Agency People News In Brief (February 10, 2025)

(MENAFN- PRovoke) TORONTO - Weber Shandwick Canada has named Ben Pobjoy as executive creative director, strengthening its earned-first approach. Pobjoy, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and keynote speaker, brings a diverse creative background, including leadership roles in marketing, entertainment, and the arts. He previously led the creative team at Behaviour, working with brands such as Air Canada, Kellogg's, PepsiCo, and RBC. In 2023, he gained global attention for his Marathon Earth Challenge, completing 242 marathons in 70 countries. His 2024 short film The Brown Dog, featuring Michael K. Williams and Steve Buscemi, premiered at the Tribeca Festival and attracted high-profile executive producers including Chiwetel Ejiofor and Idris Elba.

MAPLEWOOD, NJ - CommsCollectiv has appointed Brian Besanceney, former chief communications officer of Walmart and Boeing, as partner. The move comes as the firm marks a successful first year of offering fractional communications leadership, connecting organizations with senior talent on a flexible basis. Besanceney brings more than 25 years of corporate affairs and communications leadership experience, including roles at three Fortune 50 companies and the White House. At Boeing, he led a 475-person team through significant operational and reputational challenges while modernizing digital capabilities. Previously, as Walmart's first CCO, he integrated the company's global communications functions into a 360-degree reputation management approach.

SAN FRANCISCO - Waterhouse Brands has launched its life sciences communications practice with the appointment of Terri Clevenger as head of integrated communications. Based in Boston, Clevenger (pictured) will expand Waterhouse's offerings to include public relations, financial and industry media relations, patient advocacy, and disease education. Since its founding in 2017, Waterhouse has established itself as a boutique agency specializing in brand reputation for life sciences companies, working at the intersection of brand, culture, and communications.

NEW YORK - Finn Partners has promoted Rachel Hillman to partner in the firm's North American travel practice. Based in New York, Hillman leads teams handling integrated public relations and digital strategy for clients including Mandarin Oriental, Seabourn, and Chapman Freeborn. She also heads the practice's digital team, overseeing social media strategies for brands such as Carillon Miami Wellness Resort and Maxx Royal Resorts.

SAN JOSE, CA - The Hoffman Agency has appointed Margaret Carpo as senior VP, leading the firm's enterprise and deep tech practice from its San Jose headquarters. Carpo brings nearly two decades of experience in AI, semiconductors, enterprise technology, and venture capital, most recently serving as senior VP at Clarity, where she led the San Francisco office. Her expertise in B2B enterprise and startups will support Hoffman's growth in the deep tech sector.

SALT LAKE CITY - Method Communications has named veteran journalist Lydia Dishman as VP of content strategy. Dishman, formerly senior editor for growth and engagement at Fast Company, brings 25 years of experience in technology, business, and innovation journalism. At Fast Company, they managed the contributor network and syndication partnerships with major news organizations. Dishman joins Method's content team led by Tim Race, executive VP of narrative and thought leadership and former New York Times business and technology editor.

WASHINGTON - APCO has appointed William Clark as senior director with its public affairs team in Washington. Clark brings more than 30 years of experience in elections, advocacy, grassroots organization, and government service. He joins APCO from AARP, where he served as campaign director for over a decade, leading advocacy efforts on family caregiving and prescription drug policies.

LOS ANGELES - Lucky Break Public Relations has appointed Erika Satler as VP, expanding its presence in entertainment, gaming, and tech. Satler, who has led PR campaigns for Red Bull, Amazon, and Warner Bros., joins from The Story Mob, where she served as communications director for North America. She previously spent six years at MikeWorldWide, managing projects across New York and Los Angeles. Satler is known for securing high-profile media coverage and cultivating relationships with top-tier media and influencers.

NEW YORK - RooneyPartners has promoted Ashley Rooney to senior associate and Jana Lausevic to associate. Rooney, who joined the agency in 2018, has been a key member of its digital and social media practice. Lausevic, who joined in 2022 following a successful internship, has quickly risen within the firm's ranks.

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