The Omnicom PR agency’s CEO Gary Stockman (pictured) said that the move was designed to give the agency’s regional clients a single point of contact.
“We have developed this dual regional model for Asia- Pacific because client requirements and growth dynamics have proved the case for a more flexible, local focus,” said Stockman.
“Many of our regional clients want a single point of contact to manage their regional business, and Singapore and China are typically the bases favoured by our regional and multinational clients.”
The pair have been briefed to develop training and support for PN’s partners, manage the company’s international clients and forge business opportunities with other high-growth regions such as Central and Eastern Europe and South America.
The restructure is an important step forward for Porter Novelli, as the low-profile Omnicom network looks to strengthen its presence in the region.
Another key move came in January when Omnicom acquired a stake in the Shunya Communications after a lengthy courtship.
Omnicom subsequently aligned the PR arm, Shunya International, with Porter Novelli giving the agency more punch in China.
John Orme, who retains the role of Shunya International’s president, will be looking to strengthen Porter Novelli outside China where the network is considered patchy.
Key client Procter & Gamble will serve as a platform on which to expand, particularly in China.
In Southeast Asia, Dixon will hope to build on a decent new business run which has included the acquisition of the Ministry of Community, Youth and Sports in Singapore and Gillette and Fujitsu.
Porter Novelli reshuffles management team
BEIJING - Porter Novelli has restructured its regional management team with the appointment of its Singapore MD Ed Dixon to MD of South Asia and China president John Orme to head up North Asia.
