WPP to merge Public Strategies with Hill & Knowlton

The marketing services giant acquired Public Strategies in 2006 for an undisclosed amount and said that the merger of the two firms would create a “distinctive global communications consultancy”.

Public Strategies chairman and founder Jack Martin will be given the role of global executive chairman of H&K, while Paul Taaffe will remain as global CEO of the communications agency. Public Strategies’ president and CEO Dan Bartlett will expand his role to serve as president and CEO of H&K USA and chairman and CEO of Public Strategies.

WPP CEO Martin Sorrell (pictured) said: “H&K and Public Strategies will be a formidable combination and industry leader – combining global expertise and talent with strong financial services, public affairs, research and digital capabilities aimed at chairmen, CEOs, chief marketing officers and corporate communications officers in leading global, multinational, regional and local companies.”

Combined, WPP said, the two firms will have more than 2,300 employees in 83 offices across 44 countries.

WPP said that each company will retain its brand name “for the foreseeable future”.