Edelman’s Nick Barron joins MHP Communications as deputy CEO

MHP Communications has appointed Nick Barron, Edelman’s corporate reputation managing director, as deputy CEO.

He will work closely with CEO Alex Bigg and chairman Julian Hanson-Smith to drive growth, transform the MHP business and oversee the firm’s corporate affairs, public affairs and brand teams.

At Edelman, Barron led its 80-strong corporate reputation team for nearly three years, growing the department into the UK’s largest specialist corporate practice and adding more than 50 clients to its portfolio – including F1, Lagardere, Workspace and DONG Energy.

In 12 years with Edelman, he advised clients ranging from Unilever and GSK to Manchester City FC and The Economist Group.

“I’m delighted that Nick will be joining us,” said Bigg. “Having worked with him previously, I know him to be a rare combination – a world-class adviser and a brilliant leader.

“We are building an industry-leading strategic communications consultancy and he will help us accelerate our work.”

Debbie Klein, chief executive at Engine Europe and Asia Pacific, continued: “Nick’s arrival marks a milestone in the evolution of MHP, which has been growing strongly under Alex Bigg’s leadership.

“MHP is investing in top talent to build on its strong track record of helping clients solve business problems and navigate change in a time of great uncertainty. This appointment is a coup.”

Barron added: “The vision for the future of MHP that Debbie, Alex and Julian have set-out is incredibly exciting and I can’t wait to get started. This is an opportunity to create a unique proposition with focus, scale and passion.”

Bigg has implimented several changes since he joined the agency last year, including the creation of a new MHP Media Unit led by Ian Kirby, the former News of the World political editor.