&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11230&typeid=1&goto=story Telecommunications giant Alcatel-Lucent has appointed Regine Coqueran-Gelin as head of corporate communications and corporate social responsibility. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11229&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11229&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has strengthened its Japanese leadership team through the appointment of Kuniko Okuwaki as deputy managing director. The firm also says it will name a new president and representative director, who will join Edelman on May 1. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11228&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11228&typeid=1&goto=story Comcast Corporation, a leading provider of entertainment, information and communication products and services, has promoted Sena Fitzmaurice to vice president, government communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11227&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11227&typeid=1&goto=story South Korean tire manufacturer Hankook Tire has selected National Public Relations as its Canadian agency of record following a competitive review. Hankook has targeted Canada as a major growth market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11226&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11226&typeid=1&goto=story Dix & Eaton has promoted Robert Berick to senior managing director. Berick, who provides senior counsel in investor relations, corporate communications, media relations and issues management for public companies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11225&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11225&typeid=1&goto=story DSM Nutritional Products has appointed Resolute Communications, the international healthcare-focused communications firm, to launch an 18-month public relations and communications campaign. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11224&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11224&typeid=1&goto=story Annie Chuns, a leading producer of all-natural, gourmet Pan-Asian foods, has retained Formula as its agency of record to generate national awareness and excitement for the brand and its simple, all-natural meal solutions. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11223&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11223&typeid=1&goto=story IPREX, a network of independent public relations and communication firms, has elected Operate, a full service agency with a staff of more than 30 based in Copenhagen, as its Danish partner, and now offers coverage throughout the Nordic market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11222&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11222&typeid=1&goto=story Todd Irons, political communications strategist and Capitol Hill policy veteran, has joined the David All Group as a vice president. Irons is the former deputy communications director at the Republican National Committee. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11221&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11221&typeid=1&goto=story Zurich Financial Services Group has appointed Pierre Goad as its global head of corporate communications, plus a new client for Firefly, and new people at JKL in Denmark and Lewis PR in London. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11220&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11220&typeid=1&goto=story ACA International, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals, has hired Mark Schiffman as its new director of public relations, plus new people in new roles at Johns Hopkins and DaVita http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11219&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11219&typeid=1&goto=story MedThink Communications has named Michael Szumera as vice president and public relations practice lead, plus new people in new roles at Weber Shandwick, Zizzo Group, and Risdall Marketing Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11218&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11218&typeid=1&goto=story Blaze has been engaged by six new clients, plus new business wins for Bob Gold & Associates, Strategic Communications Group, Morris + King, and Duffy & Shanley, while Scott Public Relations becomes part of PR Boutiques International. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11217&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11217&typeid=1&goto=story The Holmes Report is seeking submissions for a new annual ranking of public relations agencies. The new project will include a global ranking, as well as separate rankings for North America, the EMEA and Asia-Pacific region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11216&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11216&typeid=1&goto=story Coyne Public Relations has added healthcare communications veteran Kelly Dencker as senior vice president and director of healthcare. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11211&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11211&typeid=1&goto=story The New York Times Company has named Robert Christie senior vice president of corporate communications, charged with the planning, development and implementation of the company's internal and external communications strategies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11210&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11210&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has named Bill Reihl executive vice president and head of the agencys North American consumer marketing practice, a position that has been open since Barby Siegel left to head Zeno Group last year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11209&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11209&typeid=1&goto=story Cablevision Systems Corporation has promoted Lisa Rosenblum to executive vice president, government and public affairs. Rosenblum will continue to serve as Cablevisions chief government affairs executive and strategist. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11208&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11208&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has appointed James Kelly as the agencys first creative director. Kelly is based in the agencys New York office and will report to Ellen Ryan Mardiks, vice chairman. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11207&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11207&typeid=1&goto=story Racepoint Group, part of Larry Webers W2 Group, has launched Racepoint Labs, a new unit that will help companies decided which social media platforms and tools to deploy, how to develop social media strategies and measure business impact http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11206&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11206&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has promoted Baxter Jolly, currently managing director for Southeast Asia based in Singapore, to vice chairman of Weber Shandwick Asia Pacific. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11205&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11205&typeid=1&goto=story Integrated marketing firm Paul Werth Associates is bolstering its digital and social media marketing prowess with the acquisition of huber+company interactive. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11204&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11204&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Margaret Key as its new market leader in Korea. Key joins the firm from Edelman, where she served as its managing director in Japan and will report to Burson-Marsteller Asia-Pacific CEO and president Bob Pickard. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11203&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11203&typeid=1&goto=story Policy Action, part of College Public Policy, has established an advisory board to provide guidance and expertise to the management of the EU affairs consultancy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11202&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11202&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has strengthened its New York healthcare practice: Mary Coyle joins as senior vice president of healthcare media relations and Larissa Severenko as senior vice president of the healthcare practice in New York. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11201&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11201&typeid=1&goto=story rbb Public Relations has been named agency of record for United HomeCare Services, a non-profit full-service home care organization, and for Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa Miami Beach, a luxury boutique hotel dedicated to wellness. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11200&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11200&typeid=1&goto=story IPREX has expanded its coverage in the Nordic region by electing PR Agency Manifesto as a partner in Finland; plus new business success for Pelham Bell Pottinger and Harvard, and a new regional director for Grayling Momentum. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11199&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11199&typeid=1&goto=story RMS Public Relations has been engaged by Visionary Apps, the creator of smart phone tools, to launch the companys Complete Realty Suite; plus new business for Warschawski, Maccabee Group, JS2 Communications and Morris + King. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11198&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11198&typeid=1&goto=story Selim Bingol has been appointed General Motors vice president of communications, reporting to Ed Whitacre, chairman and CEO, with responsibility for GMs global communications, including global products and brands, corporate, public policy and more. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11195&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11195&typeid=1&goto=story Public relations and public affairs revenues at WPP Group declined by 7.4 percent in like-for-like terms last year, with a fourth quarter improvement in performance at Burson-Marsteller and Hill & Knowlton helping the companys PR operations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11194&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11194&typeid=1&goto=story Carol Cone, founder and chairman of Omnicom-owned Cone, best known for its pioneering work in cause branding, will leave the agency effective March 31 to pursue new interests. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11193&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11193&typeid=1&goto=story Dow Jones & Company has appointed Bethany Sherman as chief communications officer. She will be responsible for all aspects of communications strategy for the global news and business information company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11192&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11192&typeid=1&goto=story Harrahs Entertainment, the worlds largest provider of branded casino entertainment has retained DKC to showcase its entertainment and hospitality offerings in Atlantic City. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11191&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11191&typeid=1&goto=story Bausch + Lomb, the global eye health company, has appointed Jane Mazur as vice president, public relations, for its global and North American vision care business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11190&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11190&typeid=1&goto=story Michelle Hutton is joining Edelman Australia as chief executive officer. Hutton joins the company from Hill & Knowlton, where she was chief executive, Australasia, and also led the brand marketing practice for the company across Asia Pacific. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11189&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11189&typeid=1&goto=story Steve Harris, longtime head of global communications at General Motors, has joined the faculty of the public relations studies program at the University of Southern Californias Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11188&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11188&typeid=1&goto=story The US High Speed Rail Association has appointed Hill & Knowlton as its communications agency of record as it seeks to intensify its advocacy for high speed rail development in America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11187&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11187&typeid=1&goto=story French/West/Vaughan has been selected by 1800Hotels.com as worldwide agency of record for an $11 million integrated marketing account. The account was awarded following an extensive six month review by the client. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11186&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11186&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has expanded its global presence to South Africa with a new, wholly-owned office in Johannesburg. Marketing industry veteran Marcus Sorour will join WE as general manager, South Africa. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11185&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11185&typeid=1&goto=story Leading U.K. public affairs specialist hanover international has hired Christian Hierholzer, most recently ofWeber Shandwicks Brussels public affairs practice, to lead the firms new Brussels office as managing director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11184&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11184&typeid=1&goto=story Gulfstream Aerospace, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, has named Jeff Miller to the newly created position of vice president, communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11183&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11183&typeid=1&goto=story J. Norwell Coquillard, former chairman and president of Cargill Investment, is joining APCO Worldwide in China as a senior counselor and a member of APCOs International Advisory Council based in Shanghai. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11182&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11182&typeid=1&goto=story The Virginia State Corporation Commission has selected GolinHarris Public Affairs to lead an integrated, state-wide communications campaign to motivate Virginia consumers to save energy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11181&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11181&typeid=1&goto=story Christina Reynolds, former special assistant to the President and White House director of media affairs, is joining The Glover Park Group as a managing director in the firms public affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11180&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11180&typeid=1&goto=story Crenshaw Communications has been named agency of record by Verizon Wireless for the New York metropolitan region. The firm was selected from among 30 agencies participating in a competitive review. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11179&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11179&typeid=1&goto=story As part of a global initiative to promote Marrakesh as a travel destination, the Moroccan National Tourist Office has selected Bell Pottinger Business & Brand, part of the Bell Pottinger Group, to run the RedM By Marrakesh campaign in the U.K. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11178&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11178&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group has hired Israel Hernandez and Camille Anderson in the firm's growing San Francisco office. Hernandez will focus on international mandates, market access, and transactions; Anderson will concentrate on crises, public affairs and corporate reputation and media engagement. assignments. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11177&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11177&typeid=1&goto=story Harvest Power has selected Greenough Communications as its agency of record. Harvest selected Greenough to help articulate the innovation behind its technologies and the role Harvest will play in advancing organics recycling. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11176&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11176&typeid=1&goto=story Lisa Carr, co-founder of communication consulting firm Nine Dot Strategies, has joined APCO Worldwides Washington, D.C., office as a vice president in the firms issues management practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11175&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11175&typeid=1&goto=story Roger Pereira, CEO and managing director of Edelmans India operation, has retired from the firm; plus new business for Eastwei and Text 100; new personnel at Burson-Marsteller. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11174&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11174&typeid=1&goto=story Jannik Lindbæk has been appointed vice president media relations in Statoil, plus new people for Lewis in London and Text 100 in South Africa; new clients for Hotwire, Bell Pottinger and Good Relations http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11173&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11173&typeid=1&goto=story Patrick Slevin has been named senior vice president and general manager of Hill & Knowlton's Tallahassee office, plus new people in new roles at MS&L Toronto, Widmeyer, Landis, Warschawski, Zapwater, Coyne PR, and Fast Horse. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11172&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11172&typeid=1&goto=story The Interpublic Group of Companiesparent to Weber Shandwick, GolinHarris, MWW, DeVries and other public relations brandssaw its revenues for 2009 decline by close to 11 percent, from $6.96 billion in 2008 to $6.03 billion. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11168&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11168&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, the parent of public relations firms Citigate Dewe Rogers, Grayling and The Red Consultancy and healthcare communications specialist Huntsworth Health, saw its organic revenues decline by 4.7 percent in 2009. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11167&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11167&typeid=1&goto=story Veteran corporate communicator Harvey Greisman, most recently senior vice president of worldwide communications at MasterCard Worldwide, died suddenly last week of a heart attack. He was 61. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11166&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11166&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum and TBWA\RAAD\PR, one of the leading communications networks in the Middle East, have formed a joint venture agreement to deliver capabilities to clients in the region and internationally. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11165&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11165&typeid=1&goto=story Monique da Silva has joined Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide as executive vice president and head of the firms North America healthcare practice, reporting to Kate Cronin, managing director of Ogilvy PR's New York office and global healthcare practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11164&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11164&typeid=1&goto=story Matt Donovan has been named chief strategic officer of Euro RSCG Worldwide PR North America, while Karina Meckel has been named director of strategic planning. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11163&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11163&typeid=1&goto=story Widmeyer Communications is working with the National Association for the Self-Employed to highlight the contributions of the self-employed and micro-businesses to the U.S. economy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11162&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11162&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling has been appointed by the International Federation for Animal Health to conduct a major international communications study on behalf of the Federation, a Brussels based non-profit organization. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11161&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11161&typeid=1&goto=story Cinnabon, a leader in the cinnamon roll bakery category, and Dole Frozen Fruit, an award-winning frozen fruit product, have joined The Rogers Groups roster of clients in its expanding food and beverage practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11160&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11160&typeid=1&goto=story Rogers & Cowan has been selected by Advanstar Communications, a worldwide media company, to manage public relations for the 2010 Licensing International Expo, one of the leading licensing events in the world. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11159&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11159&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has been named public relations agency of record for Keurig, a pioneer and leading manufacturer of single-cup brewing systems. Keurig selected MS&L following a competitive review and the account will be led by staff in MS&Ls Boston. