Omnicom PR shop shifts chief to Asia

Omnicom PR agency Brodeur has signalled a greater focus on Asia-Pacific, naming Rick Allen as the network's first regional chief to be based in Asia.

Hong Kong-based Allen joins from a previous role as MD of Brodeur affiliate The EBA Group. Brodeur's Asia-Pacific MD role was previously handled out of San Francisco by Terresa Christenson, who left earlier this year.

The Brodeur/Pleon Worldwide network counts a presence in 13 Asian offices, via equity stakes and affiliates. While its regional strength pales in comparison to larger peers, its Korean InComm Brodeur operation remains highly regarded and it also absorbed sister shop TBWA PR to bolster its India strength in late 2005. Allen will report to CEO Andrea Colville.