Edelman: World's Largest Independent PR Firm Profile

Edelman is a public relations firm founded in Chicago in 1952 by Daniel J. Edelman and headquartered in New York. Richard Edelman has been CEO since 1996, and the firm describes itself as independent and family owned, with more than 6,000 employees in 66 offices across 28 countries, per Richard Edelman's company biography. Edelman announced a leadership reshuffle on October 6, 2025, naming Mainardo de Nardis global president and COO.

Originally published October 2009. Updated October 17, 2026.

Who leads Edelman?

Edelman's company biography says Richard Edelman was named CEO in 1996, taking over from his father, who stayed chairman until his death in 2013, and that he was inducted into the American Advertising Hall of Fame in 2022. In its October 6, 2025 announcement, Edelman named Matthew Harrington executive vice chairman, Mainardo de Nardis global president and chief operating officer, and Brian Buchwald president of global transformation and performance. PRWeek reported that de Nardis, a board member for the past five years, took over Harrington's roles on October 13, and that Harrington would focus on the largest global clients.

What happened with Edelman's layoffs and revenue?

Campaign reported in December 2024 that Edelman was laying off 330 employees, about 5.3% of its workforce, after expecting 2024 revenue to fall about 8% in the U.S. and 3% globally. It reported 2023 global revenue of $1.037 billion. PRWeek later reported a 5% drop to $986 million in 2024, and an 8% decline in the U.S. to $588 million.

Who owns Edelman?

The firm says it remains independent and family owned. Richard Edelman's biography calls him chairman of Daniel J. Edelman Holdings, the firm's holding company. Because the company is private, EPR could not find a source for Richard Edelman's pay, and EPR's Daniel J. Edelman profile covers the founder's history.

How does Edelman compare with other global PR networks?

Peer profiles include Burson, FleishmanHillard, Golin Ketchum, MSL, Ogilvy PR and Havas Red. Large independents include Finn Partners, Ruder Finn, We. Communications and MikeWorldWide. For crisis and corporate competitors, see Brunswick Group, FGS Global, Joele Frank, Kekst CNC and Teneo. EPR's Edelman Trust Barometer analysis covers its research.

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