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11158&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11158&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard has promoted Danielle Hurtt to vice president and director of marketing. In her new role, Hurtt will develop and direct an integrated corporate marketing program to promote the firms brand worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11157&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11157&typeid=1&goto=story Following a string of new business wins consumer agency Komodo PR & Digital Communications has strengthened its team with two new hires. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11156&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11156&typeid=1&goto=story Krishna Guha has been named executive vice president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, plus new people in new roles at Celanese Corporation, LPL Financial, Ilitch Holdings and Dolan Media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11155&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11155&typeid=1&goto=story Fineman PR has added Montesquieu Wines to its list of clients in the wine industry; plus new business successes for Goodman Media, Greenough Communications, CRT/tanaka, Pollack PR Marketing Group, Arketi Group, Shazaam, and Zapwater. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11154&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11154&typeid=1&goto=story Following the departure of longtime corporate communications chief Edward Adler, Time Warner has appointed former News Corp. communications chief Gary Ginsberg as executive vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11153&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11153&typeid=1&goto=story GolinHarris has promoted Ellen Ryan Mardiks to vice chairman, a new position. Mardiks will lead efforts to position and market the agency, focus on new business development and the creative product, and formalize the agencys approach to client relationship management. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11152&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11152&typeid=1&goto=story Revenue at Publicis Groupeparent of the MS&L, Publicis Consultants and Kekst and Company public relations brandsdeclined by 3.8 percent last year to ¬4.52 billion, with a decline in net profit of 9.8 percent to ¬403 million. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11151&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11151&typeid=1&goto=story VTech, a leader in electronic learning products, has selected Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide as PR agency of record for its electronic learning products division in the U.S. market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11150&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11150&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has named Jeanine OKane North America director of MS&L healthcare and promoted Scott Beaudoin to North American director of the agencys cause marketing and corporate social responsibility specialty. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11149&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11149&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners has added Matthew Della Croce to its senior leadership team as managing director of its corporate communications practice, based in New York. Della Croce joins Allison & Partners from MWW Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11148&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11148&typeid=1&goto=story Minoru Koshida has joined Fleishman-Hillard Japan as senior vice president for training, crisis and issues management. Koshida will spearhead the next-stage development of offerings in CEO coaching, media training, crisis preparedness/response and issues management. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11147&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11147&typeid=1&goto=story Jennifer Swint, founder and former president of communication consulting firm Nine Dot Strategies, joins APCO Worldwides Washington, D.C., office. Swint is a senior vice president and the firms business development director for the North American region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11146&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11146&typeid=1&goto=story World Triathlon Corporation, best known for its ownership of the Ironman Triathlon, has selected Ketchum Sports & Entertainment as its global public relations agency of record. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11145&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11145&typeid=1&goto=story WCG, the healthcare communications group formerly known as WeissCom, has hired Jeff Yates as creative director in its New York office in an effort better serve the growing digital, creative and interactive needs of its clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11144&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11144&typeid=1&goto=story New York public relations firm Gibbs & Soell has appointed Kevin Horsley as managing director of its Swiss operations, which specialize in providing native English-language public relations and marketing communications services to Swiss and European-based global clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11143&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11143&typeid=1&goto=story The IZOD IndyCar Series selected GolinHarris as agency of record to work with sponsors, teams and drivers to re-energize the sport of open wheel racing. The agency will focus efforts in the areas of media relations, special events, promotions and social media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11142&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11142&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has hired Don Wilcox as senior vice president and Nicole Ratcliff as vice president. The pair will work to build a government affairs specialty in Sacramento, offering expertise in lobbying to a range of the agency's clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11141&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11141&typeid=1&goto=story The Julius Baer Group, a leading Swiss private banking group, has appointed Georg Hess as head public affairs. The newly created role is designed to strengthen the company's dialogue with members of the political arena, the economy and society. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11140&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11140&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has hired Stephanie Koze as executive vice president to manage its Shire Pharmaceuticals Group business. Koze brings more than 20 years experience overseeing U.S. and global communications and marketing campaigns. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11139&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11139&typeid=1&goto=story Travel and lifestyle public relations firms Lou Hammond & Associates has been selected as the marketing communications agency of record for Rail Europe after a competitive review. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11138&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11138&typeid=1&goto=story Widmeyer Communications has appointed Maris Segal as a senior vice president in the firms New York office. Segal brings more than 20 years of experience in strategic communications, marketing, collaborative partnerships and public affairs to her new role. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11137&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11137&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has formalized an alliance with Whizpr, a Netherlands-based IT and lifestyle PR specialist, plus new business successes for Porter Novelli, Citigate Dewe Rogerson, and Lewis PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11136&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11136&typeid=1&goto=story Omnicom, parent company to multinational public relations firms Fleishman-Hillard, Ketchum, Porter Novelli and more, saw its revenues from PR decline by 15 percent last year, underperforming the market during a difficult year for marketing services. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11134&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11134&typeid=1&goto=story Does Weber Shandwick score such high marks from employees because it has been outperforming its competitors, or is it outperforming its competitors because it has such satisfied employees? http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11133&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11133&typeid=1&goto=story One of Speeds predecessor firms, Rainier PR, won our Best U.K. Consultancy to Work For Award in 2005 and 2006 and managing directors Stephen Waddington and Steve Earl have clearly brought their magic touch to Speed. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11132&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11132&typeid=1&goto=story A perennial favorite in our surveythe firm was our Best Specialist Multinational Consultancy to Work For last year as wellJohnson King, with offices in the U.K., France and Germany, scores remarkably high marks when it comes to helping people balance work and life. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11131&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11131&typeid=1&goto=story Every employee at Dutch technology and social media specialist LVT has a personal development and training budget. In close cooperation with a coach, each co-worker sets up a training program based on personal skills and experience. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11130&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11130&typeid=1&goto=story Richard Sambrook, the BBCs director of global news and a member of the BBCs management board for the last ten years, is joining Edelman as global vice chairman and chief content officer in May. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11127&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11127&typeid=1&goto=story Edward Adler, longtime executive vice president of corporate communications at Time Warner, will leave the company after a transition period. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11126&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11126&typeid=1&goto=story Bayer HealthCare, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, has selected Omnicom Group and WPP as its primary global marketing services partners for its four business units. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11125&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11125&typeid=1&goto=story Beckerman, a fast-growing New Jersey public relations firm, is opening a Washington, D.C., office. The new office will be led by newly appointed senior vice president for crisis, litigation and legal services Naomi Decter. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11124&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11124&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has expanded its India footprint, opening a wholly owned office in New Delhi that complements the firms established presence in Mumbai, which opened in 2007. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11123&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11123&typeid=1&goto=story Lexis Public Relations has launched a new specialty practice focusing on the over-50s. The division, called Sixty, will work with brand marketers to help them to better understand and reach older audiences. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11122&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11122&typeid=1&goto=story Makovsky + Company has expanded its healthcare practice, adding digital and visual communications capabilities to health policy and product positioning. The digital offering will align the firms existing health sector knowledge and social media expertise. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11121&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11121&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has appointed Catriona Booth to the newly created role of general manager, corporate. She will manage the corporate and financial services group on a day-to-day basis and to develop and oversee the core services and key client relationships within that group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11120&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11120&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has been awarded an assignment from the American Society for Quality, a global community of experts positioned as a leading authority on quality in all fields, organizations and industries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11119&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11119&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has expanded its healthcare public offering with the promotion of Lucie Harper to group managing director, healthcare communications and Brian Tjugum to head of the agencys European public health practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11118&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11118&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has been named agency of record for digital activities for Chicago-based Bel Brands USAs portfolio of snack cheese products, which includes The Laughing Cow Wedges and Mini Babybel. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11117&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11117&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners has added strategic marketing and public relations expert Cathy Planchard as general manager of its Phoenix office. Planchard will be responsible for accelerating the firms growth in the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11116&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11116&typeid=1&goto=story Jessica McCormick is joining APCO Worldwide as a senior associate in the financial communication practice; plus new people in new roles at Capstrat, JohnstonWells Public Relations, and Jones Public Affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11115&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11115&typeid=1&goto=story Warschawski has been tapped by the City of Baltimore and the United Way of Central Maryland, plus new account wins for French/West/Vaughan, FoodMinds, Krupp Kommunikations, Zapwater Communications and 5W PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11114&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11114&typeid=1&goto=story The Holmes Group has extended the deadline for entries to the EMEA region SABRE Awards competition until February 26, 2010. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11112&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11112&typeid=1&goto=story In the five years this publication has been covering the EMEA region, no firm has improved its capabilities as dramatically as Fleishman-Hillard, now increasingly capable of competing on an equal footing with longer-established competitors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11111&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11111&typeid=1&goto=story Lots of familiar names among Specialist Consultancies of the Year, with awards for Frank PR (Consumer), College Hill (corporate), Hering Schuppener (Financial), Chandler Chicco (healthcare), Burson-Marsteller (public affairs) and Lewis (technology). http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11110&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11110&typeid=1&goto=story This year's Consultancy of the Year honorees include Arcay in Africa; akkanto in Benelux; PRP in Eastern Europe; Elan in France; Burson-Marsteller in Germany; Llorente & Cuenca in Iberia; Edelman in Italy; Prime PR in the Nordics; and Blue Rubicon in the U.K. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11109&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11109&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has appointed Mike Kan as global healthcare practice leader. Kan will oversee the development of Cohn & Wolfe's global healthcare offering, which includes more than 300 healthcare communications professionals around the world. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11108&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11108&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has appointed Mike Kan as global healthcare practice leader. Kan will oversee the development of Cohn & Wolfe's global healthcare offering, which includes more than 300 healthcare communications professionals around the world. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11107&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11107&typeid=1&goto=story Frank Ovaitt has joined Makovsky + Company as executive vice president, leading the firms efforts to integrate research into public relations practice. Ovaitt is CEO Emeritus of the Institute for Public Relations and professor of applied public relations research at The George Washington University. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11106&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11106&typeid=1&goto=story WPP-owned government affairs firm Quinn Gillespie & Associates has hired Matthew Dornic as a director in the QGA Communications practice. The addition of Dornic is part of a planned expansion of QGA's strategic communications and public affairs capacity. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11105&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11105&typeid=1&goto=story Matt Gonring, a veteran corporate communications professional, is joining $3.5 billion food service and food packaging company Pactivbest known for its Hefty brandas vice president of communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11104&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11104&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has appointed Kazumi Mechling as president and market leader for Los Angeles. Mechling joins Cohn & Wolfe from Waggener-Edstrom where she was executive vice president and consumer marketing practice leader. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11103&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11103&typeid=1&goto=story Cablevision Systems Corporation has appointed Charles Schueler executive vice president, communications and community relations. In this new position, Schueler will continue to serve as Cablevision's chief communications officer and strategist as well as primary spokesperson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11102&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11102&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has appointed new leadership for its public relations and public affairs operations in Brussels, relocating veteran public affairs specialist Jeff Chertack from Ogilvys Washington, D.C., operation to become managing director in Brussels. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11101&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11101&typeid=1&goto=story africapractice, the pan-African strategic communications consultancy, has been selected to work with Google in sub-Saharan Africa. africapractice will manage public relations for Google in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal and South Africa http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11100&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11100&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton is opening an office in Bogotá, Colombia. The new office expands H&Ks presence in Latin America, giving H&K eight fully-owned and operated offices in the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11099&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11099&typeid=1&goto=story Celebrity Kimora Lee Simmons and her Phat Fashions design company have selected Rogers & Cowan as their agency of record. The entertainment marketing and PR firm will develop and implement a media relations campaign designed to broaden awareness. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11098&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11098&typeid=1&goto=story Daniela Canegallo, currently chief executive of MS&L Italia, has been named to the additional role of MS&L Group in Italy, with responsibility for the combined operations of MS&L Italia, Publicis Consultants and design firm Carré Noir. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11097&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11097&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has hired Dirk Shaw as a senior vice president of its 360 Degree digital influence practice. Shaw is an experienced digital marketer and will oversee the strategic planning and creative deployment of social media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11096&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11096&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has been selected as PR agency of record for Schneider Electric, providing support for the companys North America corporate and business PR activities. Text 100 will partner with Schneider to establish thought leadership within the energy management industry. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11095&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11095&typeid=1&goto=story The Glover Park Group has hired Brian Gaston, a long time advisor to the House Republican leadership, as a managing director in its government affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11094&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11094&typeid=1&goto=story The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel has selected Weber Shandwick Shanghai to represent its presence at the World Expo 2010 Shanghai, following a competitive pitch. