Global independent marketing and communications firm FINN Partners has acquired RICE Communications (RICE), a 60-strong, Singapore-based, strategic communications and public relations consultancy, with expertise in travel, technology, corporate and consumer public relations across the Asia-Pacific region. Bolstering FINN’s sizable existing presence in Singapore, the addition of RICE will amount to nearly 100 total employees in that market, making FINN one of the largest PR firms in Singapore, and establishing its Singapore office as one of the five largest offices among its 34 offices around the world. The move also adds new FINN offices in Thailand and Myanmar, in addition to building on the firm’s presence in Hong Kong and reinitiating the firm’s presence in the Philippines, ensuring FINN can offer support to clients across all key Southeast Asian markets. The firm will be known as “RICE, A FINN Partners Company.” James Brasher, RICE Managing Partner, joins FINN as managing partner and lead for the agency’s combined Singapore office.RICE becomes part of the FINN APAC region, overseen by Howard Solomon, founding managing partner, who also leads FINN efforts on the West Coast of the US. In his new role, Brasher will grow the firm’s reputation as a communications and public relations powerhouse in Asia Pacific. He will also become a member of the APAC leadership team, working closely with regional leaders in Greater China, India, and Malaysia. As part of this transition, Naeema Ismail takes on a new regional role in Strategic Business Development & Crisis Communications, Asia Pacific. She will focus on expanding new business opportunities across key sectors. In addition, she will drive crisis communications advisory across the region. Naeema will also lead the development of structured crisis training services, alongside media and presentation coaching, to further enhance FINN’s client offerings and regional expertise.There are no staff redundancies.Founded in 2009 by Sonya Madeira, RICE has earned a strong reputation as a true pan-regional voice of authority on strategic communications, with deep roots across APAC. RICE has been recognized for its all-round excellence, winning numerous Agency/Consultancy of the Year awards in its market as well as multiple awards for being a Best Place to Work by the communication industry’s highest bodies, including the ICCO, IPRS, PRovoke Media, PRCA and PRWeek Asia. The firm’s diverse portfolio of current clients include: Audi, B&O, Exabeam, FICO, Klook, UiPath and WWF.“From the beginning, my vision for FINN Partners has been to create a world-class agency with unmatched depth of sector expertise and integrated services to benefit clients wherever they are in the world,” said Peter Finn, FINN CEO and founding partner. “We have made great progress transforming from a leading US agency to a true global player. We established London as our European headquarters, expanding our expertise in consumer, tech, health, travel and financial services to the EMEA market. Recognizing the increasing importance of Asia as one of the fastest-growing economic zones globally, we expanded into the region several years later with Singapore as our Asia headquarters, offering deep expertise in B2B and tech, followed by the addition of integrated travel and lifestyle agency CatchOn, with offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing. We also bolstered our global health expertise and integrated marketing capabilities with the addition of SPAG in India. The acquisition of RICE builds on our collaborative approach to growth. Given our expansive footprint, unrivaled depth and breadth of sector expertise, and flexible ONE FINN model, FINN is best positioned to be the go-to agency for clients in need of integrated marketing and communications services.”Joining FINN Partners enables RICE to deepen its capabilities and sector expertise to help clients navigate today’s complex business environment and fuel growth. Said James Brasher, “Our vision is underpinned by our commitment towards stewardship – to take care of the team, clients, and the community so we can look after the future. As part of FINN Partners, our momentum will be greatly accelerated, especially since the businesses and, importantly, values and culture are so closely aligned. This partnership enables our team and clients to tap on FINN’s capabilities, expertise, resources and network – just as we complement theirs with our deep roots, diversity of perspectives and capabilities across Asia Pacific.”FINN’s APAC region has grown significantly, accounting for approximately 7.5% of the firm’s global revenues. With the addition of RICE, FINN APAC will grow to a staff of nearly 250 people and USD $15 million in revenues.Howard Solomon, founding managing partner and APAC Lead, said: “After spending time with James and his team, we knew that they were a perfect fit for FINN Partners. They are passionate about the work they do for their clients, their expertise complements and strengthens our vertical expertise, and they believe in the value of collaboration as a key to their success.”

