LONDON—McKinsey has hired Steve John as global comms director, filling a role that has remained vacant since the departure of Michael Stewart to Edelman last year.

John takes on the influential role after spending almost five years as corporate affairs director at Bupa. The healthcare company is believed to be conducting an external search for John’s replacement.

At McKinsey, John's duties will include external communications, public affairs, media relations, issues management and internal communications. He will also lead brand management, digital comms, CSR and alumni relations. 

Prior to joining Bupa, John headed corporate affairs at Pepsico UK and Ireland, after leading DLA Piper's government affairs and media practice.

McKinsey's global comms leadership position was previously held by Stewart, before he left McKinsey after 12 years to become European CEO at Edelman.