Full-service communication consultancy Res Publica has announced the appointment of respected journalist and media executive Sean Aylmer as its latest staffing addition.

As editorial director of Fairfax Media from 2013 to 2017, Aylmer was the most senior journalist in the group and publisher of iconic mastheads The Age, The Australian Financial Review and The Sydney Morning Herald.

He was also previously an economist at the Reserve Bank of Australia.

In his new role at Res Publica, Aylmer will help spearhead growth in the firm’s financial and corporate communication practice.

Res Publica’s executive chairman, Gabriel McDowell, said Aylmer would be a key addition to a team of senior practitioners bringing a compelling mix of experience across the full range of stakeholder communication.

“Sean’s expertise in Australian financial and news media is unparalleled, and his networks throughout the regulatory, corporate and media communities will be of immense benefit to our clients,” he said.

“No one better understands the forces at work in today’s commercial environment and the dynamics that drive the media agenda. We’ve been focused on building our talent in all practice areas in the consultancy and we are delighted to have Sean join us.”

Commenting on his appointment, Aylmer said he was excited to be joining Res Publica at a time when it was investing in its offering to senior executives looking for high-calibre communication counsel in increasingly complex stakeholder environments.

“Having worked as a senior executive, I know the value of having quality counsel. I’m looking forward to drawing upon my combined experience in journalism and leadership roles,” he said.

“Res Publica is a well-established and respected consultancy, known for establishing long-term relationships with its clients by delivering high-quality senior counsel.”

Aylmer’s appointment is the latest in a series of senior additions to the firm, including managing partner James Tait and, more recently, ex-Lion marketer and Ogilvy PR and Accenture management consultant Aleks Rzadkowski, and former NSW National Party director Nathan Quigley.

The consumer side of the business is also transforming its offering under the direction of Kristy Meudell, a well-respected former journalist and awarded PR leader.