Fiserv, Inc., a leading global provider of payments and financial services technology, has named FINN Partners its Global Agency of Record.FINN is providing a range of fintech and consumer tech communications services focusing on creative campaigns and storytelling, media and influencer engagement, live activations, and events and partnerships in the U.S. and 14 markets around the world.Fiserv selected FINN as its communication partner to accelerate brand, marketing, and PR efforts under its new, unified creative banner, “Fiserv Moves More than Money.”“We are excited to welcome FINN Partners to Fiserv,” said Sophia Marshall, SVP, Head of Communications at Fiserv. We have big plans and exciting brand moments ahead of us, and we’re thrilled to have a strategic PR partner that will work alongside us and immediately impact our communications efforts.FINN won the business after a competitive pitch and recently kicked off the partnership. FINN’s East Coast Technology Practice will lead the global engagement with in-market support from EMEA, APAC, and LATAM colleagues.“From our earliest conversation with Fiserv’s next-level brand, marketing, and communications leadership, and in every call since, we have been inspired and energized to support their mission to Move More than Money,” said Jodi Petrie, Senior Partner at FINN Partners. “Along with our colleagues worldwide, we can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and make a difference.”

FINN Partners, the global independent, full-service marketing and communications agency, has announced the promotion of Elizabeth Treversh, formerly senior partner in the UK consumer practice, to managing partner, UK consumer.Elizabeth , who was recruited three years ago as part of a planned transition, takes on the role as Zaria Pinchbeck, current managing partner, consumer, steps down, five years after selling her former agency, ZPR Ltd, to FINN Partners.The twenty strong London-based consumer team will continue to work on long standing clients such as Lakeland and Waitrose, in addition to new clients gained since ZPR was acquired by FINN, including The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Wagamama, Dole Sunshine Foods, Toolstation, Berry Bros. & Rudd and 2K video games, to name just a few.Elizabeth said: “It’s been a brilliant three years working alongside Zaria and I’ve learnt a lot along the way; hers will be some seriously big shoes to fill. PR is a constantly evolving discipline and I feel lucky to work with one of the most creative and switched-on teams in the business, servicing an eclectic mix of UK and global clients.”Zaria Pinchbeck commented: “The last five years has been a tremendous experience and I always say I wish I’d done it sooner. We couldn’t have found a better home for the agency I set up 23 years ago than FINN Partners. We’ve been working on our succession plan for the last few years, and it’s great to see the plan come together so well. I’d like to thank Liz, Lynne, Polly, Jonathan and the whole team for being such a ‘dream team’, and Peter Finn, Chantal Bowman-Boyles and the founding partners of FINN for all their incredible support over the last five years.”Chantal Bowman-Boyles, managing partner, FINN Partners EMEA, says: “This is a fantastically well-deserved promotion for Liz, who has spent the last three years embedding herself with our teams and clients, and leading several of our high-profile new business wins. At the same time, we wish Zaria all the best for the future. She is a talented operator who has been a wonderful colleague, mentor and friend to all of us since she joined. We want to thank her for bringing such an amazing team and portfolio of clients to FINN, and for helping our consumer practice grow from strength to strength during her time with us. We’re excited to see what the next chapter holds for both our team and for Zaria.”

Finn Partners has been appointed to lead U.S. media relations for the Iceland Airwaves Festival, set to take place from November 7-9 across downtown Reykjavik. Known as the world’s most northerly music showcase, the festival brings continuous music to various venues throughout the city, including nightclubs, bars, churches, record shops, museums, and outdoor stages. This year's lineup highlights Iceland's emerging musical talents alongside international acts, featuring artists like Mary in the Junkyard, Spacestation, Air Jazz, Orbit, Virgin Orchestra, SunDog, Casey Smith Project, and Elin Hall.Over its two-decade history, Iceland Airwaves has hosted renowned artists such as Björk, The Flaming Lips, The Knife, Kraftwerk, Mumford & Sons, and Fleet Foxes. In their role, Finn Partners will handle press briefing materials, media outreach, interview scheduling, travel logistics, and on-site support. They are set to receive a project fee of $20,000, plus expenses for travel and paid influencer partnerships.

