SYDNEY — OPR has named Graham White as the agency's chief operating officer, following two decades with the WPP AUNZ PR firm.

Ogilvy's Australian operation has also appointed Jacquie Potter to take on White's former role as MD of subsidiary firm Howorth. Potter adds the position to her existing remit as OPR chief growth officer.

White's 20-year run with OPR includes almost 15 years leading Howorth, which focuses on B2B and technology communications. Potter, meanwhile, spent more than a decade in Howorth.

"[White's] resolute focus on people, financial performance, client service and external reputation means he’s a brilliant choice for this new role, where he will take on responsibility for all operational aspects of opr, working closely with myself and our finance director," said OPR CEO Richard Brett.

"As CEO I need the best person to support in critical areas of the business, which ensures growth of our clients, our people and our reputation. Graham’s skills and his results-driven attitude will ensure he successfully combines this new role and his ongoing work with his existing client portfolio."

In addition, OPR has also strengthened its healthcare team with the appointment of Samantha Gale to the role of associate director in the agency's Melbourne office. Most recently with Cox Inall Change and prior to that Edelman, Gale brings a mix of pharmaceutical and consumer health experience to the position.