The move follows the company’s recent appointment to the Australian federal government’s government communications campaign panel, where it will work with other creative, public relations and federal agencies to develop and implement public campaigns.

Based in Canberra, Donovan will work with Kantar Public’s Asia Pacific co-chief executive Kathy O’Donoghue to oversee campaign strategy and consulting under the new government operating model.

Donovan was acting assistant secretary of the Department of Finance’s communications advice branch prior to joining Kantar Public. He has also worked as director of communications for the Department of Treasury.

Earlier in the year, Kirsty Macmillan joined Kantar Public Australia as managing director, to lead teams across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, ACT, South Australia and Western Australia.

O’Donoghue said: “Craig will be a real asset to our business – bringing significant government communication strategy and campaign development expertise and understanding of the government operating environment. 

“With Craig knowing what is needed for campaigns to drive positive change in our community, he will greatly enhance our ability to assist our government clients to create a safer, fairer, more economically prosperous society as we face the challenges associated with Covid recovery efforts, and beyond.”