Rhys Ryan, senior vice president, Edelman San Francisco, has re-joined Porter Novelli Australia to head up corporate communications in the role of managing partner.

Ryan began his agency career at Porter Novelli Melbourne more than 10 years ago, where he worked for seven years in corporate positioning and consumer marketing in Melbourne and New York, before being appointed general manager at Edelman Melbourne. During his time with Edelman, Ryan relocated back to the US to work in its New York Corporate and Public Affairs division, and, more recently, its San Francisco offices as Senior Vice President.

Having worked with a broad range of Australian and international clients, including Coles Supermarkets, 7-Eleven, Bendigo Bank, Kraft, PepsiCo, P&G and Western Union, Ryan has skills that are complementary to Porter Novelli Melbourne – and will be an asset for the entire Porter Novelli Australia business.

Porter Novelli Australia CEO, Peter Kent, says the return of his former colleague significantly extends the capability of the firm.

“We’re delighted to have Rhys back home, and especially back home with Porter Novelli,” he said.

“He’s a world-class talent, Melbourne born and bred, with the knowledge, experience, curiosity, leadership and wry humour that makes him a huge asset for us and our clients. We’ve missed him.”

Ryan says it’s great to be back working with this team.

“The fact that many of my favourite colleagues are still with Porter Novelli Australia speaks to success and stability here over many years.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the world’s largest organisations in New York, and some of the world’s most exciting companies in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. I’m looking forward to re-engaging with the market and bringing value to our clients here,” he said.

Ryan’s appointment follows the return of another Porter Novelli boomerang, with senior consultant Nicole Hamilton back in Melbourne after two years with The PRactice Porter Novelli India leading programs for Hewlett Packard.

At the same time, Porter Novelli is recruiting new leadership in its Sydney business, with the aim to significantly round the geographic Melbourne and Sydney operations with a powerful, diverse and contemporary Australian offer.