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.

APCO, a global advisory and advocacy firm, announced that John Defterios, the award-winning former CNN emerging markets editor and energy correspondent and longtime senior advisor to the firm, has been named chairman of APCO in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.“Clients around the world increasingly see MENA as a region of growing economic, political and strategic importance, and they are looking for insights and strategic help to engage it effectively, while clients within the region are looking to forge their optimal place on the world stage,” APCO President and Chief Operating Officer Evan Kraus said. “As a fully integrated global and cross-disciplinary firm, APCO is in a prime position to help clients navigate this increasingly complex and consequential geo-commercial environment. John’s appointment as chairman supercharges that capability, given his unmatched experience with these global dynamics and the relationships needed to help clients achieve their ambitions within them.”“I have watched APCO’s expansion across the Middle East and other high-growth markets with great interest and respect since I first joined the firm as a senior advisor in 2021,” said Defterios. “My focus is on MENA clients, but it’s equally important to APCO’s global portfolio: the region is a fast-growing global financial, trade, energy and artificial intelligence hub. I look forward to helping APCO’s clients everywhere make sense of a region being reshaped by the energy transition, new investment corridors and geopolitical realignment—and to working even more closely with such a talented global team at APCO.”Defterios first joined APCO in July 2021 as a senior advisor. Across more than three decades working at the intersection of business, government, energy, trade and geopolitics, he has developed a deep understanding of MENA and other high-growth markets, as well as trusted relationships with senior leaders across the public and private sectors. Before joining APCO, he served as CNN’s emerging markets editor, energy correspondent and anchor, including a decade based in the network’s Abu Dhabi bureau.Defterios also serves as the global lead for APCO’s Storybook Studio, the firm’s in-house content studio, where he draws on his journalism network to help APCO’s team of award-winning international and regional journalists identify, create and distribute live studio coverage from Tier 1 forums and summits, along with branded content series and documentaries for clients across the world on leading television, digital and social media platforms.“John will be joining our MENA team this month, and his mandate is clear and immediate,” said Samer El Hachem, president of APCO in the MENA region. “He will focus on two priorities: supporting our new business efforts, drawing on his deep network across the region, and serving as a senior advisor to our team and clients on an as-needed basis. Having someone with his standing and relationships in this capacity is a real asset for our clients as they plan for the year ahead.”APCO has operated in the MENA region for more than two decades, with teams based in Abu Dhabi, Amman, Doha, Dubai, Manama and Riyadh. The firm advises governments, multinational corporations, sovereign entities and family-owned enterprises on strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management and sustainability across the energy, finance, technology, healthcare, infrastructure and tourism sectors. Defterios’s appointment adds a widely recognized regional voice to that team as APCO enters its next phase of growth in MENA.

Kevin Davidson, award-winning advisor to healthcare executives, has joined global advisory and advocacy firm APCO as a senior director in its Health practice and will be based out of New York and Boston.Davidson brings more than 25 years of experience helping executives across the health sector navigate moments of inflection, define corporate strategy and deliver high-stakes communications and stakeholder engagement, further strengthening APCO’s globally integrated health advisory capabilities.Davidson has a proven track record of supporting emerging biotechnology companies to raise capital and scale, as well as globally recognized brands navigate pivotal moments such as mergers and acquisitions, regulatory milestones, product launches and corporate repositioning efforts. Known for his ability to translate complex science into compelling narratives, Davidson has consistently driven business outcomes, built trust and influenced key stakeholders across U.S. and global markets.Mathew Shearman, Global chair of APCO’s Health practice, welcomed Davidson to the team, stating: “Healthcare leaders are relying on seasoned counselors to help them navigate a market undergoing immense transformation. Kevin is deeply respected in boardrooms and C-Suites for his judgment and ability to orchestrate corporate campaigns that solidify reputation in an increasingly dynamic stakeholder environment. His addition adds to a powerhouse health advisory team helping clients drive meaningful health and business results worldwide.”“Kevin brings a rare combination of strategic insight, deep healthcare expertise and trusted counsel to organizations navigating their most critical moments,” said Brian Ellner, managing director of APCO’s New York office. “His ability to align corporate strategy with clear, compelling communications will be invaluable to our clients as they manage complexity, seize new opportunities and build lasting trust with stakeholders.”“I am excited to join APCO at a time of significant change across the global healthcare sector,” said Davidson. “Organizations are being asked to communicate with greater clarity, move faster and build trust with a broader set of stakeholders. APCO’s integrated, global approach to advisory work is uniquely positioned to meet that need, and I look forward to helping clients navigate these moments and achieve meaningful business and health outcomes.”The deepening bench of health experts at APCO underscores the firm’s commitment to providing world-class health advisory services—leveraging its globally integrated network of experts to help clients navigate the complex and interconnected challenges of the healthcare sector. With decades of global market presence and a proven network of experts around the world, APCO sits at the center of the issues shaping business, policy, reputation and society—helping organizations navigate complexity, build common ground and create lasting impact.