Global independent marketing and communications firm FINN Partners has announced its partnership with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) to lead global communications for the ‘Together in Travel’ community launch. As part of the corporate communications brief, FINN Partners will manage content creation, PR, SEO, and digital advertising for the new initiative being launched by WTTC at the Global Summit in Perth in October.The WTTC is a leading global authority on the economic and social contribution of travel and tourism, representing the sector globally and advocating for its sustainable growth. The Council works with governments, industries, and communities to raise awareness of the travel sector’s economic value and to advance important initiatives that promote sustainable and inclusive tourism practices.The creation of the ‘Together in Travel’ community is specifically aimed at small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which make up 80% of the global travel community and strives to provide tools and content to both accelerate their business growth and ensure their voices are heard globally.This dynamic and free-to-subscribe community with additional paid membership options rolling out in later phases will focus on empowering these businesses by facilitating meaningful connections, providing valuable insights, and offering tailored learning programs to help them thrive in a competitive market.The communications mandate for this campaign spans FINN Partners’ purpose and social impact teams, as well as their global travel teams. The objective is to drive awareness and engagement that this is the go-to global network for the private sector SMEs in emerging and developed markets and will target all levels from startups to mature businesses.Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: “SMEs form the backbone of our global tourism industry and their role in driving growth and innovation is undeniable. By partnering with FINN Partners on the ‘Together in Travel’ community campaign, we are leveraging their communications and storytelling expertise globally to amplify the voices of SMEs, ensuring they have the sustainable support and visibility needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair of Membership at WTTC | Chairman & CEO of Virtuoso, said: “As the founder of a membership organisation myself and a long-time member of WTTC I am delighted to see our joint vision becoming a reality and these important voices being given a platform on the global stage. The ‘Together in Travel’ by WTTC will elevate our role as the voice and advocate for the private sector. I am excited to see the value the WTTC and Together in Travel subscribers will bring to each other as the community thrives.Debbie Flynn, Managing Partner, Global Travel Practice Leader at FINN Partners expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “At FINN Partners, we have always believed in the transformative power of travel. By collaborating with the WTTC on the ‘Together in Travel’ community, we are excited to be leading the campaign which will inspire confidence in the future for this critical part of our sector and ensure sustainable partnerships, growth and resilience.” Flynn is leading the account alongside a team of 10 across practices and markets, including in India, APAC, Europe, and the US.(Image: finnpartners.com)

Global independent marketing and communications firm FINN Partners, today announced its partnership with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) to lead global communications for the ‘Together in Travel’ community launch. As part of the corporate communications brief, FINN Partners will manage content creation, PR, SEO, and digital advertising for the new initiative being launched by WTTC at the Global Summit in Perth in October.The WTTC is a leading global authority on the economic and social contribution of travel and tourism, representing the sector globally and advocating for its sustainable growth. The Council works with governments, industries, and communities to raise awareness of the travel sector's economic value and to advance important initiatives that promote sustainable and inclusive tourism practices.The creation of the ‘Together in Travel’ community is specifically aimed at small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which make up 80% of the global travel community and aims to provide tools and content to both accelerate their business growth and ensure their voices are heard globally. This dynamic and free-to-subscribe community with additional paid membership options rolling out in later phases will focus on empowering these businesses by facilitating meaningful connections, providing valuable insights, and offering tailored learning programs to help them thrive in a competitive market.The communications mandate for this campaign spans FINN Partners' purpose and social impact teams, as well as their global travel teams. The objective is to drive awareness and engagement that this is the go-to global network for the private sector SMEs in emerging and developed markets and will target all levels from startups to mature businessesJulia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said, “SMEs form the backbone of our global tourism industry and their role in driving growth and innovation is undeniable. By partnering with FINN Partners on the 'Together in Travel' community campaign, we are leveraging their communications and storytelling expertise globally to amplify the voices of SMEs, ensuring they have the sustainable support and visibility needed to thrive in today's competitive landscape.”Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair of Membership at WTTC | Chairman & CEO of Virtuoso, said “As the founder of a membership organisation myself and a long-time member of WTTC I am delighted to see our joint vision becoming a reality and these important voices being given a platform on the global stage. The ‘Together in Travel’ by WTTC will elevate our role as the voice and advocate for the private sector. I am excited to see the value the WTTC and Together in Travel subscribers will bring to each other as the community thrives. Debbie Flynn, Managing Partner, Global Travel Practice Leader at FINN Partners expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "At FINN Partners, we have always believed in the transformative power of travel. By collaborating with the WTTC on the 'Together in Travel' community, we are excited to be leading the campaign which will inspire confidence in the future for this critical part of our sector and ensure sustainable partnerships, growth and resilience” Flynn is leading the account alongside a team of 10 across practices and markets, including in India, APAC, Europe, and the U.S.

