Sandpiper Group, a leading global communications and public affairs consultancy, has announced the appointment of Michael Rinaman as Managing Director, Strategy. Based in Hong Kong, Michael will lead the development and growth of Sandpiper’s strategy practice on a global scale, while also integrating the firm’s digital communications and research and insights offerings.

Rinaman brings extensive global experience in reputation strategy, providing data-driven counsel across corporate communications, consumer communications, internal communications, and crisis and issues management. His expertise spans different sectors, including healthcare, technology, financial services, energy, consumer brands, and government. Prior to joining Sandpiper, Rinaman served as Managing Director for FleishmanHillard’s research and analytics in Asia Pacific and led the firm’s global impact measurement initiatives.

Emma Smith, Sandpiper’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Michael’s embrace of communications innovation and vast experience across the region and globally will make him an indispensable asset to our clients. As reputation and communications strategy evolves, Sandpiper is continually investing to help our clients navigate change. The growth of our Strategy practice will complement both our expanding Digital and Research & Insights offerings, while also feeding into more impactful work for our clients across all capabilities.”

Reflecting on his new role, Rinaman said, “The need for data-validated strategies is evolving at a rapid pace across the globe and especially in Asia Pacific. To be able to join Sandpiper, which is consistently investing in the capabilities that communicators need for the future, gives me the opportunity to embrace that change and focus on combining intuition and insight for the sake of more successful client strategy. I am excited to join a team of such talented consultants, advisors, and communicators.”