https://theprpost.com/post/16169/

APCO appoints Kelly Williamson as Chief Client Officer

APCO has announced a series of leadership appointments spanning its global and North America business, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering integrated, client-centered advisory services at scale.“These changes put seasoned and trusted leaders in position to secure the full strengths of APCO, and ensure clients achieve their bold ambitions,” said APCO CEO Brad Staples.Kelly Williamson has been named chief client officer and global president of capital markets. In the newly created role, Williamson will lead Global Client Leadership, a new operating model designed to deliver for key clients, with clearer accountability and an integrated approach that deploys the full firm. She will also lead APCO’s global Capital Markets and Competition practices, including Camarco, and financial advisory teams around the world. Williamson will continue to serve as APCO’s North America president during a transition period.“Clients don’t think about their challenges in terms of our org chart, and increasingly, neither can we,” said Williamson. “Capital markets pressure, from investors, activists and competitors, is now inseparable from the broader strategic challenges our clients are managing, and this new structure lets us show up for them as one firm, with the right expertise, wherever they need it.”Kelly Stepno has been named deputy president, North America. In this role, Stepno will work closely with Williamson on the region’s client and business priorities. Stepno will assume full leadership of the North America region in mid-2027.“I’m excited to take on this role and grateful for the opportunity to help lead APCO’s next chapter in North America. We have a strong foundation to build on,” said Stepno. “My focus is on making sure our North America team continues to demonstrate best practice in our client relationships, our talent and our operations, while strengthening the collaboration and connectivity that make APCO successful as one global firm.”Vusi Moyo will take on the role of managing director of APCO’s Midwest region from Stepno in mid-2027. Moyo will continue to strengthen the office’s business, deepening client relationships and building a more connected team.“With one of the country’s largest concentrations of major corporate headquarters, Chicago and the broader Midwest are central to the global organizations we serve,” said Moyo. “Our team has consistently earned the confidence of clients by delivering exceptional work and anticipating what they will need next. I am proud of what this team has accomplished and excited to build on that foundation by creating new opportunities, deepening client partnerships and growing our business across the region.”Hannah Morecraft has been named managing director of APCO’s South region, effective immediately, and will lead the office through its next phase of growth and market expansion. Morecraft has built deep relationships with business, government and civic leaders across the market. Courtney Crowder, who has overseen APCO’s business in Raleigh, will now focus his time on market development in his continuing roles as managing director of APCO’s Washington, D.C., office and chair of Advocacy.“The South is one of the most dynamic and consequential markets in the country, and our clients are navigating increasingly complex business and policy challenges as they grow. Our team consistently brings the depth and breadth of APCO to help clients here succeed,” said Morecraft. “The team based in Raleigh is ambitious, connected and deeply rooted in the region, and I am excited to lead our continued growth across the South.”Together, the appointments reflect APCO’s continued investment in its leaders and the capabilities that help clients navigate an increasingly complex, global operating environment.
https://theprpost.com/post/7059/

APCO expands European operations with new Kyiv office

Public affairs and communications specialist APCO announced the expansion of its European operations with a new office in Kyiv, Ukraine. The office will be led by Sonya Soutus, (pictured), a global expert in corporate and government relations with deep experience in Ukraine.Soutus brings over 30 years of experience in communications, public affairs, and brand management for multinational corporations. She has held leadership positions both in-house and at agencies, managing diverse areas like M&A communications and corporate social responsibility.Soutus' background in Ukraine is extensive. She previously served as a director at Burson-Marsteller in Kyiv, where she played a key role in public education programs and establishing the agency's presence in the country. Her experience also includes serving as the first press officer for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and working as a director at Teneo.APCO's Kyiv team will focus on guiding international investors and businesses in key sectors like energy, technology, and agriculture. They will also offer expertise in government engagement, strategic communications, and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape as Ukraine progresses towards EU membership."Despite ongoing challenges, Ukraine's economic resilience and growth potential are undeniable. Our clients are seeking deeper insights and local expertise to navigate Ukraine's opportunities. We're also seeing Ukrainian companies seeking to connect with European markets and attract foreign investment. APCO's experience in Ukraine positions us perfectly to address these needs," said APCO CEO Brad Staples. Soutus echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team's commitment to client success: ?Ç£We are excited about the opportunities that our new presence in Kyiv will bring. Our mission is to enable businesses to succeed in Ukraine by providing them with the insights and strategies they need to thrive in this dynamic market. APCO has an integrated offer of strategic services and a truly global presence which we know will provide significant added value to our clients.?Ç¥