Weber Shandwick Names Cathy Calhoun Chief Client Officer; Appoints Sara Gavin President, North America

NEW YORK, Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Weber Shandwick, one of the world's leading global public relations firms, today announced it has named Cathy Calhoun to the new global role of Chief Client Officer and Sara Gavin as president, North America, effective immediately.

Calhoun, previously Weber Shandwick's president, North America, has been with the firm for 21 years. She is charged with deepening relationships with key clients, across practice areas and geographies. Calhoun reports to Weber Shandwick CEO Andy Polansky.

"Exceptional client service has always been a Weber Shandwick hallmark, and Cathy has been instrumental in building strong relationships with many of our leading clients. She is highly respected for her strong strategic leadership, drive and ability to anticipate and capitalize on the fast-changing business environment," said Polansky. "I'm confident that Cathy will have a significant impact in this vitally important role as we aim to deepen our relationships with valued business partners around the globe."

Gavin, previously president of Weber Shandwick's Minneapolis office, has been with the firm nearly 30 years. In that time she has served key clients across North America as she has built an operation renowned for its expertise in financial services, government, agriculture, consumer work and digital innovation. She will have responsibility for the firm's operations across the U.S. and Canada. She reports to Gail Heimann, president, Weber Shandwick.

Said Polansky: "Sara's keen focus on strategically marshaling our firm's talent and resources on behalf of clients, and her strong track record in building a vibrant culture and business environment are qualities she will bring into this expanded role. She embodies the collaborative spirit that binds our teams and sets our firm apart."

Eric Pehle, executive vice president and general manager for the firm's Minneapolis office, will continue in his role managing operations there.

About Weber Shandwick
Weber Shandwick is a leading global public relations firm with offices in 81 countries around the world. The firm has won numerous awards for innovative approaches and creative campaigns including being named both The Holmes Report's 2012 Global Agency of the Year and the "Most Creative PR Firm in the World," based on the agency's first-place finish in its "Creative Index," as well as PR News' 2012 Digital PR Firm of the Year. Major practice areas include consumer marketing, healthcare, technology, public affairs, financial services, corporate and crisis management. The firm has deep, award-winning expertise in social media and digital marketing that helps drive engagement. Weber Shandwick is part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG). For more information, visit http://www.webershandwick.com.

Contact: Jennifer Norton
Company: Weber Shandwick
Phone: 212.445.8314
Email: jnorton@webershandwick.com

SOURCE Weber Shandwick