APCO has announced the appointment of Valerie Pinto as its Managing Director for India and Executive Director of Corporate Asia. In this role, Pinto will lead APCO’s operations in India and help shape the strategic direction for its corporate business across Asia.Her responsibilities include advisory, consulting, advocacy, and corporate reputation management, as well as expanding APCO’s presence in dynamic markets. She will work closely with regional teams and global corporate leaders to deliver impactful, purpose-driven initiatives and ensure alignment with both community and corporate goals.Before joining APCO, Pinto served as CEO of Weber Shandwick India, where she focused on creative client solutions, campaign planning with a content-first approach, and applying technology to communications and consultancy programs.Earlier in her career, she was CEO of Perfect Relations, building the agency into one of India’s leading PR firms with strengths in strategy, media relations, corporate affairs, crisis management, and public advocacy. During her tenure, the agency managed a wide range of corporate clients across industries including FMCG, technology, aviation, retail, and financial services.Pinto began her career as a Communications Manager at UTV, where she oversaw corporate communications, internal messaging, media engagement, and profile-building initiatives for the organization.With extensive experience in corporate reputation, advocacy, and strategic communications, Pinto brings deep expertise to APCO as she leads its India business and contributes to corporate strategy across Asia.

Global advisory and advocacy firm APCO has announced a strategic partnership with Columbia University to launch a series of specialist training workshops aimed at professional communicators in the MENA region. The initiative, taking place this October, will bring together the academic expertise of Columbia?ÇÖs School of Professional Studies and the practical insights of APCO Institute to empower 20 mid-level communication professionals.The joint program, delivered by Columbia University faculty and APCO?ÇÖs senior global staff, will consist of four intensive workshops designed to sharpen essential communication skills and prepare participants for the evolving demands of the profession.The sessions will kick off with Leadership Across Cultures, exploring how to navigate the nuances of language, social dynamics, and cultural diversity in global teams. Mastering Influence will delve into communication strategies that leverage social networks and influence to drive innovation. AI and the Future of Strategic Communication will offer practical applications for integrating artificial intelligence into communication planning and execution. The final workshop, Strategic Communication Management, will focus on developing, implementing, and assessing communication strategies across internal and external platforms.?Ç£As technological disruptions continue to transform the communications landscape, this collaboration will equip our clients and colleagues with the tools and insights to navigate complex operating environments,?Ç¥ said Mamoon Sbeih, President of APCO in the MENA region. ?Ç£Through this initiative, we will empower our teams and clients to achieve their goals and maximize impact.?Ç¥Professor Kristine Billmyer, Director of the Strategic Communication Master?ÇÖs Degree Program at Columbia University, added, ?Ç£The centrality of strategic communication to an organization?ÇÖs core mission and functions cannot be underestimated. It defines brand, drives business goals, and powers reputation across industries and sectors around the world. We look forward to strengthening ties with PR professionals in this critical region of the world.?Ç¥Established in 2022, the APCO Institute aims to build strategic communications capabilities for professionals by offering exposure to international best practices, practical tools, and cutting-edge knowledge. In addition to professional development workshops, the Institute provides coaching for senior executives, government officials, and technical experts to effectively engage key stakeholders.APCO Institute?ÇÖs continued partnerships with leading global academic institutions underscore its commitment to elevating the role of communication in advancing business and policy outcomes. This latest collaboration with Columbia University reinforces the Institute?ÇÖs mission to shape the next generation of communication leaders in the MENA region and beyond

