Edelman, the world’s largest independent communications firm, has announced a series of strategic global leadership appointments aimed at accelerating growth, innovation, and trust in a rapidly evolving communications landscape.
“These leadership appointments mark an important new chapter for Edelman as we double down on innovation, global growth, and trust,” said Richard Edelman, CEO. “Each of these leaders brings unique strengths that will help us move forward in a rapidly changing communications landscape.”
Matthew Harrington Appointed Executive Vice Chairman
A 41-year veteran of Edelman, Matthew Harrington has been appointed Executive Vice Chairman. Previously serving as Global President and COO, Harrington will focus on strengthening relationships with Edelman’s largest clients, acting as a senior counselor to C-suites and boards. Over his tenure, Harrington has advised major clients such as Samsung, Microsoft, eBay, and Starbucks, guiding them through pivotal business transformations.
“Matt has been my partner for more than four decades and a key force in our success and trajectory over that timeframe. He has helped our firm, and our clients navigate defining moments, including 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis and the recovery from Covid,” said Edelman.
“Through his work as a client and CEO counselor, he has helped elevate the role and strategic significance of communications. His global perspective, deep relationships, and steady leadership make him uniquely suited to strengthen our most important client partnerships and drive growth across the network. I am grateful that our clients and our leaders will continue to benefit from Matt’s contributions in this next phase of his distinguished career.”
“I look forward to this next chapter and the opportunity to focus on my passion – what has kept me deeply engaged over my tenure – counseling our clients,” said Harrington.
“It has been an honor to serve as COO these past 14 years and I’m grateful to Richard, our leadership team and many colleagues for making it so rewarding. I’m excited about Edelman’s ability to continue shaping the future of communications at this transformational time.”
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Mainardo de Nardis Named Global President and Chief Operating Officer
Mainardo de Nardis brings decades of global media and communications experience to his new role as Global President and COO. De Nardis will oversee client growth, financial performance, and global strategy, while ensuring excellence across Edelman’s worldwide network. With prior leadership roles at Omnicom Media Group, OMD Worldwide, Aegis Media, and MEC at WPP, de Nardis is well-positioned to guide Edelman through its next phase of growth.
“I’ve known Mainardo for 30 years and he is a seasoned executive who has deep CMO relationships. He knows what they want, and he understands the evolving landscape and the needs of our clients,” said Edelman.
“He brings deep conviction to our continued evolution and the power of our global network. As President and COO, he will work with me to chart Edelman’s next phase of growth and extend our leadership in helping clients earn stakeholder trust. Mainardo is a truly global leader who has built his career across Milan, London, and New York.”
“Edelman has a singular role in shaping trust between companies, brands, and society,” said de Nardis.
“I look forward to working across the entire global network to help guide our strategy, deepen relationships with clients and communities, and extend Edelman’s cultural impact while ensuring the firm thrives during this exciting period of transformation.”
Brian Buchwald Appointed President, Global Transformation and Performance
Brian Buchwald, previously Global Chair of Product and AI at Edelman, has been promoted to President, Global Transformation and Performance. In this role, Buchwald will lead the modernization of Edelman’s service delivery, operationalize innovation, and integrate AI and technology to deliver enhanced client value.
“Brian is a rare talent who has put us far ahead in AI,” said Edelman.
“He is operationalizing the technology across teams and workflows in a way that reflects real cultural and capability shift. His early work to redefine the value of earned media and to initiate a new flywheel approach has already helped us take marketing spend from ad agencies and reshaped how we think about communications.”
“We are at a once-in-a-generation moment for our industry,” said Buchwald.
“I am proud of the groundbreaking work our teams have done to apply AI and data-driven insights to client challenges, and I look forward to helping Edelman lead the way in defining what transformation means for communications and for trust.”
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