2024 PR News of PR Firms
5WPR celebrated its third year representing Miami Fashion Week® (MIAFW), the second largest fashion event in the U.S., emphasizing fashion, art, sustainability, and innovation. The event draws industry leaders, celebrities, and changemakers for runway shows, networking, and activations alongside other global fashion capitals. 5W supported MIAFW 2024 with national and regional PR, spotlighting shows, designers, and the event’s evolution. Co-CEO Dara A. Busch praised the expansion into streetwear and sustainability, and MIAFW Executive Director Lourdes Fernandez-Velasco commended 5WPR’s creativity and dedication over the partnership. Events included a designer dinner, a press conference at Gary Nader Art Centre, and shows featuring renowned designers like Karl Kani and Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada. Sustainability was a key focus, with a Sustainable Summit and panel discussions exploring fashion and eco-consciousness.
Weber Shandwick has appointed Will Crain as head of CEO communications advisory and promoted Contessa Kellogg-Winters to head of executive visibility in North America, aiming to strengthen the firm’s corporate affairs advisory business. Crain’s role starts in March, focusing on modern CEO agendas, while Kellogg-Winters will lead executive visibility programs. They will collaborate with North America CEO Jim O’Leary and other leaders to offer comprehensive corporate affairs services. O’Leary noted growing demand for C-suite advisory amid geopolitical risks and technological changes. Crain, previously with Edelman, brings expertise in corporate affairs, while Kellogg-Winters, with Weber Shandwick since 2022, focuses on client experience.
Magrino has expanded its client portfolio with the addition of Cuisinart Outdoors and Goslings Rum. The agency will manage campaign-centric projects for Cuisinart Outdoors and enhance the brand story for Goslings Rum with the launch of new products. Additionally, Magrino has welcomed Italian luxury brand House of Pratesi, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, and the grand opening of the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort this summer to its list of clients in various sectors.
Former Hot Paper Lantern president Ted Birkhahn has joined financial communications firm Vested as a managing director, taking charge of a new tech-enabled platform aimed at revolutionizing client engagement for middle-market financial services companies. This move aligns with Vested’s strategy to cater to middle-market financial brands lacking access to comprehensive communication services. Vested previously launched Finance Studio in early 2023, offering tailored creative solutions for middle-market brands. With over 25 years of experience in brand communications and digital marketing, Birkhahn’s appointment underscores Vested’s commitment to enhancing services for financial clients.
