LONDON, Jan. 25, 2010 — Fleishman-Hillard International Communications today appointed Lucien Vallun as Regional Director of its Central and Eastern Europe region. The move is part of a global agencywide initiative to focus on double-digit organic growth over the next five years.
In his new capacity, Vallun will work closely with Fleishman-Hillard Europe’s leadership and individual office teams to ensure that the firm brings its full range of offerings – including digital and social media capabilities – to bear in one of the world’s fastest-growing and most competitive public relations markets.
“Lucien’s appointment underscores the rising importance of Central and Eastern Europe to our growth,” said Dave Senay, Fleishman-Hillard president and chief executive officer. “As the economies of nations like Romania and Slovakia have advanced, the demand for integrated communications has grown rapidly in the private and public sectors. Lucien was the architect of our growing network in Africa and, for the past two years, has played a key role in further building our capabilities and strengthening our brand in London. He is a great choice to lead us in these European growth markets.”
Vallun has served as managing director of Fleishman-Hillard London since October 2007. Prior to that, he served an eight-year tenure as managing director of Fleishman-Hillard South Africa and a 13-year term as managing director of Vallun Wilkins Associates, which he established in Johannesburg in 1985. Fleishman-Hillard Inc. acquired Vallun Wilkins in January 1999, and the name was changed to Fleishman-Hillard South Africa.
Vallun will continue to lead the firm’s London office as he transitions into his new responsibilities. The agency will announce his successor after a thorough internal and external search. “We’ve built a strong and accomplished leadership team in London – one that Lucien has strengthened further since taking the reins there,” said Senay. “Today, London is one of our largest offices and is known for its innovation and client service. With this London team in place, Lucien’s transition will be smooth, and our clients can be assured of the same outstanding service and results that they enjoy today.”
About Fleishman-Hillard
Fleishman-Hillard Inc., one of the world’s leading public relations firms, has built its reputation by using strategic communications to deliver what its clients value most: meaningful, positive, and measurable impact on the performance of their organizations. The firm is widely recognized for excellent client service and a strong company culture founded on teamwork, integrity, and personal commitment. Based in St. Louis, the firm operates throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, South Africa, and Latin America through its 80 owned offices. For more information, visit the Fleishman-Hillard Web site at www.fleishman.com.
Fleishman-Hillard is a part of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com). Omnicom is a leading global advertising, marketing, and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, interactive, direct and promotional marketing, public relations, and other specialty communications services to more than 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries.
