WASHINGTON — Geneva-based Leidar has expanded to the US, opening New York and Washington offices run by Levick staffers following the loss of founder and CEO Richard Levick to cancer in April.

“For nearly a decade, Leidar and Levick have partnered on engagements around the globe, working closely to support numerous clients and projects. Over the last year, our firms have been exploring a more formal relationship,” Maxwell Marcucci, managing director of risk & reputation, said in announcing the changes.

“When Richard’s prognosis changed, the conversation shifted: it was Richard’s express wish that the Levick team would have an opportunity to continue our important work under the Leidar banner and with the support of his trusted counterpart and Leidar founder, Rolf Olsen,” he wrote.

The New York and Washington offices (Leidar’s first in the US) will be led by Levick senior leaders who will also lead global practice areas. In New York, John Lovallo will serve as managing director, corporate affairs & financial. Washington will be led by Marcucci, Phil Armstrong as managing director, public affairs and an interim COO for Leidar USA. 

The entire Levick team accepted positions with Leidar. They will continue supporting Levick clients as the firm winds down its business.

“Leidar USA launches with a seasoned and experienced team. We are serving clients with an expanded global offering and a complete set of solutions in corporate reputation, crisis readiness and response, financial communications, and public affairs,” Olsen said.

“Our Leidar signature is ‘Leadership Navigation’ and we deliver value for our clients through collaborative and high quality counsel and programs to address risk, manage and build reputations, and advocate for public policy change. Today marks the beginning of a bright new opportunity for Leidar staff worldwide, and for our clients, partners and friends. Leidar USA will carry on the extraordinary legacy of Richard Levick as we build our brand and our business,” he said.

In addition to its US and Washington offices, Leidar has operations in Geneva, London, Brussels, Oslo, Dubai, and Singapore. The firm’s 60-plus staffers speak more than 15 languages.