NEWPORT BEACH, CA — Gateway Group has appointed Joshua Lamont as the managing director for Gateway Public Relations. Lamont (pictured) will co-lead the expanding public relations practice at Gateway and assume a key role within the executive leadership team. Lamont's career includes serving as a spokesperson for the Department of Labor under President Barack Obama in 2010, as well as leading communications teams at organizations such as Lehman Brothers, amfAR, GLSEN, and Edelman. His tenure at Edelman included holding roles within their New York technology group, the launch of a diversity marketing specialty practice, and leadership of the crisis and reputation management group in San Francisco. Lamont joins forces with industry veterans Zach Kadletz and Robert Collins, along with a team of account directors and subject matter experts across the nation.

WASHINGTON — ROKK Solutions has hired James Conway as senior account director, leveraging his 10 years of experience from working on Capitol Hill, political and policy campaigns, and in B2B technology. In his previous role at 104 West Public Affairs, Conway led public relations, thought leadership, and social media efforts for technology firms in quantum computing, generative AI and semiconducting chips. In addition, Hamza Akhtar has been promoted to account executive, demonstrating his prowess in developing impactful content across various client needs and excelling in media relations.

NEW YORK — Kekst CNC has appointed Andrew Blecher as a partner based in New York. Previously, Blecher led his own consultancy, specializing in strategic communications for C-suite executives and companies. He also played a role in communications and public affairs at Hudson’s Bay Company, fostering media and financial market recognition and spearheading CSR initiatives.

DETROIT — McLean Media has appointed Olivia Grant as its inaugural marketing manager. With expertise in graphic design and content marketing across both B2B and B2C sectors, Grant has overseen the digital presence of numerous brands. Her background includes a skillful balance between contemporary trends and fundamental marketing principles, along with the establishment of optimized processes and workflows to enhance performance. In her role at McLean Media, Grant will spearhead captivating graphic design and content marketing initiatives, guiding clients in the creation of resonant content tailored to target audiences.

CLEVELAND — Dix & Eaton has promoted Theresa Allen to director of diversity, equity inclusion and belonging (DEIB), which she will serve as alongside her continued position as controller. In addition, Gregg LaBar has been promoted to chief client officer, recognized for his extensive 25-year career at the company and his role in founding Dix & Eaton's sustainability/environmental, social and governance (ESG) practice. Donna Harlan, who joined the firm in 2005, has been promoted to senior director of administrative operations, reflecting her growth in responsibilities and significant contributions to various facets of the organization.

NEW YORK — FGS Global has appointed two members to its global management team. Akin Harrison joins as chief legal officer, bringing over two decades of legal counsel background in the media sector, including his recent role as senior vice president and general counsel at Tegna. Rebecca Gasser, the new global chief information officer, meantime, arrives from Omnicom Health where she was global CIO, driving the development and management of the global technology organization. Gasser will lead IT oversight across FGS Global's three regions and 27 offices.