Edelman Canada announces appointment of new CEO, John Clinton

We’re extremely pleased to announce the appointment of our new CEO, John Clinton. For more info, read the full news release below.

Edelman Appoints John Clinton as CEO, Canada

- Former Grey Worldwide Canada CEO joins Edelman to expand Canadian operations -

June 10, 2011 (New York) – Edelman, the world’s largest independent public relations firm, today announced that John Clinton has been appointed as chief executive officer of Edelman Canada, effective August 17. Clinton, who will be based in Toronto, will report to Gail Becker, chair, Latin America and Canada.

Clinton is a proven leader of global advertising, communications and media companies. Most recently, he was senior vice president, Digital Solutions and New Media for Transcontinental Media, one of Canada’s largest print and digital media companies. Prior to that, Clinton served as president and CEO of Grey Worldwide Canada from 1999-2008, where he managed more than 130 employees across Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, working with clients including RIM, P&G, Invesco, Starbucks and Dairy Queen.

“We’ve seen a convergence of the PR, advertising and digital businesses,” said Richard Edelman, president and CEO, Edelman. “We are breaking the mold with John, who will help expand our remit among marketing and communication officers.”

Clinton assumes responsibility for Edelman Canada at a time of significant growth. Edelman – with offices in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver – grew 17% in 2010 and has 160 professionals, representing leading Canadian and international brands such as RIM, Labatt, Starbucks, Kraft, Unilever and Pfizer.

“John’s leadership and significant expertise in advertising and media provides him with a keen understanding of how to reach audiences via creative, content and digital, ensuring that the firm continues to grow and innovate in Canada on behalf of our clients,” said Becker.

Prior to Grey, Clinton worked for J Walter Thomson from 1979-1999, where he last served in a dual capacity as chairman, Canada and worldwide director for Kellogg’s in New York. Throughout his tenure at JWT, he played a key role among the executive leadership of the organization, holding several senior positions including executive vice president/general manager, Chicago and president and CEO, Canada, as well as serving on the JWT worldwide Board of Directors. He was responsible for business development, client management and team building, with key accounts including Kraft, Dell, Discovery Channel, Unilever and Kellogg’s.

“With more than 30 years in advertising, publishing and communications, I have seen first-hand the evolution of public relations from being an afterthought in strategy and planning to taking the head seat at the table,” said Clinton. “The business and practice of PR have changed dramatically, and Edelman has been at the forefront of helping clients navigate the changing landscape. I look forward to working with the team in Canada and across the global network to help our clients benefit from the increasing opportunities sourced from digital and social media, as well as the firm’s public engagement approach.”

Clinton is past Chairman of the Special Olympics Festival – the fundraising arm for the Special Olympics in Canada – and currently sits on its National Board. He also sits on the Boards of the Power Plant (Contemporary Art Gallery of Canada) and George P. Johnson Experience Marketing.

Clinton holds a BA in Urban Geography from Queen’s University at Kingston.