Corporate and financial communications consultancy Cannings, part of Ogilvy PR Australia and STW, has announced the appointment of Renée Bertuch as managing director.
Bertuch, who has more than 20 years’ experience in business and financial communications in Australia, the United States and New Zealand, including as a senior director at Cannings, will replace John Hurst, who has decided to leave the business after almost eight years as managing director.
The chief executive officer of STW Group, Mike Connaghan said: “Renée brings a great breadth of local and international experience and diversity to the Managing Director’s position, which will benefit our current and potential clients.
“With the communications landscape in a constant state of change, Renée’s experience, expertise and drive will take the business into its next phase of growth.
“John is an experienced communicator who has brought strong media knowledge teamed with corporate expertise to Cannings. We thank him for his contribution and he leaves with our best wishes,” said Connaghan.
Bertuch said: “I am excited at the prospect of leading and reshaping our business to best respond to the changing needs of the market. Cannings is in a strong position and we have an exciting and ambitious growth plan.”
Over the past two decades, Bertuch has worked within consulting and on client-side, advising business on investor relations and media communications strategy around IPOs, takeovers, positioning among other issues. She also brings experience in technology, telecommunications, resources, professional services, health care, banking and pharmaceutical sectors.
Of his decision to leave, Hurst said: “I have enjoyed eight great years leading an outstanding team of communication experts who collectively have built one of the best corporate and financial communications agencies in the country.
“I look forward to working closely with Renée in her new role before leaving at the end of 2015 to pursue other interests.”
Hurst has more than 10 years’ experience as a senior adviser in corporate communications and investor relations and worked at the Australian Financial Review for more than 20 years, including five years as managing editor.
Cannings has a national footprint with consultants along the entire eastern seaboard and in Perth, through its joint venture, Cannings Purple. The firm is a member of the Ogilvy PR Australia group, providing Cannings with a global network of affiliates and partners.
