BEIJING—Chris Millward is leaving his role as global communications director at Lenovo to join Waggener Edstrom as China GM. 

China PR veteran Millward departs Lenovo after two years with the tech giant, taking on a position that has been handled by Antoine Calendrier from Hong Kong for the past 18 months. Calendrier will leave WagEd once the transition to Millward is complete. 

Since arriving in Beijing in 1994, Millward has held numerous roles, including stints at Text 100, Edelman and Weber Shandwick. He also ran his own firm, Firebrands Business Consulting.  

Millward will report to WagEd Asia-Pacific lead and SVP Matt Lackie, joining a regional leadership team that also includes Beijing GM Jason Cao, Shanghai VP and GM Cathleen Witter and Emma Richards, Hong Kong VP and GM.

"In looking at my next step professionally in the world of communications, I looked across the globe – from Singapore and Hong Kong to London and San Francisco," Millward told the Holmes Report.

"Ultimately I felt that Waggener Edstrom presented the best opportunity that aligned with both my professional and personal goals. [It] has been in China for 10 years now, with a great initial foundation to expand on rapidly." 

In addition, WagEd has increased its equity share in Australian communications agency Buchan to 42.5%, making it the largest shareholder in the business.