Thirteen to become part of Newgate Communications

Newgate Communications has integrated fellow Porta group company Thirteen Communications, creating a new practice focused on consumer and public engagement.

Thirteen’s managing director Andrew Baiden will become Newgate’s creative director, reporting to chief executive Gavin Devine. As well as building the new consumer practice, Baiden’s remit will be to drive creative thinking and a strong campaigning ethos throughout Newgate’s work.

Devine said: “I am delighted to take the next step in Newgate’s growth by bringing Andrew and his team on board. We already work closely together, so this is a very logical step which will help us ensure that creative thinking and engagement with consumers and the public are at the heart of our offer to clients.”

Baiden said: “We are excited about the opportunity to become part of Newgate, focusing on developing and delivering creative campaigns for our existing and future clients.”

Thirteen was launched as part of Porta in September 2013. The consumer practice will sit alongside Newgate’s existing financial PR and investor relations, corporate communications and crisis support, public affairs, local stakeholder engagement and regional PR.