FINN Partners, one of the world's leading independent marketing and communications agencies, has announced the appointment of Julie Adrian as Managing Partner and UK Health Group Lead. In the newly created position, Adrian reports to Gil Bashe, Chair FINN Global Health and Purpose. She will work closely with Fern Lazar, managing partner, FINN Global Health Practice Lead, and Chantal Bowman-Boyles, managing partner, FINN EMEA."Julie Adrian's exceptional track record of leading top health communication firms to spearhead client growth strategies and champion the success of life science companies makes her the ideal person to lead our UK Health Group," said Fern Lazar, managing partner, FINN Global Health Practice Lead. "Creating this position, tailored to Julie's considerable abilities, skills and energy, underscores FINN Partners' increasing leadership in global health communications. It further reinforces our commitment to an integrated and collaborative approach to providing clients in the United Kingdom and beyond with the highest level of service in the competitive worldwide biopharma and medical device sectors."Adrian brings a wealth of experience in health communications, having held executive positions at industry communication leaders such as CCA, InVentiv, and Syneos, where she led the expansion of their EU presence; Real Chemistry, where she served as Chief Client Experience Officer; and most recently, Alverium Health, a contract biotech organization, working with clients in pre-commercialization to accelerate and de-risk the path to market. "In joining FINN Partners, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of a health communications powerhouse that has been recognized, time and again, with industry-defining awards and which is widely known for its abiding commitment to amazing clients," said Adrian. "I am thrilled to be part of this agency community, which has fostered a culture of creativity, integrity, and collaboration. I believe it is the perfect environment for delivering integrated and transformative client solutions in an increasingly complex health-sector landscape."Adrian will also work closely with Chantal Bowman-Boyles, under whose leadership FINN Partners London has established its reputation as a leading integrated communications agency and been recognized for outstanding client service and as a best place to work."We are delighted to welcome Julie to the team," said Bowman-Boyles. "Her experience and understanding of health innovators further strengthen our agency's position as a health communications leader in the UK. We look forward to seeing Julie accelerate our growth in this key sector."Adding Adrian will accelerate the UK Health Group's efforts to build on its comprehensive suite of services, including public relations, investor relations, patient advocacy, digital marketing, scientific and medical communications support, and thought leadership. To achieve these goals, Adrian will collaborate closely with existing senior health specialists Mark Chataway, managing partner, Julian Tyndale-Biscoe and Christopher Nial, senior partners, and Darren Jones, partner.Adrian will continue as an Alverium Health board member, and FINN and Alverium will collaborate to support companies that are accelerating early innovation. Alverium brings expertise in clinical, market access, regulatory strategy and execution, and early-stage commercial activities. These resources, combined to FINN's expertise, reinforce the mutual commitment to innovation that can sustain and save people's lives and ensure clients receive the counsel needed to succeed."Julie's appointment marks a significant milestone for FINN Partners as we continue to expand capabilities in global health communications," said Gil Bashe, Chair Global Health and Purpose. "Having added Hyderus to its global community in 2023 and SPAG in 2022, and with Global Health Practice staff now in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, the FINN Global Health Practice has evolved into one of the world's largest health communication agencies. Julie's appointment is a pivotal moment; her energy, experience, and dedication to client success make her an invaluable asset and an addition to our team that will signal to clients that we never rest on our laurels and continue to pursue excellence in service to their goals."

Global independent marketing and communications agency FINN Partners has been appointed by Extreme Hangout, the community climate action platform, as its agency of record to expand the awareness and impact of Extreme Hangout’s COP29 presence – including its main stage, dedicated workshop space, an extensive exhibition area, more than 500 speakers, diverse panels, workshops and more. FINN efforts will focus on driving awareness and attendance at Extreme Hangout events planned for COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.Amber Nuttall, founder, The Extreme Hangout, commented: “We are delighted that FINN Partners will be working closely with us to support our mission to drive climate action. This communications partnership with FINN aligns perfectly in terms of shared values and a joint commitment to sustainable change through the work of our two organisations. We are all aware that COP29 is a critical milestone, and the clock is ticking on our planet’s wellbeing. Through our work with FINN in the lead-up to COP29 in Baku, we will encourage businesses, governments and organisations from around the world, to show their commitment by attending and taking action in Azerbaijan.”Driven by its mission to give young changemakers a voice, popularise the climate movement, and inspire environmental action, Extreme Hangout enables engagement in the sustainability space by organising open-to-all climate action impact forums around the world and curating positive sustainability stories that are shared with its 20 million social media followers each day.Terri Bloore, Senior Partner, Global Purpose and Social Impact Practice, FINN Partners, added: “As regular COP attendees, we know first-hand the importance that this global event can have as a force for genuine change and our shared values, sustainability goals, and experience in the ESG space mean that we are well-placed to support Extreme Hangout in communicating such an important message.At Extreme Hangout events, the organisation brings together thought leaders and changemakers to share the best sustainability practices and highlight actionable solutions to boost knowledge, connections and collaborations that advance climate action.“The work that Amber, Alistair and their team do to empower governments, businesses and global citizens to protect the planet is deep-rooted in their passion and dedication and we are looking forward to supporting them to communicate this important message, as well as contributing to Extreme Hangout’s COP programme through our FINN Partners panel sessions on marketing and communications,” adds Bloore.As part of the Extreme Hangout COP29 Pavilion, FINN Partners will host a series of speaker panels to share creative strategies and insights on how brands can communicate sustainability messaging successfully.The FINN Partners' purpose-related client portfolio includes American Humane, Business Iceland, Destination International, GE Healthcare, Global Cooksafe Coalition, Hello Fresh, IDA Ireland, Mainetti, Natixis, S&P Global Ratings, Tru Earth, Tetra Pak, Verizon, VF Corporation and WWF.