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11093&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11093&typeid=1&goto=story Omnicom-owned EU public affairs firm GPlus Europe has appointed two new partners, promoting Lucía Caudet and Stéphanie Pochon. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11092&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11092&typeid=1&goto=story Widmeyer Communications has named Henry Engleka a principal at the firm and the new managing director of its New York office. Engleka heads the firms health and wellness practice and with his promotion also joins Widmeyers leadership team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11091&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11091&typeid=1&goto=story Dole Europe, one of the largest distributors of fresh produce in Europe, has chosen French public relations agency Hopscotch and its Dublin-based subsidiary Hopscotch Europe In One to carry out a public relations campaign across 30 countries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11090&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11090&typeid=1&goto=story Linhart Public Relations has named Dawn Doty, a vice president at the firm, to join Sharon Linhart, founder and managing partner, and Paul Raab, Carri Clemens, and Kelly Janhunen, as a fifth partner in the Denver-based firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11089&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11089&typeid=1&goto=story Crisis communications and reputation management consultancy Regester Larkin has strengthened its media relations expertise with the appointment of three new consultants: Damon Hunt, Alexandra Durnford and Ben Overlander. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11088&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11088&typeid=1&goto=story Zenzi Communications, a public relations and social media firm that works with technology, business-to-business, consumer and hospitality clients, has expanded operations to Boulder, Colorado. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11087&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11087&typeid=1&goto=story BMW Group Australia has appointed Tim James to the position of public relations and corporate communications manager, plus new people in new roles at Weber Shandwick, Langham Hotels, and new business for Eastwei. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11086&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11086&typeid=1&goto=story Senior European Commission official Mogens Peter Carl has joined Kreab Gavin Anderson as a senior advisor, plus new people at Continental Corporation, new business at Johnson King, Lewis PR, Beattie and Firefly. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11085&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11085&typeid=1&goto=story Current Lifestyle Marketing has promoted Virginia Devlin to president, plus new people in new roles atRasky Baerlein, Outreach Strategies, Englander Knabe & Allen, MWW Group, Capstrat and Fish Consulting. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11084&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11084&typeid=1&goto=story ABS Nautical Systems has named Hill & Knowlton its official agency of record for communications, plus new business at Weber Shandwick, Greentarget, Merritt Group, Laidlaw Group, and Fish Consulting. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11083&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11083&typeid=1&goto=story The Holmes Group has extended the deadline for entries to the North American SABRE Awards competition until February 19, 2010. The entry form can be downloaded here: http://www.holmesreport.com/PDF/SABRENY2010.pdf http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11080&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11080&typeid=1&goto=story WCG, the healthcare communications specialist formerly known as WeissComm, has appointed Gail Cohen as global managing director to oversee the companys expanding international business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11079&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11079&typeid=1&goto=story GCI Health, a WPP-owned healthcare specialist firm formed when the rest of GCI merged with Cohn & Wolfe, has appointed Wendy Lund as chief executive officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11078&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11078&typeid=1&goto=story Six months after the merger of Omnicom agencies Ketchum and Pleon, the two firms have created a single change management entity. Ketchum Pleon Change combines expertise and best practices from two existing units. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11077&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11077&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has appointed Lucien Vallun as regional director of its Central and Eastern Europe region. The move is part of a global agency-wide initiative to focus on double-digit organic growth over the next five years. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11076&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11076&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has hired Scott Grubin as chief talent officer and partner. In his new role he will be responsible for the global acquisition of senior talent, and will develop and oversee the agencys programs and policies related to recruitment, retention, professional development, diversity and benefits. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11075&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11075&typeid=1&goto=story New York-based public relations firm Makovsky + Company has formed a strategic alliance with Concept Communication, one of Indias leading independent communications agencies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11074&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11074&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has promoted Patricia Godefroy to chief branding officer. In the role, Godefroy will further develop Cohn & Wolfes expertise in helping build the worlds leading brands and spread the agencys brand marketing acumen among employees. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11073&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11073&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard is joining forces with McGregors International in a move designed to bolster the firms capabilities in Sydney and expand its Australian presence. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11072&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11072&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has appointed Shaun Wootton as general manager of its London office. Wootton is currently WEs general manager in Paris and will play an active role in appointing his successor in France. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11071&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11071&typeid=1&goto=story The Glover Park Group has hired Grant Leslie, most recently a senior advisor to Secretary Tom Vilsack at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as a vice president in its government affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11070&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11070&typeid=1&goto=story Dwayne Lawler has joined Widmeyer Communications as a senior vice president in the firms health and wellness practice. Based in Widmeyers New York office, Lawler will focus on strengthening the firms corporate and executive communications offerings. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11069&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11069&typeid=1&goto=story GSMK CryptoPhone, a mobile voice security specialist, has appointed Lewis PR as its retained agency in the U.K. after a competitive pitch. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11068&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11068&typeid=1&goto=story CitySavvy has appointed Omara Nahar as a senior account director in its Benelux operation, plus new business for College Hill and a new design business formed by Fishburn Hedges Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11067&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11067&typeid=1&goto=story Landis Communications has signed four new clients: KMD Architects and SFJAZZ; plus new business successes for MSR Communications, Litzky Public Relations, JS2 Communications, JMPR Public Relations and Trylon SMR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11066&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11066&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Asian public relations industry veteran Bob Pickard as president and chief executive officer, Asia-Pacific, reporting to Burson-Marsteller global CEO Mark Penn. Pickard was most recently president of North Asia for Edelman. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11013&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11013&typeid=1&goto=story A week after hiring former Fleishman-Hillard vice-chair Paul Johnson as the president of its public affairs and strategic communications group, National Strategies is creating two new companies: Interpoint Group and Kratos Global Strategies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11012&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11012&typeid=1&goto=story Good Relations, part of the Bell Pottinger Group, has been appointed as global public relations agency of record for Airbus, the world's leading aircraft manufacturer. Good Relations will support the organization's commitment to The Green Wave initiative. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11011&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11011&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has hired Sally Ward as partner and managing director of its United Kingdom operations. Ward spent seven years with Porter Novelli in London earlier in her career and returns to replace Jean Wyllie, who announced her departure from the agency late last year. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11010&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11010&typeid=1&goto=story Corporate communications consultancy Luther Pendragon has acquired public affairs specialist Quintus Communications to form one of the U.K.s largest independent public relations consultancies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11009&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11009&typeid=1&goto=story Veteran U.K. public relations executives Nick Giles and Michael Hayman have joined forces to launch Seven Hills, a new PR consultancy. Giles was formerly managing director of Text 100, while Hayman was most recently chief executive of The Communication Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11008&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11008&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has appointed Alex He as senior vice president and general manager of its Shanghai office, and Shijun Ma as vice president and deputy general manager. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11007&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11007&typeid=1&goto=story The merger of Huntsworths Grayling, Mmd and Trimedia units has completed, with the official launch this week of Grayling, believed to be the worlds second largest independent public relations firm with a staff of 900 across 70 offices. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11006&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11006&typeid=1&goto=story Airbus has appointed Grayling to support its corporate communications activity in Singapore. Grayling will provide media relations services, support for events and other regular PR activities in Singapore. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11005&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11005&typeid=1&goto=story Sav Banerjee has joined MWW Group as a senior digital strategist in the firms industry DialogueMedia practice. Banerjee brings more than six years of experience working in the digital marketing and social media space. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11004&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11004&typeid=1&goto=story Panasonic has chosen Lewis PR to manage a pan-European public relations campaign to promote its new imaging division. Part of Panasonics European system network, PSNE, the new business unit markets scanners and electronic whiteboards across Europe. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11003&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11003&typeid=1&goto=story he Minneapolis-St. Paul office of Weber Shandwick has been selected to handle a three-year campaign for Taste of the NFL. Weber Shandwick will support the organizations campaign to tackle hunger in the United States. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11002&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11002&typeid=1&goto=story Whiting Petroleum Corporation has named Jack Ekstrom as vice president, corporate and government relations, plus new people in new roles at Gilt Groupe, Ameristar Casinos, and the North American Soccer League. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11001&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11001&typeid=1&goto=story rbb Public Relations has been named agency of record for Fluenz and Global Keratin; plus new business successes for G.S. Schwartz & Co., Morris + King, Conover Tuttle Pace and Bob Gold & Associates. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11000&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=11000&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick and FD were again the two dominant firms in the Asia-Pacific mergers and acquisitions activity during 2009, according to year-end rankings produced by mergermarket. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10941&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10941&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has appointed Shoichi Yoshikawa managing director of Hill & Knowlton Japan. Yoshikawa, an expert in integrated marketing and branding, brings 18 years experience in creating and executing marketing and PR plans for global and domestic companies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10939&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10939&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 has promoted Marc Ha, previously managing consultant of its Singapore office, to ASEAN director. He will also assume APAC leadership of Lenovo, the agencys largest account in the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10938&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10938&typeid=1&goto=story Coca-Cola Beverages Limited has brought in Eastwei to oversee public relations for Sprites restage campaign in China, plus new people in new roles at Waggener Edstrom, new business at Weber Shandwick. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10937&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10937&typeid=1&goto=story Jonathan Jordan, who led an impressive turnaround of Burson-Marstellers U.K. operations over the past three years, is leaving the firm at the end of February to establish his own communications consulting business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10936&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10936&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick and FD were again the two dominant firms in European mergers and acquisitions activity during 2009, according to year-end rankings produced by mergermarket. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10935&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10935&typeid=1&goto=story Industrial manufacturing giant Eaton Corporation has named Scott Trahan vice president of communications, for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He will report directly to Yannis Tsavalas, president for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10934&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10934&typeid=1&goto=story Credit Suisse has appointed Pamela Thomas-Graham to the new role of chief talent, branding and communications officer. In her new role, she will be a member of the executive boards of Credit Suisse Group and Credit Suisse. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10933&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10933&typeid=1&goto=story Kate Gordon has been appointed vice president of corporate communications for the ATP, the international association for tennis professionals. Gordon begins her duties with the ATP this week and will be based in the ATPs London office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10932&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10932&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has been selected by motoring consumer champion Motor Codes Limited. Motor Codes is the body responsible for the self regulation of the motor industry through consumer codes of practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10931&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10931&typeid=1&goto=story IPREX has added wbpr as an additional partner in Germany, plus new people in new roles at Hill & Knowlton, FD Blueprint, Husqvarna, and M:Communications; new business at CitySavvy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10930&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10930&typeid=1&goto=story The public relations team of Enfatico, the WPP agency created to service the global Dell business, will be merged into Cohn & Wolfes AxiCom, a European technology and telecommunications specialist. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10929&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10929&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick and Kekst and Company were again the two dominant firms in North American mergers and acquisitions activity during 2009, according to year-end rankings produced by mergermarket. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10928&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10928&typeid=1&goto=story Fahlgren, one of the Midwest's top independent communications companies is acquiring Cleveland-based Edward Howard & Co., believed to be the nation's longest-established independent public relations firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10927&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10927&typeid=1&goto=story Internet search engine giant Google has hired Jill Hazelbaker, former communications chief for John McCain's presidential campaign and Michael Bloombergs campaign for re-election as Mayor of New York. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10926&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10926&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide has launched Global Political Strategies, a new international consultancy division that will support businesses, governments and NGOs on geopolitics, global economics and new market opportunities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10925&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10925&typeid=1&goto=story Paul Johnson, former vice chair of Fleishman-Hillard and longtime head of its Washington, D.C., operations, has joined government relations firm National Strategies as president of its public affairs and strategic communications group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10924&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10924&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has added digital communications specialist Joel Johnson as senior vice president, strategic planning and research. Johnson will spearhead efforts to ensure the integration of strategic digital and social media programming into campaign planning. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10923&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10923&typeid=1&goto=story Digital communications expert B.L. Ochman is joining Burson-Marsteller's Proof Digital Media unit as a social media strategist. Ochman, who has been advising corporations on social media strategy since 1995, will report to Proof Digital CEO Jay Leveton. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10922&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10922&typeid=1&goto=story The United Nations Foundation, the charity founded and backed by media mogul Ted Turner, has named Aaron Sherinian as executive director of communications and public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10921&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10921&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners has named healthcare, advocacy and public affairs expert Brian Feldman as a partner in the firm. Feldman is the first non-founder to become a partner in the nine years since the firm began. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10920&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10920&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has been awarded an $866,000 contract by the Nevada Secretary of States office to implement a public outreach program designed to ensure a complete and accurate 2010 Census count in the Silver State. