Communications and marketing firm Weber Shandwick and brand experience agency, Jack Mortons, have jointly announced the appointment of Helen Graney (featured image) as group managing director of both Australian businesses.

Graney’s extended role sees her join Weber Shandwick as the agency continues its pivot towards data-driven, human-led solutions that help organisations better manage technology driven disruption. .

Her joint leadership of both agencies facilitates enhanced collaboration for select clients, expanding client access to business intelligence, strategic and creative skills, agency-wide.

Each agency will retain its separate brand entity and maintain independent clients as well as employees.

Operating from the same building, Weber Shandwick and Jack Morton have accelerated a collaborative approach to problem solving under the Interpublic Group’s ‘Open Architecture’ initiative, and in response to a growing client demand for deeper integration of services.

With Graney at the helm, the two agencies will have the opportunity to better leverage talent across both teams in areas of integrated thinking, planning and ideation.

Graney will report to Baxter Jolly, CEO Asia Pacific, Weber Shandwick and Julian Pullan, vice chairman, President International, Jack Morton.

She will work closely with Ian Rumsby chairman Australia and chair strategy, Asia Pacific, Weber Shandwick, and regional lead for United Minds, Weber Shandwick’s global management consultancy specialising in transformation.

Jolly said: “We are delighted at the opportunity to bring someone of Helen’s caliber into the Weber Shandwick business.

“Her disciplined, ambitious and forward-thinking approach to leadership of clients and people is something I’ve admired for a long time and I am truly excited at the potential she brings to our own transformation journey.”

With more than 20 years’ experience across integrated marketing, brand experience, and event management, Graney has been managing director of Jack Morton since 2009 and is recognised as one of the most disciplined, progressive and solutions-orientated communications leaders in the Australian market.

Graney commented: “In Australia, Weber Shandwick and Jack Morton have enjoyed a burgeoning relationship for several years, and particularly over the past twelve months we’ve worked more closely to bring collective solutions to complex assignments, in concert.

“Both agencies have an unrivaled passion for creating truly innovative, data-led and game changing solutions for clients. I am looking forward to the potential to further strengthening that collective aptitude.”