SYDNEY — Policy and sustainability consultancy Stonehaven has expanded its operations to Asia-Pacific by acquiring Aeio and making a number of hires in the region.

Aeio was founded 18 months ago by former Weber Shandwick Asia-Pacific chief strategy officer Ian Rumsby, who now becomes Asia-Pacific managing partner for Stonehaven, overseeing the latter firm's operations in the region. Rumsby previously spent two decades with Weber Shandwick. 

“We are delighted to have someone of Ian’s calibre and experience join us at such a pivotal point in the firm’s development," said Stonehaven founder Peter Lyburn. "Having successfully integrated and invested in Robertsbridge, doubling our revenues from sustainability services in 18 months, we are committed to building on that success."

The deal comes after Stonehaven acquired sustainability consultancy Robertsbridge in 2021. The firm has also hired former Singapore Environment Council head of industry development and engagement counsel Tham Kok Wing to serve as Singapore director for Robertsbridge. 

In addition, Stonehaven Australia has brought in Cathy Mussert as a director and Alex Savage as managing consultant. Mussert was previously project director at ERM and director of external engagement at Network Rail, after previously holding senior strategy and communications roles at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, and at Heathrow Airport. Savage was formerly Australian research and insights lead at Teneo. He joins Stonehaven from RepTrak where he led the company’s client relationship team across Asia-Pacific. 

"Our decision to expand into the Asia-Pacific region, with additional offices in Singapore, builds on the success of our operations in London, Dubai and Sydney, and creates a truly connected network of global services designed to support client needs," added Kathy Jones, executive chair Stonehaven Australia.