FleishmanHillard London and Fishburn to Merge
New top 10 UK agency to be called FleishmanHillard Fishburn
LONDON, Nov. 2, 2015 — FleishmanHillard London and Fishburn are to merge, creating a new top 10 London PR agency with over 200 staff, to be called FleishmanHillard Fishburn. It is anticipated that the merger will be formally finalized before the end of the year, with Fishburn’s employees due to move into Omnicom’s Bankside premises in the next two months, allowing the new agency to start 2016 as a fully merged entity.
Jim Donaldson, currently Managing Director of FleishmanHillard’s UK operations will become Chief Executive of the new agency, with Fishburn agency head Ali Gee as Deputy Chief Executive. Bristol based content agency Specialist will continue to operate as a separate unit of FleishmanHillard UK, reporting into Donaldson.
The merger will provide Fishburn’s clients with access to a world class international network whilst also enhancing FleishmanHillard’s Brand Marketing, Corporate and Public Affairs practices in London. Fishburn will also be adding its market leading Corporate Reporting offer to the mix.
Commenting on the merger, Jim Donaldson said: “In a rapidly changing and highly competitive market like the UK, this combination of skills and practices will provide clients with an industry leading team. The synergies between our two agencies are obvious – we bring our fabulous global network to Fishburn and they bring a great track record and an excellent team to enhance our offer in London. This is a really exciting day for all of us and I can’t wait to get started.”
Ali Gee commented: “Our agencies have a great heritage, fantastic clients and some of the best people in the communications business. Importantly, we share the same culture and values, too. Together, we will be able to offer an even more comprehensive service and deeper expertise to our existing and future clients.”