Global international affairs publication The Economist has announced it has appointed independent agency DEC PR to lead its strategic public relations remit across Australia.

The Economist has big ambitions for Australia, aiming to significantly grow circulation in Australia over the coming years.

To help deliver on the commercial goals of growing awareness, audience and subscribers, PR is a leading channel, to work in concert with increased investment in digital, social and experiential activity in the region.

DEC PR will lead brand-building initiatives targeting the globally curious; executives with international responsibilities; and individuals with a keen interest in events and places abroad, as well as a desire to follow developments in technology, the environment and social affairs.

Lauren Hackett, global vice president of communications at The Economist, said, “We selected DEC PR as our communications partner for their diverse experience across many sectors, organisations and challenges; a well-rounded agency that would respond swiftly and intelligently to the diverse needs and reporting agenda of The Economist.

“This, together with the team’s love and understanding for the brand, made the agency a clear winner, and I look forward to working with the team to bring The Economist’s mind-stretching journalism to globally-curious Australians across the country.”

DEC PR founder and managing director Agata Kenna said: “We proudly welcome The Economist to the Agency.

“It’s an honour to be working with such a distinguished brand – one that our team has held in very high regard, and often deferred to for mind-stretching and rigorous intel across their careers.

“This announcement tops off a successful year for the agency, following the completion of our newly-expanded headquarters in Sydney, client growth and welcoming great new talent to the business.”