NEW YORK — Edelman has chosen to dispense with global leaders for three of its six practices, parting ways with Kathy Beiser (corporate), Stephanie Lvovich (public affairs), and Bob Knott (business and social purpose), the Holmes Report has learned.

In a statement, an agency spokesperson noted that the firm will operate a regional leadership model for the three practices. "Over the past few months we have been examining how to ensure we are best positioned against evolving client needs while operating as effectively and efficiently as possible."

"This has involved conversations about how to ensure our global practices and sectors can deliver on their remits and responsibilities," added the spokesperson. "We have concluded that a more regional focus for the corporate, public affairs and business and social purpose practices would be most effective."

The moves come after Edelman reported its lowest annual growth for seven years, with 2016 revenues up 1.7% to $875m. They leave Edelman with global leadership for three remaining practices — Mark Renshaw, who oversees brand; Kevin King for digital; and Harlan Loeb at crisis and risk.

Beiser joined Edelman in 2015 from Hilton, while Lvovich arrived a year earlier from APCO. Knott has spent almost 14 years in a variety of roles at Edelman, although he left the firm for a three-year stint at FTI Consulting in 2012.