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10919&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10919&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth-owned Rose & Kindel, a California public affairs advocacy firm with offices in Los Angeles and Sacramento, has appointed veteran public affairs executive and journalist Fred Muir as the new CEO for its Los Angeles operations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10918&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10918&typeid=1&goto=story The Washington, D.C., office of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has been awarded a contract to create a mission-focused branding effort for the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10917&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10917&typeid=1&goto=story Donna Vincent Roa, former public affairs director and director of science communication at the Environmental Protection Agency's office of research and development has launched Vincent Roa Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10916&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10916&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group has hired Su-Lin Cheng Nichols as a director in the firm's Washington, D.C., officewhich has almost doubled in size over the past 12 monthsand Greg Jenkins as a director in the firm's San Francisco Office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10915&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10915&typeid=1&goto=story Richard Wade, formerly of the American Hospital Association, is joining APCO as senior counselor; plus new people in new roles at Edelman, M Booth, Cone, Widmeyer, Warschawski, Carmichael Lynch Spong and Capstrat. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10914&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10914&typeid=1&goto=story Warschawski has been named the agency of record for Avon Protection Systems, Shifman Mattress and Concurrent Technologies Corporation, plus new business successes for Morris + King, Greenough Communications and Public Communications Worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10913&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10913&typeid=1&goto=story Mark Hass, who stepped down last year as chief executive of MS&L Worldwide, has joined Edelman as president of Edelman China. Hass brings three decades of experience as a journalist, entrepreneur and communications professional. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10889&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10889&typeid=1&goto=story James McGregor, author of the bestselling book One Billion Customers: Lessons from the Front Lines of Doing Business in China and former chief executive of Dow Jones & Company in China, has joined APCO Worldwide as a senior counselor based in Beijing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10888&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10888&typeid=1&goto=story Fujitsu Asia, a leading provider of IT-based business solutions, has appointed Waggener Edstrom Worldwide as agency of record for the ASEAN region. WE will provide corporate public relations services for Fujitsu Asia . http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10887&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10887&typeid=1&goto=story Cathay Pacific has appointed C.K. Yeung as general manager corporate communication. He succeeds Dane Cheng in the role following the latters move to Sydney to take up the position of general manager Southwest Pacific. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10886&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10886&typeid=1&goto=story New York-based Chamberlain Healthcare Public Relations, an inVentiv Health company, has appointed Mark Cater as managing director of its London office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10885&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10885&typeid=1&goto=story Cow PR, one of the Londons most successful boutique public relations firms, has spun off its digital operation to create a new and independent agency, Rabbit. Rabbit will operate as an independent company from Cow PR, with a separate client base. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10884&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10884&typeid=1&goto=story Bite Communications has won the launch brief for the Virgin Groups first new company in the U.K. for three years: Virgin Digital Help, which has been set up to help British consumers solve digital problems. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10883&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10883&typeid=1&goto=story GlobalHealthPR, a network of public relations agencies around the world dedicated exclusively to health and medical communications worldwide, has exoanded in Eurasia by welcoming OptimumBrand in Turkey and Mediamedic Communications in India. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10882&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10882&typeid=1&goto=story GlobalHealthPR, a network of public relations agencies around the world dedicated exclusively to health and medical communications worldwide, has expanded in Eurasia by welcoming OptimumBrand in Turkey and Mediamedic Communications in India. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10881&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10881&typeid=1&goto=story Nicholas Ashooh, most recently senior vice president of communications at troubled financial services giant American International Group, is joining Alcoa as vice president, corporate affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10880&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10880&typeid=1&goto=story Publicis Groupe advertising agency Leo Burnett has named former Dow Chemical PR chief Patti Temple Rocks executive vice president and global director of corporate communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10879&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10879&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named Kathy Fieweger as a senior vice president of its crisis and issues management practice in Chicago. Fieweger will provide clients with insight into financial communications and legal matters affecting reputation management and enterprise value. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10878&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10878&typeid=1&goto=story Widmeyer Communications has been selected by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to develop a major national campaign to better educate parents, caregivers, consumers and industry on swimming pool and spa safety. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10877&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10877&typeid=1&goto=story Healthcare company Centene Corporation has named Toni Simonetti to the newly created position of senior vice president of public affairs. Simonetti will lead Centene's newly aligned corporate marketing and communications department. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10876&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10876&typeid=1&goto=story Hal Dash, who served as president of California public affairs firm Cerrell Associates for 21 years, has been named chairman and chief executive officer. Executive vice presidents Matt Klink and Lisa Gritzner will each assume the title of president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10875&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10875&typeid=1&goto=story Following a review, Barkley has been named public relations agency of record for the National Honey Board. The assignment includes national media relations, website content development, custom collateral materials, crisis management and consumer research. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10874&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10874&typeid=1&goto=story Linhart Public Relations has hired digital and social media expert Paula Berg. She joins Linhart PR after working as the manager of emerging media for Southwest Airlines, a position she held for three years. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10873&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10873&typeid=1&goto=story Qorvis Communications has added nine new employees, including managing director Cassie Elliot, who joins Qorvis with more than 20 years of copywriting experience in advertising and consumer relationship marketing across multiple client categories. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10872&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10872&typeid=1&goto=story Enzo Villani, the former chief strategy officer and founding member for proxy solicitation giant DF King Worldwide, has launched a strategic consulting and M&A boutique, Villani Advisors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10871&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10871&typeid=1&goto=story French/West/Vaughan has expanded its advertising and digital media capabilities with the hiring of David Watts as creative director, the same position he held at the Catevo Group in Raleigh, and Brendan Ward, an award-winning art director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10870&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10870&typeid=1&goto=story Business-to-business communications specialist Schubert Communications has introduced Newsroom HQ, an online news portal that allows its public relations clients to publish audio, video, photo and text content online without modifying their existing website. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10869&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10869&typeid=1&goto=story Jake Sargent, formerly with the Brunswick Group, is joining APCO Worldwide as a vice president, plus new people in new roles at Zeno Group, Gibbs & Soell and JohnstonWells. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10868&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10868&typeid=1&goto=story CRT/tanaka has been retained as the agency of record by PetNovations for the launch of CatGenie, plus new business successes for The Morris & King Company and Litzky Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10867&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10867&typeid=1&goto=story Which giant multinational stood out as the defining agency of the past decade? http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10866&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10866&typeid=1&goto=story The 00s were a decade of consolidation, but through it all, midsized independent and specialist firms have continued to flourishindeed, to outperform the giant multinationals in many respects. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10865&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10865&typeid=1&goto=story Who took over as head of his company's corporate communications department in 2002 and over the remainder of the decade emerged as a prototype for the public relations professional of the future http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10864&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10864&typeid=1&goto=story Who met one of the biggest management challenges of the decade and emerged as the leader of a world-class global public relations brand? http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10863&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10863&typeid=1&goto=story Global technology public relations agency Lewis PR is to create a new consumer-focused division, which will represent high-profile brands around the world, with an initial focus on premium travel brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10860&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10860&typeid=1&goto=story Brands2Life has been hired by global supply chain standards body, GS1 U.K. as its retained agency following a competitive pitch. Brands2Lifes remit is to raise awareness of the value of supply chain standards through high-impact, issues-driven campaigns http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10859&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10859&typeid=1&goto=story Volkswagen Group of America has promoted Anna-Maria Schneider to vice president, industry and government relations and named Jill Bratina as a vice president, Volkswagen Group corporate communications and Volkswagen brand communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10858&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10858&typeid=1&goto=story Gary Sheffer has been promoted to vice president of communications and public affairs at GE. Sheffer oversees external and internal communications across GE globally and provides strategic communications and public affairs advice to GE executives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10857&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10857&typeid=1&goto=story General Motors has realigned its government relations and public policy team with the appointment of former AT&T executives John Montford as a senior advisor to chairman and CEO Edward Whitacre and Robert Ferguson as vice president of government relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10856&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10856&typeid=1&goto=story Guernsey's, the three-decade-old auction house, has retained Rubenstein Public Relations to represent its auction on behalf of Tavern on the Green. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10855&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10855&typeid=1&goto=story NCR Corporation has named Richard Bravman its chief marketing officer and vice president of corporate development, a new position reporting to executive vice president John Bruno. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10854&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10854&typeid=1&goto=story Veteran newspaperman Tom York, most recently editor of the San Diego Business Journal, is relaunching his marketing and media practice under the name Tom York Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10853&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10853&typeid=1&goto=story Asbury Automotive Group, one of the largest automotive retail and service companies in the U.S., has named Porter Novelli as its public relations agency of record. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10852&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10852&typeid=1&goto=story California public affairs firm Englander & Associates has changed its name to Englander Knabe & Allen, with Matt Knabe and Marcus Allen becoming equity partners in the firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10851&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10851&typeid=1&goto=story Lockheed Martin Corporation has named Joseph LaMarca vice president, communications, for its aeronautics business area, plus new people in new roles at the National Restaurant Association and Coventry Health Care. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10850&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10850&typeid=1&goto=story Ruder Finn has won the King Pharmaceuticals public relations account, plus new business successes for Stanton Public Relations & Marketing, Robin Leedy & Associates, Maccabee Group, and Zapwater Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10849&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10849&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy & Mather has named Steve Dahllof, managing director of Ogilvy PR's global strategy and planning group, as regional chief executive of Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific, succeeding Christopher Graves. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10848&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10848&typeid=1&goto=story Shijun Ma has joined Eastwei Shanghai as director, supporting development of the corporate practice, plus new business for Blue Lotus and a new hire at Waggener Edstrom. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10847&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10847&typeid=1&goto=story Hotwire has made three appointments to manage the company in the U.K. and internationally, naming Brendon Craigie managing director, U.K.; Andy West as managing director, international; and Alex MacLaverty as managing director of Hotwires technology division in the U.K. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10846&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10846&typeid=1&goto=story Anna Zelentsova, an expert in corporate public affairs and corporate social responsibility, has joined The PBN Company as senior public policy counselor. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10845&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10845&typeid=1&goto=story Marc-Sven Kopka is joining online business network XING as vice president corporate communications, plus a new member for the IPREX network and a new account for Barrett Dixon Bell. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10844&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10844&typeid=1&goto=story Interpublic-owned public relations and entertainment marketing firms BNC (formerly Bragman Nyman Cafarelli) and PMK/HBH have agreed to merge. The newly combined firm, which will begin operations in January with offices in Los Angeles and New York, will be known as PMK·BNC. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10843&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10843&typeid=1&goto=story Samsungs information technology division has selected Allison & Partners as its public relations agency of record. The firm will partner with Samsung to market products including notebook PCs, LCD monitors, laser printers and copiers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10842&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10842&typeid=1&goto=story Drawing on the research background and experience of chef executive Mark Penn, Burson-Marsteller has adopted a new, data-focused approach to communications that the firm calls Evidenced-Based Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10841&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10841&typeid=1&goto=story Jim Wiseman, currently vice president of external affairs at Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, has been promoted to group vice president of corporate communications at Toyota Motor North America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10840&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10840&typeid=1&goto=story San Francisco-based LaunchSquad has named technology public relations veteran Todd Barrish as managing director of its New York operations. In his new role, Barish is responsible for day-to-day operational management as well as strategic client counsel. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10839&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10839&typeid=1&goto=story Doug Petkus, the former head of communications for pharmaceutical giant Wyeth, who has more than 30 years experience in corporate, agency and editorial environments, has formed Petkus Communications Consultants. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10838&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10838&typeid=1&goto=story The Washington, D.C., office of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has been named agency of record for the United Service Organizations and charged with the development of a signature campaign for the organization. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10837&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10837&typeid=1&goto=story William Griffin, a lawyer and former journalist who served as press secretary and chief of staff for Chicago Mayor Jane Byrne, will join Hill & Knowlton as senior vice president and practice leader for its Midwest public affairs operations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10836&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10836&typeid=1&goto=story OAKLANDThe Placemaking Group, a Bay Area public relations, marketing and web design company, has launched a new office in Sacramento and named Jan Burch to the role of vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10835&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10835&typeid=1&goto=story United Educators, a leading provider of risk management and liability insurance to educational institutions, has named Widmeyer Communications as an approved provider of crisis communications consulting to eligible UE members. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10833&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10833&typeid=1&goto=story King Pharmaceuticals has hired Ruder Finn after a competitive pitch, plus new business successes for Peppercom, Burditch Marketing Communications, Warner Communications, JS2, Topaz Partners, Risdall Marketing Group, and Krupp Kommunications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10832&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10832&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has promoted Rakhee Vithlani, currently head of MCC, the firms specialist multicultural communications practice, to the additional role of head of government and public sector campaigns in an attempt to strengthen its public sector credentials. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10810&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10810&typeid=1&goto=story Fishburn Hedges has named Paul Farrow as a director in its financial practice, plus new business for Citigate Dewe Rogerson, Lewis PR, Firefly, and Hotwire. