SINGAPORE — Sandpiper Communications has hired Ed Brewster as its first director of international media.

Brewster has been an independent consultant since January this year, having exited Huawei in December 2020. He had led corporate affairs, public policy and media for the Chinese technology company’s UK business, as well as managing international media relations, for eight years.

Before Huawei, Brewster was group head of media relations at Prudential and head of media for mobile company Three. He started his career at Brunswick.

In this role, Brewster will lead the new international media practice for Sandpiper, which now has a team of 52. The practice will supports companies, brands and business leaders with global media, messaging, profiling and media training, as well as issues and crises management.

Based in New Zealand, he will also provide senior counsel to financial and technology clients across the region and help lead the growth of Sandpiper’s client base across New Zealand and Australia.

Sandpiper Communications chief executive Emma Smith said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ed to our growing regional team. In an increasingly global business environment and with more Asia Pacific companies targeting international growth, we see more companies seeking support with multi-market communications and media strategies.

“With Ed’s experience leading international communications and media relations for some of the world’s largest companies, he brings unique, first-hand experience in narrative development and issues and crisis management across multiple, diverse markets and geographies and will be a great partner to our clients.”

In his LinkedIn post announcing the move, Brewster said: “After eight months of independent consulting life, it's great to be joining Sandpiper. They’re a highly professional team, with a broad range of discipline expertise and a real desire to help organisations navigate the reputation challenges of tomorrow.

"Most importantly the company fosters an environment and working culture focused on partnering to deliver for its clients. I look forward to leading this new practice focused on helping our clients develop stronger, long-lasting relationships with the international media.”