Hong Kong’s Bakehouse by Gregoire Michaud has selected FINN Partners to provide brand strategy and communications consultancy to support the bakery's expansion in the local market.This collaboration marks the second time Bakehouse has engaged FINN Partners for branding and communications support, following their initial partnership in 2020 when the agency led an integrated public relations campaign to strengthen the brand's positioning.“We’re thrilled to be working with Bakehouse again as they take this exciting step in their growth,” said Annouchka Behrmann, Managing Partner, FINN Partners Hong Kong. “Their dedication to craftsmanship is truly inspiring, and we’re partnering to enrich and elevate their brand as they continue to bring their beloved artisanal flavours to more communities around Hong Kong.”Gregoire Michaud, Founder of Bakehouse by Gregoire Michaud, added: “Expanding our business means bringing the tradition and care of Bakehouse to even more corners of Hong Kong. For us, it’s about enriching our brand and staying true to our roots as we grow. Working with FINN Partners again ensures that our brand’s heart and soul are reflected in every step of this journey, and we’re excited to connect even more deeply with our local communities.”(Image: bakehouse.hk)

Leading independent marketing and communications agency FINN Partners has been named Agency of Record for Craft, the supply chain resilience company.Craft will work directly with FINN’s Global Supply Chain practice, a specialized team within its Technology practice that, over the span of 24 years, has worked with more than 70 brands in the supply chain space. Craft selected FINN Partners for its expertise and demonstrable success within its industry along with the FINN team’s strategic thinking and idea quality. This partnership underscores the agency’s proven track record of delivering exceptional results and driving growth and reputation for its clients within the supply chain industry.FINN, which was named to Fast Company’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies list, will provide an integrated communications strategy designed to aggressively grow awareness and understanding of Craft’s brand and offerings. The program will target decision makers and purchase influencers across the supply chain, procurement, finance, regulatory compliance and ESG business functions at large organizations and agencies across the U.S. federal government.“In today’s increasingly volatile world where disruption is constantly lurking around so many corners, supply chain resilience is becoming a top business priority,” said Mimi Spier, CMO of Craft. “Craft’s intelligent supplier risk management solution helps organizations efficiently get ahead of their supplier risk, protect against disruption and simplify business continuity. We are an ideal solution for what the market is demanding, but we need greater awareness quickly. We have no doubt that FINN is the best team to help us achieve that. In fact, we’re astonished at the level of thinking and domain expertise an agency could bring in this space.”FINN’s Global Supply Chain practice works with clients in every facet of the supply chain, including technology-based innovators, consultancies, conferences, logistics and transportation providers, procurement-related companies, the supply chain organizations of Fortune 50 brands and more.“Supply chain has become inextricably linked to business performance, competitive advantage, brand perception and even global issues, such as fair global working practices and environmental responsibility,” said Casy Jones, Managing Partner and Global Supply Chain practice lead at FINN Partners. “The global supply chain is also experiencing foundational change not seen in 40 years as businesses and the U.S. government do the hard work of diversifying our global sources of materials and goods. Craft is uniquely positioned to be at the center of helping these organizations successfully transition, and we’re thrilled about the opportunity to tell that story and help Craft amplify the supply chain successes of their amazing customer base.”The assignment is effective immediately.

Finn Partners has been selected by the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT) as its integrated marketing communications partner in China, as Morocco seeks to increase tourism from the region. The agency will provide comprehensive support, including PR strategy, influencer marketing, social media content creation, event planning, and brand partnerships.With Morocco recently named Africa's top destination in 2023, the country is now setting its sights on becoming one of the world's top 10 most popular tourist destinations by 2026.“Morocco has maintained a long-standing and amicable relationship with China. Traveling to Morocco offers Chinese tourists a truly adventurous journey that includes authentic cultural immersion, natural wonders, diverse outdoor activities, world-class luxury, and a host of wellness and mindfulness experiences," said Hicham Bellaziz, chief representative, ONMT in China.  “We are excited about the appointment and are confident in our ability to establish a strong foundation to elevate ONMT’s marketing efforts to new levels. Through our collaboration, we aim to deliver compelling narratives that capture Morocco's unique charm, and form partnerships to showcase its natural beauty, culture, art and lifestyle,” said Jenny Lo, managing partner, Finn Partners China. Finn Partners will focus on positioning Morocco as an unforgettable destination, showcasing its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and diverse outdoor activities, while highlighting its world-class luxury and wellness experiences. By increasing visibility in the Chinese market, the agency aims to inspire travelers to consider Morocco for their next adventure.(Photo by Anton Mishin on Unsplash)