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10809&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10809&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L Group has been awarded a global communications mandate to help the World Gold Council stimulate and sustain demand for gold. Led out of London by corporate and financial communications firm Capital MS&L, the account will draw on the knowledge and resources of the Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10808&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10808&typeid=1&goto=story Zócalo Group, the word-of-mouth specialist consultancy that operates as a subsidiary of Ketchum, has launched the created Recommendation Index, designed to provide marketers with insight into which brands are most recommended. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10807&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10807&typeid=1&goto=story Gary Pinkham, currently head of global investor and analyst relations, has been appointed head of corporate affairs and communications for telecommunications company Ericsson in North America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10806&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10806&typeid=1&goto=story The 360° Digital Influence practice at Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has launched Insider Circle, a new influencer activation platform that allows brands to build and scale relationships with key brand influencers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10805&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10805&typeid=1&goto=story The Estée Lauder Companies has promoted Bari Seiden to vice president, global corporate communications. In her new role, Seiden will report to Alexandra Trower, executive vice president, global communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10804&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10804&typeid=1&goto=story Llorente & Cuenca, perhaps the largest public relations firm in the Spanish-speaking world, has formed a strategic alliance with EDF Communications of Miami, a firm founded by Erich de la Fuente, to improve its ability to service U.S. clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10803&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10803&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has become the nations first healthcare communications agency in the U.S. to be fully trained and certified in regulatory compliance for public relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10802&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10802&typeid=1&goto=story BAE Systems has appointed John Suttle as senior vice president of corporate communications. Suttle joins the BAE Systems leadership team reporting directly to Linda Hudson, president and CEO of BAE Systems, and will lead communications for the defense and aerospace company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10801&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10801&typeid=1&goto=story MGH Communication Management, a public relations firm based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has been elected as a partner in IPREX, the worldwide corporation of independent public relations and communication firms. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10800&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10800&typeid=1&goto=story Affect Strategies, a public relations and social media firm specializing in technology, has added three new clients: Esprida Corporation, INTTRA and A-List Education. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10799&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10799&typeid=1&goto=story The Worldcom Public Relations Group has elected a new 11-member board, chaired by Stefan Pollack, a ten-year partner in the Worldcom organization and president of Los Angeles-based firm The Pollack PR Marketing Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10798&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10798&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has hired David Armano as a senior vice president in its digital practice, plus new people in new roles at Coyne Public Relations, Nancy J. Friedman Public Relations, and Echo Media Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10797&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10797&typeid=1&goto=story Lithium Technologies has selected Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide as its global PR agency of record, plus new business successes for The Bohle Company, 104 West Partners, and j. simms agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10796&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10796&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick and Hill & Knowlton were the big winners in our first Asia-Pacific SABRE (Superior Achievement in Branding and Reputation) Awards competition. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10795&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10795&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has partnered with the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) to launch two reports in China ahead of World AIDS Day. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10794&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10794&typeid=1&goto=story Kreab Gavin Anderson is opening an office in Perth, Western Australia, plus a new president for IPREX in the Asia-Pacific and a new business win for Weber Shandwick in Shanghai. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10793&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10793&typeid=1&goto=story Paul Bell, currently chief executive of Bell Pottinger Sans Frontières, the geopolitical unit of U.K. holding company Chime, has been appointed chief executive of the Bell Pottinger Group, Chimes public relations division. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10792&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10792&typeid=1&goto=story Fishburn Hedges Group has launched a new digital creative agency, Brew, and announced two senior appointments to lead the new business. Brew is designed to bring together digital strategy and creative, user experience, and public relations expertise. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10791&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10791&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has strengthened its U.K. public affairs practice with the promotion of Conservative Central Office veteran Tara Hamilton-Miller to vice chair, public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10790&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10790&typeid=1&goto=story Norwegian public relations firm Argument has changed its name to Axxept and has opened a subsidiary in Brussels, providing EU affairs consultancy under the Axxept.eu name. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10789&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10789&typeid=1&goto=story European corporate affairs consultancy Interel has appointed Jean-Philippe Monod as associate director within its growing European Affairs practice. Monod will focus on competition and trade matters working horizontally across the client portfolio. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10788&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10788&typeid=1&goto=story Roderick Abbott, former deputy director-general of the World Trade Organization, has joined APCO Worldwides Brussels office as a senior counselor. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10787&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10787&typeid=1&goto=story Christophe Lecureuil has joined The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition as manager of communications, plus new people in new roles at GolinHarris, MS&L, Hannover Re, College Hill and ReadSoft; new business for Good Relations, Citigate Dewe Rogerson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10786&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10786&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, the global public relations and healthcare communications group, is expanding its U.S. presence and its public relations operations with the acquisition of Dutko Worldwide, a Washington, D.C., public policy firm, for an initial consideration of $33.6 million. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10785&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10785&typeid=1&goto=story Donald Foley, a longtime Democratic strategist, is joining Ketchum's Washington, D.C., office as director, North American public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10784&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10784&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has appointed Chad Latz as president of its global digital practice. Latz will help lead the strategic development and growth of the agencys worldwide digital and social media practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10783&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10783&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has formed a strategic partnership with Winning Strategies, a political and public affairs consultancy based in Washington, D.C. The firms plan to partner on client engagements in several areas including multicultural communications and womens issues and outreach. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10782&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10782&typeid=1&goto=story Drug store chain Walgreens has named Charles Greener to the new position of vice president of corporate affairs and communications. Greener joins Walgreens from Fannie Mae in Washington, D.C., where he served as chief communications and marketing officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10781&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10781&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli today announced a partnership with the Copenhagen Climate Council to create a massive, worldwide social media effort to raise support for, and awareness of, the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10780&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10780&typeid=1&goto=story Noble, an independent full-service advertising and communications agency headquartered in Springfield, Mo., has named Andy Hopson as president of its Chicago office. Hopson reports to agency founder, chairman and CEO Bob Noble. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10779&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10779&typeid=1&goto=story Alistair McLeish, best known as the founder and former chairman of Eastern European public relations and public affairs consultancy Mmd has launched Speyside Corporate Relations, a corporate, financial and government relations consultancy focusing on Latin America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10778&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10778&typeid=1&goto=story Willis Group Holdings, the global insurance broker, has named Joshua King senior vice president, group marketing and communications, responsible for external, internal and executive communications, brand and reputation management, and more. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10777&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10777&typeid=1&goto=story Item Comunicação, a Brazilian public relations, has been elected a partner in IPREX, the global corporation of independent public relations and communication firms. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10776&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10776&typeid=1&goto=story Public Relations Global Network, an international network of independent public relations firms, has added new members in Germany and Canada. The network now numbers 40 independently-owned public relations agencies on six continents. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10775&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10775&typeid=1&goto=story Public Relations Global Network, an international network of independent public relations firms, has added new members in Germany and Canada. The network now numbers 40 independently-owned public relations agencies on six continents. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10774&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10774&typeid=1&goto=story GG Johnston, who took over as president and chief executive of JohnstonWells in March, is stepping down from her position. Agency founderand GGs motherGwinavere Johnston will step back into her former role as president and CEO. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10773&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10773&typeid=1&goto=story Marketing communications firm Duffy & Shanley has been hired by Staples, the worlds largest office products company, to manage its 2009 public relations efforts for the upcoming holiday shopping season. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10772&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10772&typeid=1&goto=story Chicago-based technology public relations firm Tech Image has named Dennis Collins as its new president. Collins replaces founder and CEO Mike Nikolich, who will become chief marketing officer at parent company SmithBucklin. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10771&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10771&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has added two senior staff members to its New York office: Pamela Chait joins as vice president of healthcare and Nicole Lowe joins as vice president of consumer marketing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10770&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10770&typeid=1&goto=story Kwittken & Company has been selected by DSM Biomedical, part of the global life sciences and materials sciences company Royal DSM, to raise awareness of its brand through a national media relations campaign. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10769&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10769&typeid=1&goto=story Fast-growing New Jersey independent Beckerman has hired Sharla Sookdeo as director in its real estate practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10768&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10768&typeid=1&goto=story The Miami International Film Festival has selected Rogers & Cowan as its agency of record. The entertainment specialist will launch and maintain a comprehensive publicity campaign to support the 2010 festival. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10767&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10767&typeid=1&goto=story Rasky Baerlein Strategic Communications has promoted Melissa Monahan to senior vice president of the education, healthcare and nonprofit practice group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10766&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10766&typeid=1&goto=story The Timken Company has named Kari Groh to the position of vice president, communications and public relations, plus new people in new roles at CH Energy Group and Southern Wine & Spirits of America. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10765&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10765&typeid=1&goto=story Anna Morrison has been named social media specialist at Carmichael Lynch Spong, plus new people in new roles at MWW Group, Widmeyer Communications, Weber Shandwick, Crosby-Volmer,Ackerman PR and Capstrat. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10764&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10764&typeid=1&goto=story Maloney & Fox has been named agency of record for Tupperware Brands Corporation, plus new business successes for The Rogers Group, MWW Group, Affect Strategies, The Bohle Company, Kohnstamm Communications, rbb Public Relations, and j simms agency. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10763&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10763&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard and Weber Shandwick lead the way with 19 finalists each in our inaugural Asia-Pacific SABRE (Superior Achievement in Branding and Reputation) Awards competition, which attracted close to 400 entries from across the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10762&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10762&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard and Weber Shandwick lead the way with 19 finalists each in our inaugural Asia-Pacific SABRE (Superior Achievement in Branding and Reputation) Awards competition, which attracted close to 400 entries from across the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10757&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10757&typeid=1&goto=story Huntsworth, parent company of Citigate, Grayling, and Red Consultancy public relations brands, says the new business environment for both its public relations and Huntsworth Health divisions has shown steady and incremental improvements. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10756&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10756&typeid=1&goto=story Chris Steel, former head of press and public relations for IBM U.K., is joining APCO Worldwide as an associate director in the London office. He brings experience in managing media relations, crisis management and issues-based communication. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10755&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10755&typeid=1&goto=story Bite Communications has been appointed by Harman Consumer International to manage and deliver PR programs across Europe for three of the companys high-end consumer electronics brands: JBL, AKG and Harman Kardon. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10754&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10754&typeid=1&goto=story Sage Holdings, the global financial communications and stakeholder management company that owns public relations firms such as M: Communications in London and Hallvarsson & Halvarsson in Sweden, has rebranded as DF King Worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10753&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10753&typeid=1&goto=story Friends Provident, a leading life and pensions company, has chosen Cohn & Wolfe to boost its profile in consumer and personal finance media in 2010. Cohn & Wolfe emerged victorious following a competitive pitch. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10752&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10752&typeid=1&goto=story Lippe Taylor Brand Communications, best known for its work in lifestyle public relations and marketing to women, has named Jim Joseph as president and partner, expanding its range of services to include fully integrated marketing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10751&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10751&typeid=1&goto=story Crocs, maker of the distinctive and popular line of footwear, has named marketing and communications firm Cramer-Krasselt as its global agency of record, the first time that the company has consolidated all of its advertising, media, digital and public relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10750&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10750&typeid=1&goto=story Five crisis communications firms from major markets around the world have launched a new network designed to provide firms with international crisis and litigation support: the Crisis & Litigation Communicators' Alliance. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10749&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10749&typeid=1&goto=story Five crisis communications firms from major markets around the world have launched a new network designed to provide firms with international crisis and litigation support: the Crisis & Litigation Communicators' Alliance. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10748&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10748&typeid=1&goto=story The Hotel Council of San Francisco has retained Sam Singer, president of Bay Area public affairs and crisis communications specialist Singer Associates, to act as a spokesman for the trade group as it calls for an end to a series of rolling strikes. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10747&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10747&typeid=1&goto=story TravelClick, a leader in hotel e-commerce solutions with a customer base of 15,000 hotels in 140 countries, has selected GolinHarris as its public relations agency of record to lead its business-to-business and corporate communications initiatives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10746&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10746&typeid=1&goto=story Gary Ginsberg, executive vice president of global marketing and corporate affairs at News Corporation, will be leaving the company at the end of the year. Ginsberg will remain as a consultant to Rupert Murdoch, chairman and CEO of News Corporation. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10745&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10745&typeid=1&goto=story Goodman Media International has added five new publishing-related clients, including the Childrens Book Council for publicity in connection with the January 2010 appointment of the nations second National Ambassador for Young Peoples Literature. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10744&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10744&typeid=1&goto=story Tim Weinheimer, former vice president and managing director at Brunner Digital, and Rebecca McCuiston, former senior vice president of consumer marketing at Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide, have joined the Washington, D.C., office of Ketchum. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10743&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10743&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has launched WE twendz pro, a Twitter influence analytics service that helps companies measure brand impact and engage audiences on Twitter. