Choy, who has spent 10 years at Edelman, is credited with leading the agency to over 30 per cent growth over the past two years. A new permanent MD will be announced in mid-March. Regional CEO Alan VanderMolen said the shift is being accompanied by moves to make Singapore a hub for regional clients. Amanda Goh has been given responsibility for the corporate practice, while Sanjay Nair joined from Text 100 Delhi in late 2004 to take charge of technology. A new healthcare head is also expected to arrive shortly.
"I'm seeing more signs of life and economic activity since the Asian financial crisis, so the market is primed but it needs a fresh look," said VanderMolen. "We're talking about Southeast Asia as a whole, with Singapore as a hub.... It is important that we have a multi-market point of view based out of Singapore."
In addition, VanderMolen pointed to the Singapore Government's status as one of the biggest spenders on PR in Asia-Pacific.
The agency also recently renewed its affiliate deal with Philippine agency Eon.
Edelman's Choy takes sabbatical
Edelman managing director Sharolyn Choy has left for a six-month leave of absence. Choy's post will be filled in an interim capacity by John Holland, crisis, issues management and training head for Southeast Asia.