Finn Partners has welcomed marketing and advertising veteran Mike Ernst as a partner in their Nashville office. In his new role, Ernst will be responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and optimization of media campaigns. This includes developing media strategies to effectively reach target audiences and ensuring cross-channel integration to deliver impactful results for clients. He will report directly to Ashley Blais, the head of media at Finn Partners.With 30 years of experience in planning and implementing campaigns across various media platforms, Ernst brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. Before joining Finn Partners, he served as the group media director at GS&F, a marketing and advertising agency. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with renowned brands such as Bridgestone, Arby’s, Tropical Smoothie Café, the Nashville Predators, and the Tennessee Titans.Commenting on the new appointment, founding managing partner Noah Finn stated, "The media landscape is growing ever more complex. Mike’s deep experience and innovative media approaches will help accelerate our ability to deliver the bold, high-impact solutions clients need to drive growth. We are excited to welcome him to our team."

FINN Partners, a leading global integrated marketing and communications agency, has announced the appointment of Chad Belisario as Vice President for the US Travel Practice. Based in California after years in New York, Belisario doubles as Co-Lead of the FINN West Coast Luxury Travel Team.Belisario arrived at FINN Partners in April 2024, bringing two-plus decades of public relations, marketing, and communications experience focused on travel and hospitality, as well as a keen sense of the evolution of luxury within the industry. He puts it all to work developing PR strategies to ensure the agency meets the goals and exceeds the expectations of its travel clients, including those seeking to capitalize on residential and real estate development.To that end, Belisario heads the account team for Habacoa, soon to be the largest superyacht marina in North America and newest luxury residential community in the Bahamas. Other clients on his plate include Hapuna Estates at Mauna Kea on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii, and Montage Hotels and Resorts in Big Sky, Montana; Park City, Utah; and Bluffton, South Carolina.“I’ve known Chad for years and was delighted for him to join us as we continue to serve clients and look to expand into new travel spaces,” said Jennifer Hawkins, Managing Partner of FINN Partners. “Even with his experience, Chad continues to sharpen his expertise on burgeoning areas of the travel industry, and he is always up for new challenges.”Belisario joined FINN Partners from 5W Public Relations in New York whereas Vice President, Consumer & Emerging Technology he brought travel clients into the agency’s innovation space. Other outfits to benefit from his expertise over the years include Evins Communications, Parasol Marketing, and Millennium Hotels and Resorts, where he was Corporate Director of Brand Communications, North America.The most formative of Belisario’s experiences was his seven-year turn as Communications and Residences Marketing Manager with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, which changed his career trajectory and opened his eyes to the emerging residential sector of travel as he worked closely with developers on branding and taking their products to market. Belisario also spent five years as Director of Admissions, Marketing & Communications at the Harvard Club of New York to get experience in hospitality operations – a move he recommends for travel PR talent on the rise.Raised in Carmel, California, Belisario has long had a passion for food and had hoped to make a culinary career out of it. But instead, he followed his father’s advice to first earn a four-year degree, resulting in Bachelor of Arts in business economics at UC Santa Barbara. He then a earned a Culinary Arts degree from the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City and spent two years in the test kitchens at Hearst Magazines before settling into travel PR for good.Said Belisario of his appointment: “I’m excited to bring the boutique PR mindset that I’ve honed over years to an amazing organization, and to be able to tap into the brain trust of the talented people at FINN Partners.”

