Powell Tate expands into Australia

Weber Shandwick, one of the world’s leading global communications and engagement firms, has expanded its specialist strategic communications and public affairs firm, Powell Tate, to Australia with a new presence in Sydney. The launch of Powell Tate in the Australian market corresponds with increased demand for deeply specialised public affairs, corporate communications, and crisis and issues management counsel across Weber Shandwick’s client roster.

“A more complex relationship between organisations, government and public stakeholders has accelerated the need for deep expertise and specialisation working at the intersection of these dynamics,” said Weber Shandwick Asia Pacific CEO Baxter Jolly. “Introducing Powell Tate to the Australian market responds to that demand through the provision of insights and ideas grounded in a deep understanding of the political, regulatory and bureaucratic landscape.”

Jacquelynne Willcox, previously director of Weber Shandwick’s Corporate and Public Affairs practice in Australia, will now lead Powell Tate Australia as Executive Vice President. Willcox joined Weber Shandwick in 2011 and has built a highly regarded team of award-winning strategic communications specialists.

“Having partnered with the Powell Tate senior executive team for some time now, I am particularly excited by the opportunity this development brings to our clients and our people,” Willcox said. “We know organisations are in need of experts to help them navigate often complex public policy issues in Australia, and the introduction of Powell Tate into the market affords us the opportunity to focus on that need.”

Commenting on the introduction of the agency to Australia, Powell Tate President Pam Jenkins said, “This is a significant step in the expansion of our service offer to new markets. It comes at a time when our clients are increasingly looking for support, counsel and insights across geographies, and I’m delighted we are now able to deliver that guidance in the Australian market.”

Established in Washington D.C. more than 20 years ago, Powell Tate is one of the most respected public affairs firms in the U.S. In Australia, the agency will be based in Sydney and continue to work closely with Weber Shandwick and its global network.

Weber Shandwick Australia Chairman Ian Rumsby will serve as Chairman of Powell Tate Australia to support collaboration across both agencies. Melbourne General Manager Megan Rosier will lead the Weber Shandwick Australia Corporate Practice and will also continue her role as head of the Technology practice in Australia.

The team at Powell Tate Australia: Back Row, L to R Justin Yuen, Darragh Brennan, Alistair Nicholas. Front Row, L to R Megan McCarthy, Jacquelynne Willcox, Eliza Newton