LONDON — Hanover has named Alastair Gornall as its first non-executive chairman, as the independent public affairs firm steps up plans for international expansion, capital raising and acquisitions.

Gornall, who was previously founder/CEO of Consolidated, has chaired numerous PR firms, including Blue Rubicon. It is hard to think of a more experienced PR industry Chairman to advise on our strategic development and help power up growth for the next five years," said Hanover founder/MD Charles Lewington.

Hanover was recently named EMEA Public Affairs Consultancy of the Year, after winning Global honours last year.

"Hanover is fast becoming the leading independent strategic communications consultancy in the UK and Europe and I am hugely excited about its potential and the chance to work with its impressive management team," said Gornall.