Danny Phan, an award-winning professional with more than 20 years of international experience across Asia and the United States, joined APCO.  ?Ç£We are thrilled to welcome Danny to APCO. His extensive experience across different markets and sectors will be invaluable to clients and colleagues alike,?Ç¥ APCO CEO Brad Staples said. ?Ç£We are confident that Danny?ÇÖs strategic insight and expertise will enhance our client service offerings, and his leadership will inspire our team to drive our mission forward.?Ç¥  Prior to joining APCO, Phan served as the global chief strategy officer and managing director of the Asia Pacific region at Wachsman, a Web3, blockchain and fintech consultancy. Phan built a career advising world-leading brands on critical reputational issues and navigating complex challenges in frontier and emerging markets, as well as new and highly regulated industries pushing the boundaries of innovation and regulation.  ?Ç£APCO has set the gold standard in public affairs, policy advisory and advocacy. What sets APCO apart is its relentless focus on the future and its ability to integrate transformative technologies into advisory work?Çöexactly what clients need today,?Ç¥ said Danny Phan. ?Ç£While others are still discussing AI, APCO has been ahead of the curve since 2018 with its AI Labs, integrating AI, predictive geopolitical forecasting and data-driven stakeholder analysis to address clients?ÇÖ challenges. This firm isn?ÇÖt just keeping up; it?ÇÖs outpacing the competition with unmatched talent, and innovative solutions. Joining APCO means stepping into the future of advisory work, and I am excited to bring my passion for innovation and strategy to this team.?Ç¥ Phan has advised world-leading brands such as Coca-Cola, Airbnb, Unilever, Sumitomo, SEA Group, Shell and leading financial institutions on some of their biggest reputational issues, from sustainability and social impact, energy transitions, digital transformation, change management and risk and crisis management. His work in the tech sector has been particularly impactful, advising major companies, including one of Southeast Asia?ÇÖs largest ride-hailing companies, Airbnb and the Asia Internet Coalition, on policy and regulatory communications.  Phan began his career in New York before taking on leadership roles across Asia. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including ?Ç£Young PR Professional of the Year?Ç¥ at the Asia Pacific PR Awards and a place in Campaign Asia?ÇÖs ?Ç£40 Under 40?Ç¥ recognition.  In addition to Phan, Chin Ann Ho is also joining APCO as a senior director. Ho previously worked at Wachsman, where he oversaw the firm?ÇÖs operations in Singapore, building and managing high-performing teams that delivered award-winning work at the intersection of technology, finance and policy. Ho has advised leading companies in technology and finance, such as HP, VMware, SAP, DBS, SC Ventures, SGInnovate, Elevandi (now GFTN) and Nanyang Technological University. He has been instrumental in launching significant campaigns across the Asia Pacific, guiding companies through key growth and transformation phases.

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¥

Global communications consultancy APCO Worldwide has announced a leadership change in Southeast Asia. JJ Lee, who served as Managing Director since 2022, has departed the firm, per media reports.An APCO spokesperson has said that over the past five years, JJ played a valuable role in driving APCO?ÇÖs growth across the region.?Ç¥ This announcement coincides with the appointment of Ian Rumsby as Chief Client Officer for Southeast Asia. Rumsby brings extensive experience to the role and will be responsible for leading and managing the regional team.?Ç£APCO boasts a team of exceptionally talented professionals across Southeast Asia,?Ç¥ the spokesperson continued. ?Ç£We?ÇÖre confident that Ian, working closely with APCO Asia Chairman Masayo Nagai, will further strengthen our Southeast Asia leadership team for the long term.?Ç¥Lee joined APCO in 2019, while her former spouse, James Yi, left the firm last year.

