NEW YORK — Ketchum has replaced its executive committee with a global leadership council (GLC) that aims to bring in more voices and perspectives from across the global agency.

The executive committee, which was comprised of Ketchum's top seven people, was "not as representative as it should be", said global CEO Rob Flaherty (pictured). The new GLC numbers 20 people, and consists of 10 women and 10 men, with 10 drawn from global roles, four in North American roles, four in European roles, and two in APAC/LatAm roles.

GLC members serve a two-year renewable term. They are:

  • Serena De Morgan, global client director

  • Mike Doyle, director, New York

  • Peter Fleischer, senior counselor, global growth and development counselor

  • Debra Forman, president, Ketchum Digital

  • David Gallagher, CEO, Europe

  • Jon Higgins, CEO, international

  • Mark Hume, CFO, Europe

  • Denise Kaufmann, CEO, London

  • Hilary McKean, managing director, global practices

  • Craig Mersky, chief human resources officer and general counsel

  • Michael O’Brien, client development director, North America

  • Jerry Olszewski, chief client officer

  • Esty Pujadas, global development officer

  • Barri Rafferty, CEO, North America

  • Mindy Rubinstein, chief communications officer

  • Karen Strauss, chief strategy and creativity officer

  • Bill Visone, chief financial officer

  • Stephen Waddington, chief engagement officer

  • Vicky Wagner, CEO, Brandzeichen

  • Ann Wool, president, Ketchum Sports & Entertainment

The firm has also eliminated the senior partner designation and unveiled a 'Break Through advisory board' that is designed to bring non-partner views to leadership. Members of the eight-person advisory board will be selected from all levels and areas of the agency through an open application process.

"What you’re going to have is a very diverse group from around the world of disruptors and provocateurs saying you should go beyond what you’re thinking and do this," said Flaherty.

"A lot of organisations have suggestion boxes but are not used to saying to yes," said Flaherty. "You have to have an interest at the top. I have an interest, my CFO supports it. We know that innovation is the lifeblood of an agency."