FINN Partners, a leading global integrated marketing and communications agency, has announced that David Krejci, CEO and founder of Media Forensics and a 27-year PR veteran, will be joining the firm as Partner.David is a pioneer in managing social media disruption, introducing the industry’s first crisis simulation software in 2010. Krejci later helped introduce digital forensics into the media landscape as a strategy to address the insurgence of misinformation that had become part of the fabric of the Internet. In 2020, David launched his own consultancy, Media Forensics, to push this strategy further. His work has grown alongside the growth in disruption, and now addresses an ever-evolving set of challenges, including:  Mis/disinformation  Polarizing ideologies  Inauthentic accounts  Disruptive technologies  Conspiracy theories  Changes in journalism  Artificial Intelligence  Hostile and mobilized agitatorsAccording to a recent study from Resolver, corporate leaders are aware of these types of risks, but are less aware of their potential for reputational damage, and perhaps even less aware of how to address the problem. The survey of Fortune 500 corporate C-suite leaders found that 80% of survey respondents forecast greater digital risk for their organisations in 2024; 86% fear their brands will face multiple reputational risks; and 66% believe these risks will stem from misinformation.To address these realities, media forensics starts by gathering data from more than 50,000 sources online. Next, AI renders the data consumable for human analysis. Media forensics experts—skilled in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and fluent in the deeper web—scour that data to identify the methods and motives behind the individuals and groups that are relevant to a client’s business. Coupling this forensic analysis with an expert understanding of the immediate cultural landscape completes the investigation. Results and recommendations are delivered, arming clients with the information and tools needed to develop an informed strategy and playbook for crisis mitigation or creative campaigning.Media forensic work at FINN will fall into three offerings:Campaign Readiness: identifying potential blowback before a creative launch, thereby allowing the campaign to focus on resonant audiences rather than exhausting resources on dissonant individuals or groups; deliverables can include crisis simulation training and playbooks, channel strategy recommendations or alterations to the creative if neededCrisis Mitigation: forensic analysis of key players in a crisis, including the method and motive behind their actions, to better anticipate and mitigate crises; deliverables can include risk intelligence reports, forensic monitoring and crisis messaging guidanceForensic Monitoring: augmenting traditional social listening dashboards by forensically investigating method, motive and role of groups and individuals relevant to the brand; deliverables can include daily, weekly and monthly reports, crisis reporting and strategy, and risk intelligence counsel“The traditional methods of managing the current disruptions in our media ecosystem were largely built to handle a far different time,” said Krejci, “a time before intractable conspiracies and divisions; before algorithms, bots, gen-AI, and deepfakes; before TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Discord, Telegram, MeWe, 4chan, 8kun. Misinformation and disruptive technologies have existed for centuries, but the dissemination of misinformation today is so complex, broad and voluminous that traditional methods to manage it are grossly out-muscled. A media forensics strategy is what we believe our clients need and deserve to combat this ever-changing and volatile environment.”Krejci will help provide media forensics services, consulting and preparedness to FINN Partners clients to help address mis/disinformation, crisis mitigation, and campaign readiness in 2024.

Global independent marketing and communications firm FINN Partners has acquired Claudine Colin Communication, a 25-person Paris-based PR agency focused on the arts and culture. The firm will be known as Claudine Colin Communication, A FINN Partners Company, and work alongside the sector-leading arts practice of FINN, headed by Philippa Polskin.Claudine Colin Communication, founded in 1990, is the leading arts PR firm in France and has been a long-term partner of Polskin Arts. CCC represents prestigious arts organizations in France, Europe, and abroad, including Musée national Picasso-Paris, musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac, Pinault Collection, Palais de Tokyo, The Rencontres d'Arles, LUMA Arles, Lafayette Anticipations, Fondation Cartier, Centre Pompidou-Metz, Musée du Louvre-Lens, Mucem, Musée Marmottan Monet, Ateliers Jean Nouvel, Beaux-Arts de Paris, Fondation Pernod Ricard, Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris, Cultural Olympiad for Paris 2024, 17th Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art, Art Basel across all shows (Paris, Basel, Miami, Hong Kong), and Fondation Beyeler. "We already have one of the largest and most esteemed arts practices in the PR agency world, and we are excited to expand and deepen this work by having Claudine and her team join us. We are also very pleased to enhance our presence in Paris. We currently have 15 people in that office, who work with sustainability, technology, consumer and health clients. Now we have added the premier practice in the French arts sector, and together we have 40 people in Paris. We look forward to working together as one team," said Peter Finn, CEO and Founder of FINN Partners.Claudine Colin said: "I founded Claudine Colin Communication over 30 years ago and developed the business both in France and internationally with a professional and committed team to support managers in the artistic and cultural sphere, both public and private, in designing and implementing the communication and influence strategy for their projects."I am delighted to announce that my team and I are joining FINN Partners, with whom we share the values of high standards, rigor and independence. We have worked closely with Polskin Arts, A FINN Partners company, for many years in the field of art and culture. It is a natural next step for us to join forces and further extend the scope of the select international projects on which we already collaborate.""Together we will offer our clients expertise in the fields of art and culture in Europe, the United States and Asia. With my trusted team, especially Anne-Sophie Decronumbourg and Anne Monéger-Laval, deputy directors, we will continue to develop our business alongside our clients, with whom we have long-standing partnerships based on our reputation for delivering excellent service that achieves real influence, recognition and public success."Philippa Polskin, who helped bring the firms together, said: "Claudine Colin Communication is recognized everywhere as the unchallenged leader in arts PR in France, as well as a major force in cultural communications throughout Europe. We welcome CCC warmly and are eager to continue our long history of collaboration with Claudine and her team, working side by side with them at FINN Partners at what is truly the forefront of cultural communications."   Polskin Arts, recognized as one of the world's largest and most prominent cultural PR practices, has a distinguished and extensive client base in the US and around the world, and for decades has worked on international projects in close collaboration with the sector-leading partner CCC in Paris, and the extensive FINN Partners network around the globe. The FINN Partners acquisition of Claudine Colin Communication coincides with the recent and ongoing strategic expansion of Polskin Arts, which has added key senior executives and extended its deep connections to all areas, for-profit and not-for-profit, of the rapidly evolving field of arts and culture.Claudine Colin Communication will be part of FINN Partners EMEA, led by Chantal Bowman-Boyles. With the addition of CCC, FINN Partners EMEA will have total fees of about $27 million and total staff of about 270 people. CCC will work closely with Polskin Arts to expand the FINN Partners practice in the arts and culture sector."France is the global center of art and culture, and we are proud and excited to have Claudine's team, with their unique knowledge and expertise, join us. Our office in Paris has a great reputation for delivering high-quality client service and for long-lasting client relationships – both attributes we share with CCC. I have enjoyed getting to know Claudine and her team over the last few months, and I am confident that together we will achieve even greater successes in France and across the region," added Chantal Bowman-Boyles.

