SINGAPORE--Software giant SAP is searching for an agency to provide regional PR support in Asia-Pacific. 

The Holmes Report understands that three firms are in the running for the business, including global AOR Burson-Marsteller.

The process is being overseen by SAP's new Asia-Pacific communications VP, Claudia Cortes, who took on the role earlier this year following the departure of Ian Brown. Cortes was previously corporate communications director at SAP America.

A source familiar with the situation said that SAP is seeking support for its regional HQ in Singapore. The German company currently employs more than 10,000 people in Asia-Pacific and Japan, with 600 based in Singapore alone.

One year ago, SAP moved to decentralise its hold on worldwide agency relationships. That decision saw the company part ways with SAP in the UK, and hire Edelman and Octopus instead.

Burson-Marsteller currently services SAP in numerous markets worldwide, with total fees from the business believed to be in excess of $5m.

Cortes did not respond to request for comment.