Weber Shandwick, a global communications agency, announced the appointment of Angela Malkin as its new head in Australia, alongside key leadership additions across its consumer, technology, corporate, and healthcare practices. This strategic move aims to enhance the agency’s capabilities and deliver even greater value to its expanding client base.
Angela Malkin brings nearly 20 years of experience in both Australia and the UK, having worked in global PR agencies and senior communications roles within the finance and government sectors. Her extensive background equips her with a deep understanding of client needs and the ability to drive innovative and results-oriented strategies.
Reflecting on her career, Malkin shared, “When I look back, my standout career moments have been in agency. There’s nothing like the buzz and excitement of working with diverse, creative minds to bring extraordinary ideas to life. Working client side, the best agencies understood my business and were able to look at a brief with real results in mind.”
In addition to Malkin’s leadership, Weber Shandwick Australia has strengthened its team with the appointment of Addie Freyne as Business Director, who will oversee the technology and corporate practices. Freyne brings over a decade of experience from top agencies like Ogilvy, Edelman, and Mahlab, is set to lead efforts in delivering integrated communications strategies that resonate in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
Rachel Vidaic also rejoins the team as Business Director, taking the helm of the consumer practice. With 15 years of agency-side experience, Rachel is known for her ability to craft creative and impactful campaigns that drive brand engagement and growth in the lifestyle sector.
The healthcare practice is bolstered by the arrival of Akina Taniguchi, who brings a wealth of experience from her work across Oncology, Rare Diseases, HIV, Ophthalmology, and other health sectors in Australia, the UK, and Europe. Taniguchi’s expertise will be instrumental in furthering Weber Shandwick’s reputation as a leader in healthcare communications.
Since becoming an independent entity in 2021, Weber Shandwick Australia has formed a distinctive alliance with brand experience agency Jack Morton and content agency Vocal. This collaboration leverages the strengths of Creative, PR, Experience, and Content to create a new model of storytelling that builds brands and drives demand.
Helen Graney, CEO of Weber Shandwick Australia, expressed her enthusiasm for the new leadership team, stating, “Angela and I have huge ambitions for Weber Shandwick in Australia. As our client portfolio continues to grow, I’m personally thrilled to welcome this new cohort of leaders who excel in their own unique ways. Their collective expertise and creativity will allow us to deliver outstanding work and growth for our clients.”