 Katie Creaser |
Affect has launched a new practice for companies in the cryptocurrency and blockchain arenas. The agency, which has four years of experience in the blockchain and bitcoin-related sector, is working with organizations conducting Initial Coin Offerings and token sales while also providing support to technology companies serving the digital currency market. Affect senior vp Katie Creaser will lead the new practice offering PR services including launch strategy, media and influencer relations, content development, community management, digital advertising and crisis communications. “We fully believe in the disruptive impact of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies across many industries,” said Affect president Sandra Fathi. “Entrepreneurs need experienced and knowledgeable advisors and partners especially as new regulations are rolled out in this space.”
 Gábor Hegyi |
CEE/SEE communications and branding consultancy Capital Communications and South African reputation management agency DonValley are partnering to launch Impact Branding in South Africa and the Southern African Customs Union. The new venture applies the focus and criteria of impact investing to branding, corporate identity, corpcomms, public affairs and other related disciplines. Capital Communications and DonValley will work jointly to extend and develop the Impact Branding platform, while offering the service to companies, governments and their agencies, organizations, and other stakeholders in South Africa and the southern Africa region. “Companies, organizations, institutions and countries need help to deal with and communicate social and environmental impact, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to make the world a better place. We studied the South African market in detail, and believe that Impact Branding can play a significant role here,” said Capital Communications founder and manager Gábor Hegyi.
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Creative strategy syndicate Dragon Horse Agency has set up shop in Naples, FL. Founded by Patrick Blake Renda and Julie Koester, who will serve as managing partners, the firm is offering comprehensive media and business advisory services. Edward Clay, who is coming on as the firm’s chief creative officer, will also be Dragon Horse’s third managing partner. Renda has held positions in media, retail and institutional investing. His television experience includes working on NBC Sports’ Sports Bowl as well as creating and hosting several regional radio programs. In addition to working in radio, Koester has been a consultant for emerging companies in the retail sector and was founding board chair of the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, where she oversaw all marketing for a capital campaign that raised $27 million. Clay has been a producer and director for video production company EJC Productions as well as director of operations for the Naples International Film Festival. Dragon Horse serves clients nationwide.
DJE Holdings, parent of Edelman and Zeno, launches RUTH as an independent shop named after Ruth Edelman, mental health advocate, wife and longtime business partner of Dan Edelman.
New York City PR firms make up the largest slice of O'Dwyer's 147 firm overall ranking with 33 of 40 in the New York/New Jersey area either calling Manhattan their home or having a presence there.
Subject Matter+Kivvit, which joined forces in May, has rebranded as Avoq, an integrated shop with more than 200 professionals in Washington, New York, Asbury Park (NJ), Miami and Chicago.
While PR pros stationed at in-house comms. teams and those working for agencies share many of the same objectives, they also have markedly different top priorities, according to a recent report.
Edelman is cutting 240 employees or about four percent of its workforce to cope with the cooling down of the PR sector, according to a memo from CEO Richard Edelman.
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