BEIJING--Burson-Marsteller has launched a new global energy practice, led by the firm’s Beijing office.

The new unit comes as energy issues continue to attract scrutiny, as evidenced by the recent nuclear crisis in Japan, and the BP oil spill last year.

“With energy demand anticipated to rise 40 percent in the coming decades and energy challenges becoming more extreme, strategic communications will be even more vital to success,” said B-M worldwide CEO Mark Penn.
The practice’s is led by China public affairs MD Douglas Dew, who is supported by a leadership team that includes Asia-Pacific CEO Bob Pickard, along with several executives in North America, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

The practice will offer a range of services, including research, issues and crisis management, M&A advice, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, sustainability and corporate responsibility.

“The global energy practice collaborates on projects and programs that span the globe, leveraging our global network of strengths and experience in many facets of the energy industry,” added Penn.