RF Thunder announces China promotions

Communications agency RF Thunder, sister company of Ruder Finn, has promoted Jefferson Hou to Greater China general manager and Cathy Gu to general manager in Shanghai.

Hou, a senior vice president of Ruder Finn Group, has 15 years’ PR and advertising experience. He was previously RF Thunder Shanghai general manager, growing its healthcare and corporate divisions. Hou is also head of Ruder Finn China’s health & wellness practice, and general manager of RF Kyodo China.

“This has been an incredible personal journey as I enter my 9^th year with the Ruder Finn Group, and I am still having fun,” Hou said. “With great teamwork, RF Thunder has been undergoing tremendous transformation as we enter a more digital dominated landscape.”

Gu joined Ruder Finn Guangzhou in 2009, and was responsible for building up its lifestyle practice. She moved to RF Thunder Shanghai last year as senior director of the lifestyle practice, and now takes over from Hou as general manager. She has particular expertise in luxury, beauty, fashion and travel.

“RF Thunder Shanghai has been a great experience for me, especially the team, the clients and the new direction in which we are heading,” Gu said. “With our strong network support and right talents, we now deliver new consulting capabilities beyond what is expected.”

Elan Shou, executive vice president and managing director of Ruder Finn Greater China, said: “Jefferson has been a great asset to us and I have no doubt that in his new role as Greater China head, he will push the boundaries even further. Cathy, with her passion and formidable skills, has already made a tremendous contribution to RF Thunder. I am very proud of both of them and delighted to announce their well-deserved promotions.”