NEW YORK — Ogilvy Health has promoted Shannon Walsh to president of public relations for North America.

In the newly created role, Walsh is responsible for expanding the firm’s client roster and footprint across the region.

She brings more than 20 years of healthcare communications experience to the role, the last 16 of which she spent at Ogilvy. Most recently, Walsh led healthcare PR for the New York office. She also serves as a global client leader.

Walsh’s promotion comes on the heels of Ogilvy Health CEO Kate Cronin’s departure from the firm for Moderna, where she will serve as chief brand officer. Walsh will report to Cronin’s replacement once that person is hired.

“Shannon’s strategic eye for solving client problems has made her a trusted advisor to many of our top clients. She understands how to use the power of creative storytelling to build health brands, promote life-changing therapies, and shape a healthier world,” said Devika Bulchandani, CEO of Ogilvy North America. “Shannon is also a passionate leader who empowers and enables the best in her teams, which is why I have no doubt that she will help take us to a new level as we create impact across the health continuum.”