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10742&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10742&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has added Stan Greenberg, co-founder of Greenberg Quinlan Rosner and former consultant to several presidential and congressional campaigns, international leaders and corporate clients, as senior consultant in the firms public affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10741&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10741&typeid=1&goto=story Trevelino/Keller Communications Group, an Atlanta-based public relations, social media and brand communications firm, has launched Free-Net, a communications network that supports freelance professionals in public relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10740&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10740&typeid=1&goto=story Edge Legal Marketing, a Minneapolis-based marketing and public relations firm serving the needs of companies targeting the legal market, has formed a strategic partnership with LJS, a public relations agency specializing in mainstream media placement. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10739&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10739&typeid=1&goto=story Michael Fernandez, vice president of public affairs for State Farm Insurance, and Matthew Gonring, consultant at Gagen MacDonald, have been re-elected co-chairs of the Institute for Public Relations board of trustees. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10738&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10738&typeid=1&goto=story DKC has been retained as public relations partner by Theater of War Productions, plus new accounts for Pollack PR Marketing, Linhart PR, French/West/Vaughan, JS2 Communications, Echo Media, and Maroon PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10737&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10737&typeid=1&goto=story Publicis Groupe has concluded a restructuring its public relations operations with the launch of the MS&L Group, which will bring together the resources that currently operate under the MS&L Worldwide, Publicis Consultants Worldwide, JKL and several other brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10736&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10736&typeid=1&goto=story Publicis Groupe has concluded a restructuring its public relations operations with the launch of the MS&L Group, which will bring together the resources that currently operate under the MS&L Worldwide, Publicis Consultants Worldwide, JKL, and more. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10735&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10735&typeid=1&goto=story Consumers use much more electronic communication than 10, five and even one year ago, and digital socialization has become a part of their daily lives, according to new research from Euro RSCG Life presented at the United States Food & Drug Administration hearing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10733&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10733&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has formed a partnership with the China International Public Relations Association to encourage professional development of communications and public relations professors in China. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10732&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10732&typeid=1&goto=story Chime Communications has expanded its financial communications capabilities via an agreement with leading independent Pelham Public Relations, which will be merged with its Bell Pottinger Corporate & Financial business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10731&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10731&typeid=1&goto=story Lewis has added three significant hires in its U.K. headquarters to support expansion plans. Julie Walsh joins Lewis as account director and will be responsible for overseeing accounts such as IBM Cognos Software, Software AG and Getronics. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10730&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10730&typeid=1&goto=story Public affairs agency veterans Tad Segal and Joe Clayton have launched Outreach Strategies, a full-service firm focused on advocacy communications, issues management, stakeholder engagement and media relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10729&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10729&typeid=1&goto=story Beth Harris, former executive director of marketing for Disney ABC Television Groups business development and digital media division, has been appointed senior vice president, director of entertainment for Ketchum Sports & Entertainment. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10728&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10728&typeid=1&goto=story Porter Novelli has formed a strategic alliance with Epiphany, a New York City-based influencer marketing and public relations agency that works with clients such as Diageo, Pepsico, Procter & Gamble, and Timberland, offering non-traditional marketing and public relations solutions. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10727&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10727&typeid=1&goto=story Playtex Products, a unit of Energizer Holdings, has selected GolinHarris as its public relations agency of record for North America. The agency will provide strategic counsel and support in the areas of marketing communications, social media and crisis communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10726&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10726&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has hired Dolly Judge as senior vice president and director of healthcare policy. Judge was most recently at Pfizer where she spent 10 years in the D.C. office as the vice president, federal government relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10725&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10725&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has been hired by furniture retailer Raymour & Flanigan to spearhead a multi-layered communication initiative that will include media relations outreach and social media activities to elevate brand awareness. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10724&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10724&typeid=1&goto=story Howard Gantman has been named vice president, corporate communications, at the Motion Picture Association of America. He joined the MPAA in August as senior communications consultant. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10723&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10723&typeid=1&goto=story The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, best known as the organization behind the Emmy Awards, and the Television Academy Foundation have hired two public relations firms to represent them: http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10722&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10722&typeid=1&goto=story Dow Jones & Company has launched Dow Jones Media Relations Manager, a news-enabled media database and contact management tool that helps communications professionals pinpoint and engage journalists and bloggers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10721&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10721&typeid=1&goto=story Elizabeth Kucinich is joining the staff of the nonprofit Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine as director of public affairs, plus new people in new roles at J Vineyards & Winery and Qualcomm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10720&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10720&typeid=1&goto=story The Halo Group, a Manhattan-based marketing communications and branding agency, has named Joanna Lauren Goldstein as director of public relations, plus new people in new roles at Flowers Communications Group and Northlich. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10719&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10719&typeid=1&goto=story Fredericks of Hollywood Group, the intimate apparel retail company, has selected KCSA Strategic Communications as its investor relations agency of record, plus new business for French/West/Vaughan, Pollack PR Marketing Group and Maroon PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10718&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10718&typeid=1&goto=story Facebook is the dominant social network on which consumer-focused companies maintain one or more profiles, cited by 83 percent of respondents versus 45 percent for Twitter. Business-to-business companies, however, maintain a presence on both platforms. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10646&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10646&typeid=1&goto=story The Wall Street Journal has selected Ketchum Pleon as its agency partner to develop communications strategy and media relations for the Journals Future of Finance Initiative, a summit designed to ensure that expert voices are heard. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10642&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10642&typeid=1&goto=story U.K.-based technology public relations specialist Lewis PR 100 percent of Leads United, one of the largest independent public relations firms in the Belgian market. The company will continue to operate under its own brand. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10641&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10641&typeid=1&goto=story Liam FitzPatrick has re-joined the Bell Pottinger Group to help develop a new internal communications practice. He left Bell Pottinger eight years ago to become global head of internal communications for Marconi. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10640&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10640&typeid=1&goto=story Alterian, a FTSE-listed software company and provider of engagement software for marketers, has hired Bite Communications to promote its services to senior marketers and business leaders in the U.K. and U.S. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10639&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10639&typeid=1&goto=story College Hill has invested in Policy Action, a public affairs consultancy in Brussels; plus new people in new roles at LVMH, JKL and Waggener Edstrom; new business for Citigate Dewe Rogerson. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10638&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10638&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has created a co-marketing and product development alliance with evolve24, a business analytics and research firm with capabilities in the measurement of perception, reputation and risk. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10637&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10637&typeid=1&goto=story Don Middleberg, chief executive of Middleberg Communications, and Jim Dowd, CEO of The Dowd Agency, are merging their two firms. The new full-service agency will operate as Middleberg Communications, with The Dowd Agency as its consumer division. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10636&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10636&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners has added two online travel brands to its consumer/hospitality practice: airfare meta-search engine Fly.com and things to do search engine Goby. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10635&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10635&typeid=1&goto=story Len Biegel, founder and chief executive of crisis management specialist The Biegel Group, has been named a senior advisor to Fleishman-Hillard International Communications in addition to his role with his own firm. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10634&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10634&typeid=1&goto=story P.J. Clarkes, a venerable New York restaurant with three locations across Manhattan, has hired DKC as its agency of record to solidify its status in-market while broadening its reach to new audiences in different cities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10633&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10633&typeid=1&goto=story RF|Binder Partners has been engaged by Competitive Technologies (CTT) to help roll out and promote its Calmare Therapy Treatment, an FDA-approved, non-invasive pain management medical device for treating high-intensity oncologic and neuropathic pain. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10632&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10632&typeid=1&goto=story CRT/tanaka has been selected to provide public relations counsel for the Virginia Community College Systems Great Expectations program. CRT/tanaka has been engaged to support Great Expectations with branding, donor awareness and the development of an Online Resource Center. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10631&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10631&typeid=1&goto=story Linhart Public Relations has formed a pro-bono partnership with National Safe Place; plus new business wins for Bitner Goodman, The Investor Relations Company, JS2 Communications, and Stern & Company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10630&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10630&typeid=1&goto=story Next Fifteen subsidiary Bite Communications has completed the acquisition of a majority share of the Upstream Asia network of Asia-Pacific public relations operation, originally reported on this site last month.. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10629&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10629&typeid=1&goto=story Global technology public relations firm Lewis has appointed Paul Charles, currently director of communications for Virgin Atlantic, to the new role of chief operating officer. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10624&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10624&typeid=1&goto=story The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has selected Hill & Knowlton as official media sponsor for the UN Conference on Climate Change, COP15, to be held in Copenhagen in December. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10623&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10623&typeid=1&goto=story Nicholine Hayward has joined the Bell Pottinger Group as planning director, plus a new division at Penrose Financial, new business for City Savvy and Waggener Edstromg Worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10622&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10622&typeid=1&goto=story Resources Connection, a professional services firm best known for its work in change management, has acquired Los Angeles-based strategic communications firm Sitrick and Company and restructuring specialist Brincko Associates. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10621&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10621&typeid=1&goto=story WPP Groupparent of Burson-Marsteller, Cohn & Wolfe, Hill & Knowlton, Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide and numerous smaller PR brandssaw its public relations and public affairs revenues decline by 8.5 percent on a like-for-like basis. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10620&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10620&typeid=1&goto=story The Washington, D.C. office of Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has been awarded a two-year contract from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention to provide communications support for the National Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10619&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10619&typeid=1&goto=story The Dow Chemical Company has been named Matt Davis vice president of global public affairs. In his new role, Davis will oversee external and internal communications, media relations, corporate giving and citizenship and geographic and site public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10618&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10618&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group has hired senior Congressional staffer Anthony Coley as a director in its Washington D.C. office. Coley most recently served as communications director to the late-Senator Edward Kennedy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10617&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10617&typeid=1&goto=story The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has selected Kate James as its chief communications officer. James will join the foundation from Citibank, where she was senior vice president for global corporate communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10616&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10616&typeid=1&goto=story Yale University has appointed Thomas Mattia, a veteran of senir roles at Coca-Cola and EDS with an international public affairs, communications and social responsibility background, as its chief communications officer and special advisor to president Richard Levin. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10615&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10615&typeid=1&goto=story Fleishman-Hillard International Communications has appointed Nancy Seliger to the newly created position of executive vice president and senior partner, global client relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10614&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10614&typeid=1&goto=story Moody's Corporation has promoted Anthony Mirenda to vice president, global communications for the corporation, responsible for all aspects of Moodys corporate, ratings and internal communications activities worldwide. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10613&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10613&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has promoted Janet Helm to chief food and nutrition strategist for North America. In this new position Helm, a 15-year Weber Shandwick Chicago veteran, will be focused on increasing the firms visibility within the food and nutrition community. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10612&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10612&typeid=1&goto=story The Council of Public Relations Firms has named Margery Kraus, president and CEO of APCO Worldwide, as new chair of the Council`s board. Kraus founded APCO in 1984 and led a management buyout of the agency in 2004. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10611&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10611&typeid=1&goto=story Imre, a full-service marketing agency, has been named public relations agency of record for Black & Decker and its family of brands, including Black & Decker, DeWalt, Delta and Porter-Cable. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10610&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10610&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has added Jean-Louis Robadey as vice president of global development in its social innovation practice, based in the Washington, D.C., office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10609&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10609&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has launched MWW Pulse, which brings together a panel of online thought leaders focused on creating an online conversation and providing new insights relevant to critical industries and business categories. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10608&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10608&typeid=1&goto=story Millennium Hotels & Resorts has engaged 5W Public Relations as PR agency of record for all 15 Millennium hotel and resort properties in the United States. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10607&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10607&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has promoted Joseph Cohen to group vice president, consumer lifestyle marketing and hired Paul Aronsohn as a vice president; plus new people in new roles at Weber Shandwick, Beckerman. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10606&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10606&typeid=1&goto=story Sahara Media, a media and technology company, has selected Edelman as public and investor relations agency of record; plus news business for Blaze and Wilson Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10605&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10605&typeid=1&goto=story Almost four out of five (78 percent) new media users interact with companies or brands via new media sites and tools, an increase of 32 percent from 2008 (59 percent). And, the frequency of interaction is increasing. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10604&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10604&typeid=1&goto=story Grayling, the international Huntsworth Group agency created this summer by the merger of Trimedia, Grayling and Mmd, expanded its Central and Eastern European footprint with the opening of a new office in the republic of Belarus. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10600&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10600&typeid=1&goto=story Luke Fredberg has been named director of international corporate communications for CBS Corporation, based in the London offices of CBS Interactive. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10599&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10599&typeid=1&goto=story Following the appointment of Dave Scott as new global communications director, Psion, the global mobile computing company, has appointed Fishburn Hedges to a wide-ranging corporate reputation management brief. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10598&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10598&typeid=1&goto=story Bell Pottinger Public Affairs has been retained by international coach operator Eurolines to advise on its engagement with EU institutions, plus new business at Penrose and Hotwire. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10597&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10597&typeid=1&goto=story Allison & Partners is opening a Seattle office, its ninth office and first location in the Pacific Northwest. The firm has added digital media and entertainment public relations expert Tom Biro to its senior leadership team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10596&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10596&typeid=1&goto=story Geoff Livingston, senior vice president of social media at CRT/tanaka, whose Washington, D.C., firm was acquired by the Richmond-based agency earlier this year., will be leaving the agency to launch a new business venture. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10595&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10595&typeid=1&goto=story Next Fifteen Communications Group, parent of Text 100, Bite Communications and several other technology and consumer focused public relations brands, has announced a revenue increase of 3.6 percent for the year ended July 31, 2009. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10594&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10594&typeid=1&goto=story Ketchum Pleon has appointed Patrick Paddy Blewer as associate director, U.K. corporate and public affairs. Blewer will advise the agencys global energy clients, as well as supporting various clients financial communications needs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10593&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10593&typeid=1&goto=story Next Fifteen Communications Group, parent of Text 100, Bite Communications and several other technology and consumer focused public relations brands, has announced a revenue increase of 3.6 percent for the year ended July 31, 2009. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10592&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10592&typeid=1&goto=story New York public relations firm Kaplow has added a technology and emerging media group and named Chaim Haas, an expert in technology and social media, as its head. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10591&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10591&typeid=1&goto=story Waggener Edstrom Worldwide has added Marshall Phelps, recently retired corporate vice president for IP policy and strategy at Microsoft, and Ken Rietz, veteran of senior public affairs and communications roles at Burson-Marsteller, to its global public affairs advisory council. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10590&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10590&typeid=1&goto=story KCSA Strategic Communications has acquired TanenPR, a Boston-based firm that specializes in public relations services for business to business, professional services and consumer-focused companies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10589&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10589&typeid=1&goto=story Capstrat has hired Jim Hazen as analytics director, plus new people in new roles at Widmeyer Communications and Lighthouse Consulting Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10588&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10588&typeid=1&goto=story Kikkoman, a leading producer of soy sauce and other Asian-style sauces, has called on The Rogers Groups digital expertise; plus new business for Beckerman, PAN Communications, Linhart PR, Stanton PR & Marketing, Carbiner Communications, Zapwater, Loving + Company and RFPR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10587&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10587&typeid=1&goto=story FD has appointed Jack Zhang to establish a public affairs practice in the China market. Zhang, a specialist in PRC government relations, will join FD as a vice president in the companys Beijing office. He was previously with Manning Selvage & Lee. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10584&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10584&typeid=1&goto=story Bell Pottinger Public Affairs has appointed Tim Collins as its new managing director. He replaces David Sowells, who is to take up a new role in Washington, D.C., working for Bell Pottinger USA. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10583&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10583&typeid=1&goto=story Professional services PR consultancy Spada has named Alex Kane managing director, heading the consultancys built environment practice as well as managing the consultancys team. In addition, Beth Farrer joins the firms board as a director. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10582&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10582&typeid=1&goto=story Lena Smedsaas, a commentator on domestic politics at Swedens TV4, will join JKL as a consultant, plus new people at Waggener Edstrom, new business at CitySavvy and Bell Pottinger Health. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10581&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10581&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has promoted Nathan Friedman to managing director of its Chicago office, responsible for managing client service, financial oversight and personnel development. Mike Hatcliffe, will return to his original role as head of the agencys U.S. corporate practice http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10580&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10580&typeid=1&goto=story Echo Research has launched a new online media analysis system, Echo Sonar. Echo Sonar provides access to publications around the world combined with an advanced analytic platform. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10579&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10579&typeid=1&goto=story Alcoa has appointed Daniel Cruise as vice president for public and government affairs. He will oversee all global, national, state and local governmental and regulatory affairs and other public matters for the company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10578&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10578&typeid=1&goto=story Following the appointment earlier this month of Neil Matheson as chief executive, Huntsworth Health is reorganizing its worldwide operations to establish four distinct but integrated areas of expertise. The public relations offering will now operate under one brand identity, Tonic Life Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10577&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10577&typeid=1&goto=story Following the appointment earlier this month of Neil Matheson as chief executive, Huntsworth Health is reorganizing its worldwide operations to establish four distinct but integrated areas of expertise. The public relations offering will now operate under one brand identity, Tonic Life Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10576&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10576&typeid=1&goto=story Razorfish, one of the worlds largest digital agencies, has hired Concept Communications as agency of record to implement a public relations program that enhances Razorfishs market leadership position. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10575&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10575&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has formed a strategic partnership with fellow WPP agency and entertainment marketing specialist B|W|R Public Relations. The firms have already collaborated on consumer marketing projects for existing clients and some new business initiatives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10573&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10573&typeid=1&goto=story Marketing communications holding company MDC Partners has named Katie Kempner senior vice president, corporate communications. In her new role, Kempner will oversee communications strategies for MDC, and provide strategic communications counsel to all MDC Partners agencies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10572&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10572&typeid=1&goto=story The Pulmonary Hypertension Association has hired Environics Communications to provide national and local grassroots public relations to help raise awareness of this rare blood vessel disorder. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10571&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10571&typeid=1&goto=story Google has appointed Mistique Cano as its new manager of global communications and public affairs, plus new people in new positions at Owens-Illinois, Telecentris, and Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Minnesota. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10570&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10570&typeid=1&goto=story The Morris + King Company has been retained by LBi IconNicholson U.S., plus new business for S3, K/F Communications, Krupp Kommunikations, Trylon SMR and JS2 Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10569&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10569&typeid=1&goto=story Lord Chadlingtons Huntsworth Groupparent to Citigate, Grayling and Trimedia among other international PR brandsand Bell Pottinger parent Chime Communications are in talks to acquire technology public relations holding company Next Fifteen. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10568&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10568&typeid=1&goto=story APCO Worldwide is launching APCO Pathfinder, a new proprietary service designed to enhance product launches and market entries by anticipating the full stakeholder landscape most critical to increased product sales. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10567&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10567&typeid=1&goto=story ASAE (The American Society of Association Executives) and The Center for Association Leadership has launched a communications campaign intended to explain how associations across all industry sectors and in every state can harness the power of their members. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10566&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10566&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has appointed Holly Feraci as vice president for its government affairs practice. Feraci was most recently the director of healthcare and governmental affairs in Greenberg Traurigs Washington office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10565&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10565&typeid=1&goto=story The American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity has named Lisa Camooso Miller as vice president of media relations. Miller will lead ACCCE's national media and inside the beltway efforts to support the coalition's primary policy objectives. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10564&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10564&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has named Thomas Graham as president of the agency's Austin office and a member of the agency's global board. In his new role, Graham will manage day-to-day operations, client service and business development. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10563&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10563&typeid=1&goto=story Sloane & Company has been retained to support the communications effort for the Ad Hoc Committee of GM Bondholders, which is concerned over the automakers proposal to exchange their $27 billion in debt for equity. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10562&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10562&typeid=1&goto=story Text 100 Global Public Relations has introduced a new set of organizational leadership consulting services designed to help chief executive officers communicate effectively during the current turbulent business environment. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10560&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10560&typeid=1&goto=story The board of directors of Dentsu Public Relations has nominated Shigeki Ishimatsu, currently senior managing director, as the president of the company. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10559&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10559&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named Franklin (Frank) Lavin to the position of chairman of the public affairs practice for Edelman Asia Pacific. Lavin will provide counsel to clients on the changing nature of the relationship between business and government in the region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10558&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10558&typeid=1&goto=story Interpublic Group-owned public relations agency GolinHarris, advertising agency Lowe, and digital company Initiative have joined forces for the Hong Kong launch of Plan International, a global aid agency working for children in developing countries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10557&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10557&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton Australia has been appointed to manage the public relations campaign for this years Girls Night In, an annual Cancer Council initiative, plus new business at Fulford, new people at H&K. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10556&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10556&typeid=1&goto=story Following the departure last month of Mark Hass, chief executive of MS&L, and the resignation this week of Publicis Consultants chairman Eric Giuly, French holding company Publicis Groupe has appointed Olivier Fleurot as chief executive of the companys public relations units. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10555&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10555&typeid=1&goto=story Racepoint Group, the technology and digital media public relations agency, has named new leaders for its European and U.K. operations. Cathy Pittham will join the firm as managing director of Racepoint Group Europe. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10554&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10554&typeid=1&goto=story International technology public relations agency Hotwire has created a specialist digital agency, 33 Digital, which launches a European team of PR, digital marketing and web design specialists and an international client roster. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10553&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10553&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Sigurd Grytten as chief executive of the firms Norway operations, plus new people at BASF, BondPR and Trimedia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10552&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10552&typeid=1&goto=story FD, the strategic communications firm owned by FTI Consulting, has appointed four new managing directors in the Americas region. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10551&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10551&typeid=1&goto=story Strat@comm, a public affairs subsidiary of Fleishman-Hillard, has expanded the client roster in its Washington, D.C., and Detroit offices with the addition of the University Of Michigan Ross School of Business Executive Education and the Department of Energy. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10550&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10550&typeid=1&goto=story Choice Hotels International has promoted Anne Madison to senior vice president, corporate communications. In conjunction with her promotion, Madison has been elected an officer of the company by the Choice Hotels board of directors. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10549&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10549&typeid=1&goto=story Tevi Troy, former deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has joined APCO Worldwides international advisory council. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10548&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10548&typeid=1&goto=story Maccabee Group Public Relations has formed NODE, its new social media and online reputation management practice. The new practice will help clients take advantage of new and emerging technologies, including platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10547&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10547&typeid=1&goto=story Dewey Digital, the new media arm of the Dewey Square Group, has formed a long-term strategic partnership with open-source content management company SilverStripebest known for powering the Democratic National Convention websiteto expand its use of the SilverStripe platform. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10546&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10546&typeid=1&goto=story MWW Group has promoted Joseph Becker to lead the agency's DialogueMedia practice, plus new people in new positions at Waggener Edstrom and Maroon PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10545&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10545&typeid=1&goto=story DKC has been hired by newly formed licensing agency Gator Group, plus new business for Strategic Communications Group, Maroon PR, Adam Friedman Associates, Gable PR, Fresh Ink, Campbell Consulting Group, and Lisa Lori Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10544&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10544&typeid=1&goto=story The Procter & Gamble Company has chosen MS&L to be its Asia regional corporate communications and reputation agency. The ongoing communications program will be led out of MS&Ls Hong Kong and Singapore offices. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10539&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10539&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has named Brian Giesen, currently a vice president and senior strategist with the firms 360° Digital Influence Group in Washington, D.C., will be joining Ogilvy PR in Asia Pacific, based in the companys Sydney office. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10538&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10538&typeid=1&goto=story The Boao Forum For Asia has appointed Ogilvy PR/Beijing as its official public relations partner, plus new business for Grayling, GolinHarris, Waggener Edstrom and Fulford PR; new people for Weber Shandwick and Mitsubishi Australia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10537&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10537&typeid=1&goto=story Panasonic AVC Systems Europe has appointed specialist technology agency AxiCom Cohn & Wolfe to handle its business to business PR programme in multiple European countries. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10536&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10536&typeid=1&goto=story Omnicoms Diversified Agency Services group is launching TogoRun, a global healthcare communications agency with offices in New York and London. TogoRun specializes in healthcare, pharmaceutical and consumer wellness public relations and public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10535&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10535&typeid=1&goto=story Nissan North America has named Scott Stevens as vice president of corporate communications, Nissan Americas. Stevens succeeds Alan Buddendeck, who in February was named corporate vice president, global communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10534&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10534&typeid=1&goto=story After a strong performance in the fourth quarter of 2008, public relations revenues at WPP Groupparent of Burson-Marsteller, Cohn & Wolfe, Hill & Knowlton and Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwidetook a hit in the first quarter of 2009, down by 6.1 percent. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10533&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10533&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has appointed Joe Carberry as Western regional president. In a newly created role, Carberry will be responsible for developing and executing a unified business strategy for the Western region, which includes offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10532&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10532&typeid=1&goto=story Republican political consultancy and Quinn Gillespie & Associates founder Ed Gillespie is forming Ed Gillespie Strategies, a new strategic consulting firm that will provide high-level advice to companies and CEOs, coalitions and trade associations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10531&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10531&typeid=1&goto=story SS+K has added two digital experts, expanding the firms social media capabilities and in particular its ability to mobilize social movements on behalf of clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10530&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10530&typeid=1&goto=story Courtney Simmons has joined Disney Interactive Media Group as vice president of communications. Simmons will be based in North Hollywood, Cal., and will manage all communications for Disney Interactive Media Group. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10529&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10529&typeid=1&goto=story Edmund Belak has joined Dukas Public Relations to build and lead its new corporate communications and investor relations practices. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10528&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10528&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has been named public relations agency of record for SecondMarket, the worlds largest marketplace for illiquid assets such as auction-rate securities, bankruptcy claims, collateralized debt obligations, and mortgage-backed securities. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10527&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10527&typeid=1&goto=story Ameren Corporation has named Karen Foss as senior vice president, communications and brand management. She will report to Thomas Voss, will take over as chief executive officer and president of Ameren Corporation on May 1. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10526&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10526&typeid=1&goto=story GlobalHealthPR, an independent public relations network dedicated exclusively to health and medical communications, has expanded in Latin America by welcoming two new partner firms; PR Partners in Mexico and Tino Projetos em Comunicação in Brazil. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10525&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10525&typeid=1&goto=story Gibraltar Associates has hired Danielle Kazmier as a senior vice president, providing client counsel and strategic issues management advice, plus new people in new roles at Widmeyer Communications and Schwartz Media Strategies. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10524&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10524&typeid=1&goto=story MS&Ls Toronto office hired by the digital camera division of Fujifilm Canada, plus new business successes for Lou Hammond, KCSA, DKC, Crenshaw Communications, College Hill, LVM, Tartaglia Communications, Tiziani Whitmyre, LaVoie Group, and Dresner Corporate Services. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10523&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10523&typeid=1&goto=story Bite CommunicaCtions and Inferno Communications, both wholly-owned companies of Next Fifteen Communications Group, will merge on 1 May 2009. The merger is designed to accelerate Bites growth and further enhance its position in the U.K. market. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10502&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10502&typeid=1&goto=story Citigate Sanchis/Trimedia has appointed Eduardo Fuentes as its new chief executive for Spain and Portugal. In his new position, Fuentes will be responsible for the management and the development of the business. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10501&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10501&typeid=1&goto=story Virtual Earth, the mapping and location-based services platform from Microsoft, has appointed Weber Shandwick Technology as its EMEA hub agency. The addition cements Weber Shandwick's position as Microsofts agency of record in EMEA. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10500&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10500&typeid=1&goto=story Chameleon PR, one of the U.K.s leading independent technology public relations consultancies, has launched its consumer business under a new brand, Komodo PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10499&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10499&typeid=1&goto=story Vignette Corporation, which provides Internet content management and collaboration software, has appointed Hotwire as lead public relations agency for its international region, which comprises Europe, Middle East, Africa and Australasia. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10498&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10498&typeid=1&goto=story VisitEngland, Englands new tourism body, has appointed Trimedia U.K. to launch its new Enjoy England marketing campaign. The £3 million multimedia campaign, which includes television and print advertising, sets out to make Brits reconsider their free time as an opportunity to take a trip in England. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10497&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10497&typeid=1&goto=story Penrose Financial has promoted Nick Bone and Clare Milton to associate director, plus new people in new roles at Porsche, Interel; new accounts at Fishburn Hedges and Grant Butler Coomber. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10496&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10496&typeid=1&goto=story Independent New York public relations agency Makovsky & Company has joined forces with a group of specialist firms in environmental consulting to form Interraction, a consortium that will advise businesses about the risks of climate change and the advantages of sustainable solutions. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10495&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10495&typeid=1&goto=story Cohn & Wolfe has been appointed agency of record in the U.S. by Ubisoft, a leading worldwide producer, publisher, and distributor of interactive entertainment products. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10494&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10494&typeid=1&goto=story CRT/tanaka has been retained by Cambria Suites to offer strategic counsel and support in several areas of the companys growing business. Cambria Suites is the newest all-suites brand from Choice Hotels International. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10493&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10493&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has named Bill Reihl as executive vice president and group director of the agencys New York consumer marketing practice. Reihl has been with Ogilvy PR for five years as a member of the firms strategy and planning team. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10492&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10492&typeid=1&goto=story The Washington, D.C., office of Porter Novelli has been selected by the National Heart Lung & Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, to expand and enhance its chronic obstructive pulmonary disease awareness campaign. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10491&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10491&typeid=1&goto=story Warschawski has been selected by Capital Funding Bancorp to develop and execute strategic internal and external communications programs surrounding the companys acquisition of AmericasBank. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10490&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10490&typeid=1&goto=story Schwartz Communications has expanded its government relations practice with the addition of five new clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10489&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10489&typeid=1&goto=story Zurich Financial Services Group has appointed Francis Bouchard as head of the climate office. In his new position, Bouchard will work to institutionalize the company's climate-related expertise across the organization. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10488&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10488&typeid=1&goto=story Environics Communications has been hired by two new clients, the Apartment & Office Building Association of Metropolitan Washington and the Water Design-Build Council. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10487&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10487&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick is The Holmes Report's Global Agency of the Year, plus Agency of the Year awards for Ogilvy, DeVries, Carmichael Lynch Spong, rbb Public Relations, Catalyst and Canada's National Public Relations. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10446&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10446&typeid=1&goto=story Despite tough times, recognition for high-performing specialist firms including Coyne, M Booth & Associates, Joele Frank, Kekst and Company, WeissComm, Makovsky, Zocalo, Qorvis, Taylor, and Lewis PR. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10445&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10445&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has appointed Ken Hirata as director of healthcare in its Japan office. In his new role, Hirata will oversee MS&L Japans healthcare accounts, including sanofi-aventis, AstraZeneca and AMD Alliance International. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10442&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10442&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has appointed Rozani Jainudeen as general manager of its Malaysian operations. Jainudeen has more than 15 years of extensive experience in media and public relations in both agency and corporate environments. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10441&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10441&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton is expanding its presence in Africa with the launch of a new public relations firm in a joint venture with Scangroup, the first and only marketing services company to be quoted on the Nairobi Stock Exchange. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10440&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10440&typeid=1&goto=story Fredrik Lofthagen, chief executive of European corporate affairs consultancy Interel, has been appointed to the board of directors of Interel parent company Hasgrove. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10439&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10439&typeid=1&goto=story Mark Hass, chief executive at MS&L since 2005his Detroit firm was acquired by what was then Manning Selvage & Lee in March of 2002has left the firm and is launching a new agency, MH Group, based in New York. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10438&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10438&typeid=1&goto=story Dana Perino, White House press secretary for President George W. Bush from 2007 to 2009 and prior to that deputy press secretary, has joined Burson-Marsteller as chief issues counselor for the U.S. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10437&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10437&typeid=1&goto=story President Barack Obama has nominated two individuals to senior communications roles, including former Discovery Communications president Judith McHale as undersecretary for public diplomacy and public affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10436&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10436&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has appointed Lisa Davidson as a managing director in the firms global healthcare practice. Davidson was most recently a partner at communications firm Porter Novelli, where she led the firms New York healthcare practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10435&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10435&typeid=1&goto=story Spectrum Science Communications is refining its name to Spectrum and rebranding itself to better reflect the depth of expertise and breadth of services the firm offers. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10434&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10434&typeid=1&goto=story Warschawski has been retained as U.S. agency of record by Innovation Norway, the Norwegian state-owned company that promotes the country of Norways industry and tourism abroad. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10433&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10433&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has hired David Almacy, the former White House Internet and e-communications director, as a senior vice president in its Washington, DC, digital public affairs practice. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10432&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10432&typeid=1&goto=story George Washington Universitys masters in strategic public relations program has named Tom Martin, who previously served as chief communications officer with FedEx and ITT Industries, has joined its adjunct faculty. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10431&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10431&typeid=1&goto=story Imperial Brands has tapped independent marketing and communications firm Cramer-Krasselt Public Relations as its PR agency of record for Sobieski Vodka following a review. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10430&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10430&typeid=1&goto=story Burson-Marsteller has named Michele Chase managing director of global human resources, replacing Celia Berk, who has been named chief talent officer for Burson-Marsteller parent company Young & Rubicam Brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10429&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10429&typeid=1&goto=story Bailey Gardiner, a creative marketing agency based in San Diego, has joined Pinnacle Worldwide, a global network of independent public relations agencies with nearly 50 members around the world. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10428&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10428&typeid=1&goto=story Kerry Tymchuk, who served as state director for U.S. Senator Gordon Smith (R-Ore.) from 1997 until earlier this year, is leaving politics to become a corporate communications advisor at Conkling Fiskum & McCormick. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10427&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10427&typeid=1&goto=story Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide has named Thomas Smith executive vice president and group director of the agencys New York corporate practice, plus new people in new roles at Duffy & Shanley ancd Mercury Public Affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10426&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10426&typeid=1&goto=story MGA Communications has added two new clients, plus new business for Trevelino/Keller, rbb, Volume Public Relations, SSA, JS2 Communications and Lisa Lori Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10425&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10425&typeid=1&goto=story FD, Finsbury Group and Maitland topped the Asia-Pacific rankings of public relations advisors on mergers and acquisitions during the first quarter of 2009, according to mergermarket rankings published this week. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10411&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10411&typeid=1&goto=story Weber Shandwick has strengthened its healthcare practice in China with the addition of biopharma firm UCB Pharma; plus new business for Hill & Knowlton and Blue Lotus Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10410&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10410&typeid=1&goto=story Brunswick Group, FD and Finsbury top the league table of European public relations advisors on mergers and acquisitions during the first quarter, according to mergermarket rankings published this week. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10409&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10409&typeid=1&goto=story U.K. public relations and public affairs consultancy Mandate Communications has launched an Edinburgh operation, Mandate Scotland. Mandate Scotland will be headed up by Craig Harrow, an experienced political lobbyist and corporate communications specialist. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10408&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10408&typeid=1&goto=story MS&L has been appointed by Lion Nathan to spearhead the launch of new lager Steinlager Pure into the U.K., plus new business for Lewis PR, Johnson King, and Four Communications, and a new communications exec at the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10407&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10407&typeid=1&goto=story Kekst and Company, Sard Verbinnen & Co., and Brunswick Group topped the North American rankings of public relations advisors on mergers and acquisitions during the first quarter of 2009, according to mergermarket rankings. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10406&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10406&typeid=1&goto=story Edelman has named Jane Madden to the new position of senior vice president, corporate social responsibility and sustainability, based in the firms Chicago office. Edelman says the appointment reflects the growing need companies have to engage and communicate with stakeholders. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10405&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10405&typeid=1&goto=story CRT/tanaka has acquired Washington, D.C., area-based Livingston Communications, a specialist in social media communications. CEO Geoff Livingston, a prominent blogger and author, will join the firm as a senior vice president. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10404&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10404&typeid=1&goto=story Bob Pearson, previously vice president of communities and conversations at Dell, has left the company to become president of The Blog Council, a leading forum for large companies to share best practices in social media. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10403&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10403&typeid=1&goto=story Beyond Tribute, a nonprofit that has brought together leaders from business, the arts, veterans and civic groups along with citizens to change how we celebrate Memorial Day and Veterans Day, has selected DKC as its public relations partner. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10402&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10402&typeid=1&goto=story Sports, entertainment and lifestyle public relations firm Catalyst Public Relations has been named PR agency of record for Under Armour, the Baltimore -based leader in sports apparel and footwear. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10401&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10401&typeid=1&goto=story Feintuch Communications, a strategic relations firm founded by industry veteran and former journalist Henry Feintuch, has opened for business. Feintuch, formerly managing partner of public relations, with KCSA Strategic Communications, left the firm in late December. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10400&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10400&typeid=1&goto=story Northeast Ohio public relations executives David Meeker and Davis Young, both veterans of Edward Howard & Co., are launching a communication training venture to provide specialized instruction and counsel for business leaders. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10399&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10399&typeid=1&goto=story Hill & Knowlton has made a series of new hires in its Washington, D.C. office following an expansion in the firms work for several existing clients and the addition of a number of new clients. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10398&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10398&typeid=1&goto=story Trippe & Company, a Denver-area public relations firm, has launched a new social media practice that will include a wide range of online activities that help drive prospects through the buying cycle, including blogging, website development and flash videos. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10397&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10397&typeid=1&goto=story eLuminatePR has added Dallas-based Advanced Beauty Systems to its roster of clients. ABS, one of the fastest growing marketers of specialty bath, hair and skincare products, has retained the agency to represent its bodycology, Dr. Teals and Slice of Life brands. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10396&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10396&typeid=1&goto=story Gaude Lydia Paez has joined Fox Broadcasting Company as vice president, corporate communications, plus new people in new roles at IMA Financial Group and the United Fresh Produce Association. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10395&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10395&typeid=1&goto=story The Minneapolis-Saint Paul office of Weber Shandwick has selected People Serving People, the largest family-focused shelter in Minnesota, as its pro bono client for 2009, plus new clients for Amy Levy PR and Zapwater Communications. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10394&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10394&typeid=1&goto=story World Vision India, a Christian humanitarian organization focused on children, has appointed Hanmer MS&L Communications to manage its public relations mandate. http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10384&typeid=1&goto=story http://www.holmesreport.com/story.cfm?edit_id=10384&typeid=1&goto=story Digital agency BBDO/Proximity and MobileBehavior, the Fleishman-Hillard spinoff helmed by youth marketing expert Alan Rambam, have forged an alliance that will offer clients of both Omn