Edelman's Alan VanderMolen takes on a global role

David Brain will move from his current position of president and CEO of Edelman Europe, Middle East and Africa to take over leadership of Edelman Asia-Pacific. Both roles take effect 1 January, 2011.

VanderMolen, who is currently based in Hong Kong, will relocate to Chicago, where he will lead the development of Edelman's global practices (consumer, corporate, public affairs, crisis, technology, sustainability, and employee engagement), as well as heading specialty research firm StratgyOne, and Edelman's various consulting businesses.

VanderMolen will also oversee the development of the firm's intellectual property - which includes the Edelman Trust Barometer, goodpurpose, and Health Engagement.

"Alan is well-suited to spearhead the development and integration of our global practices, specialty businesses, and intellectual property because he has operated successfully in key global markets and has been at the forefront of developing significant intellectual capital across the firm in the areas of stakeholder engagement, corporate trust, CSR, and social media," said Richard Edelman, president and CEO, Edelman.

"Being able to leverage Edelman's arsenal of intellectual capital and to work with our team of global practice leaders to innovate for our clients on a daily basis across the globe is a dream role," added VanderMolen.

Brain assumes leadership of Edelman's Asia-Pacific network, which added offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Jakarta, Melbourne, Mumbai, and Tokyo under VanderMolen's watch and quadrupled in size from US$11 million in 2002 to more than US$40 million in 2010.

"Having experienced tremendous success in Europe - growing the business from 350 people and $45.5 million in revenue to 700 professionals and $100 million in revenue in seven years, David is the ideal candidate to lead Edelman in Asia-Pacific," added Edelman. "He will build on Alan's progress and expand Edelman in the world's fastest-growing markets ."