Saunders role extended to include Edinburgh PR office

THE Edinburgh office of a global PR and public affairs agency has been added to the remit of the company’s Continental Europe and Ireland head.

John Saunders, Fleishman-Hillard regional president for Continental Europe and Ireland has taken on additional responsibility for the firm’s operations in Africa and the United Kingdom, including its Edinburgh office – which has been in operation for 15 years.

Saunders has served in leadership positions within Fleishman-Hillard for more than 20 years. In the UK and Africa, he replaces Kevin Bell, who stepped down from the company last month.

In a statement issued by the company, Dave Senay, CEO and president, is quoted saying: “John Saunders is a key member of our global leadership team, and he is one of our most experienced and most capable managers. His track record of excellent client service, staff career development, and successfully managing across geographies makes him the ideal choice to unite Europe, the UK and Africa under a single leader. John is one of the most respected individuals in our firm. I know he will serve our clients and lead our staff exceedingly well in this expanded role.”

Fleishman-Hillard’s Edinburgh office is headed by Elaine McKean. It has a team of seven people working across both public affairs and public relations. Clients include Rio Tinto Alcan, M&S, RHASS, the Royal Highland Centre and Scottish Development International.