Chris Torrens, a veteran risk and compliance expert with more than two decades of experience providing strategic advice for multinational clients across industries, joined APCO as the managing director of Greater China, Chairman of the Asia Region Masayo Nagai announced today.?Ç£With decades of experience and a proven track record of helping global clients navigate risks, enter new markets and seize critical opportunities, Chris brings deep knowledge of crucial geopolitical and regulatory considerations for businesses operating across China, as well as in emerging markets in the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia,?Ç¥ Nagai said.Prior to joining APCO, Torrens was a partner at Control Risks, where he led the geopolitical risk and compliance teams in EMEA and Greater China for 18 years. Prior to Control Risks, Torrens served as a Shanghai-based associate director in PricewaterhouseCoopers?ÇÖ advisory practice and as the Hong Kong-based head of research at Batey Burn, a UK government relations and public affairs consultancy, which was acquired by APCO in 1999.?Ç£I have always loved working in China, especially helping companies to understand and succeed in this complex market. To have the opportunity to join APCO?ÇÖs hugely experienced local team and be a part of one of the most reputable advisory and advocacy firms worldwide is a privilege: I look forward to serving as a trusted advisor to our clients during this fast-changing period in global geopolitical and trade relations.?Ç¥Torrens has lived in Greater China for nearly 25 years. He holds an MBA from the China-Europe International Business School and a BA Honours degree in Modern Chinese Studies from Leeds University. His book, ?Ç£Doing Business in China,?Ç¥ was published by The Economist in 2010.Torrens joins APCO during a milestone moment for the firm. In celebration of its 40th anniversary, APCO recently launched a new brand identity, looking to the future built on its continued effort to provide advisory and advocacy services that help clients navigate global complexities through building un/common ground? to achieve progress. APCO began as a single-person operation with the idea that clients need to have the freedom to look across the spectrum and not have the solution be defined by the kind of firm they approached. Now, with over 1,200 employees in more than 30 offices worldwide, APCO?ÇÖs global team works together across borders and functions to help clients face the unknown.

After 40 years, APCO throws off the "Worldwide" label in a bold brand refresh. Get ready for a future-focused APCO, built on deep connections, creative problem-solving, and a legacy of driving progress through "un/common ground." "This brand refresh signifies our forward-thinking approach," APCO explains, focusing on guiding clients through intricate issues and fostering "un/common ground" to drive progress. The centerpiece of the new identity is the "Uncommon A," a distinctive element within the logo.This symbol embodies APCO's journey. One side reflects its traditional roots, while the other, missing a leg, represents its commitment to adaptability and creative problem-solving.The name change is not just aesthetic. It conveys the agency's belief that its global reach and deep connections speak for themselves. As clients often highlight, APCO has a unique ability to operate as a unified entity with strong international relationships, providing crucial connections for their success."Our 40-year track record, diverse expertise, and integrated approach speak volumes," says Founder and Executive Chairman Margery Kraus. "Our special culture and character, fueled by our incredible people, shape our perspectives and work. I'm proud of our achievements and thrilled that our new brand reflects our heritage, embraces the future, and embodies the legacy we're building."By embracing change and highlighting its core values, APCO positions itself for continued success in navigating the ever-evolving global landscape.

 Ian Rumsby, one of Australia?ÇÖs most experienced corporate communications advisors, joins APCO as a chief client officer for the Southeast Asia region, based in Sydney, Australia, announced Masayo Nagai, chairman of APCO?ÇÖs Asia region.Rumsby brings deep knowledge and expertise based on more than 20 years of experience helping the world?ÇÖs leading organizations navigate complex engagement assignments in markets across the region.?Ç£Ian is an exceptional professional and we are excited to have him join our team. His expertise and deep ties in Southeast Asia will elevate APCO?ÇÖs ongoing dedication to our clients and help our company continue to grow in the region,?Ç¥ Nagai said. ?Ç£In an ever-changing industry we are always working on transcending ourselves for the benefit of our clients and Ian will elevate our corporate communications offering.?Ç¥Prior to joining APCO, Rumsby served as a managing partner at Stonehaven, a strategy and communications consultancy, where he has worked closely with APCO to provide support and representation in the Australian market on selective assignments. Rumsby previously worked for a large communications firm, where he held many roles?Çöhe chaired operations in Australia, served as the chief strategy officer, lead the firm?ÇÖs social impact service and worked as the regional head of the organization?ÇÖs culture transformation and change management business.The Southeast Asia region is an extremely diverse and competitive region that sits at the center of trade, people, information and capital from around the world. Led by Southeast Asia Managing Director JJ Lee, APCO has established expansive expertise in the communications, energy, education, finance, food, consumer products and retail, health care, philanthropy and technology sectors in the region.?Ç£Ian further augments APCO?ÇÖs market-leading expertise and capabilities?Çösupporting leading clients from multinational companies and international organizations to governments and NGOs?Çöand with our offices in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam, we offer valuable insights to help clients navigate the dynamic challenges and opportunities across the region,?Ç¥ Lee said.Rumsby joins APCO in a milestone year, with the upcoming 40th anniversary of its founding. Founded by Margery Kraus as a single-person operation in 1984, APCO has grown to a global advisory and advocacy consultancy with more than 30 offices worldwide.