LONDON--Michael Burrell, the public affairs veteran who stepped down from Edelman last week, is to join Apco Worldwide.

Burrell becomes Europe vice chairman of public affairs, reporting to international president Brad Staples. He will start the new role in September.

The Holmes Report last week revealed that Burrell was departing Edelman after nine years in charge of its European public affairs practice.

“Michael is one of the most respected individuals in public affairs across Europe,” said Staples. “He brings a wealth of executive experience that will strengthen our existing team of global practitioners, help further integrate our London and Brussels public affairs teams and provide unparalleled counsel to APCO’s clients around the world. I am delighted to welcome him on board.”

Prior to joining Edelman in 2002, Burrell was chairman of Westminster Strategy, a London-based lobbying firm owned by Grayling, which he founded in 1986. He also served as chairman of Grayling Political Strategy, its successful sister operation in Brussels.

Said Burrell: “My aim will be to focus on building business across disciplines and exploring how public affairs campaigns can be deployed as a key component in broader corporate reputation and communication work and across geographies, notably between London and Brussels.”

Burrell’s appointment follows APCO’s acquisition of Eloqui, a London-based corporate agency.