Global marketing and communications giant FINN Partners has announced the launch of FINN Luxe, a specialized offering catering to the unique needs of the global luxury sector.This cross-sector initiative leverages FINN Partners' existing expertise in premium and luxury brands, spanning industries like travel, wellness, food & beverage, fashion, beauty, and more.FINN Luxe goes beyond traditional marketing by incorporating FINN Partners' established art division and its purpose & social impact practice. This holistic approach allows FINN Luxe to:Craft culturally relevant communication strategies that resonate with today's luxury consumers who increasingly value purpose-driven brands.Navigate the complexities of the luxury market, which faces challenges like diversification and the growing importance of social and environmental responsibility.The newly launched practice has already secured its first major client, Habacoa, a superyacht marina development. This adds to FINN Partners' already impressive luxury portfolio, which includes names like Mandarin Oriental, The Dorchester Collection, Berry Bros. & Rudd, and Bloomingdales.The luxury playbook 2024: Charting the courseTo mark the launch of FINN Luxe, the agency has released "The Luxury Playbook 2024." This comprehensive report, developed in collaboration with FINN's global intelligence teams and market research firm Mintel, provides valuable insights into the current state and future trends of the luxury industry.FINN Partners CEO & Founding Partner, Peter Finn, said: "Our teams around the world have had the privilege to support premium and luxury brands for many years now. As FINN Partners grows, it is important for us to show that we value and nurture the deep knowledge and experience needed to guide our clients across luxury lifestyle sectors.""From branding to PR to thought leadership and digital marketing, the mission of FINN Luxe is to combine the best of both worlds: the network of a global firm and the niche knowledge of a boutique agency. Our point of view on luxury is clear. Whether we communicate on heritage, design, craftsmanship, service, experience, innovation or values, we do it with authenticity and cultural relevance," said Gregory Cole, Senior Partner for Luxury EMEA.

Finn Partners, a global integrated marketing and communications agency, has announced significant leadership changes in the Asia Pacific region. These moves aim to solidify their presence and drive further growth.Previously a senior partner, Annouchka Behrmann has been instrumental in securing new clients for Finn's Hong Kong office since joining in 2023. Now, as the new Managing Partner, she'll lead the agency's Hong Kong operations. Her focus will be twofold:Strengthening Finn's position in key sectors like travel & tourism, hospitality, design, wellness, and luxury.Expanding service offerings, particularly in corporate communications and purpose-driven campaigns.Behrmann reports to Howard Solomon, the founding partner overseeing Asia for Finn Partners.Cathy Feliciano-Chon, previously a Managing Director, will now focus on propelling business development, brand strategy, and thought leadership initiatives across the entire Asia Pacific region. Since joining Finn in 2019, she's played a key role in establishing Finn as a leading global travel & tourism agency and managing a portfolio of prestigious brands.Feliciano-Chon reports to both Solomon and Peter Finn, the agency's CEO and founding managing partner."Cathy's expanded role strengthens our regional leadership and positions us for long-term, sustainable growth across APAC," said Solomon, highlighting her extensive experience, proven leadership, and vast network as invaluable assets.Peter Finn acknowledges the crucial role strong leadership plays in their phenomenal growth across Asia. He emphasizes the unparalleled market knowledge and exceptional client service offered by Cathy, Annouchka, and their fellow Asia Pacific leaders.Finn concludes by highlighting Finn Partners' advantages:Extensive regional presenceDeep expertise across various sectors"One Finn" model – providing integrated, full-service solutions with agility and collaborationThese strengths, according to Finn, position them perfectly as the go-to agency for clients seeking top-tier marketing communications solutions.