NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hill+Knowlton Strategies today announced it has tapped Andy Weitz as president and CEO of its U.S. operations. H+K Strategies also congratulates Dan Bartlett, who is stepping down as the firm’s U.S. president and CEO, on his appointment as EVP of corporate affairs at Wal-Mart.
Weitz is a five-year veteran of H+K Strategies and most recently served as EVP and global co-chair of its Corporate Advisory Practice. The firm is also announcing that Danner Bethel will become chief operating officer of the U.S. Bethel has been with H+K Strategies for nine years and was previously an EVP, assisting with U.S. operations.
“I am thrilled that Andy has agreed to step into the role as president and CEO of the U.S. and that Danner will work by his side as COO,” said Jack Martin, global chairman and CEO of Hill+Knowlton Strategies. “I take great pride in promoting top performers into senior leadership positions, and Andy and Danner are both shining examples of the world-class talent we have at Hill+Knowlton Strategies. I am confident that, under their leadership, our U.S. operations will continue to be a strong contributor to our global network.”
Weitz, who has been a key member of the senior leadership team within H+K Strategies both in the U.S. and globally, has worked as a trusted advisor to senior leadership teams at many of the nation’s largest companies. He has counseled clients through crisis, reputation and stakeholder management issues. Weitz brings his experience growing, managing and transforming businesses — within the technology and financial services sectors — to each of his client engagements.
“It is an honor to have been asked to step in and lead a critical region of the H+K network,” Weitz said. “We have some of the most talented, creative and insightful communications experts in the business and I’m excited to work with them as president and CEO of the U.S. There is tremendous energy and momentum here, which we can capitalize on and grow. Our focus will be on leveraging the strong foundation Dan has established and continue on the growth path he has set.”
Of Bartlett, Martin said “Dan has been a wonderful partner and friend to me and a real leader here at the firm. He will be missed and I wish him the best of luck in his new role.”
“Since taking on the role of president and CEO of H+K in the U.S.,” Bartlett said, “I have had the great pleasure of working with some of the best communications professionals in the business, as well as some of the best clients. I know Andy well and have collaborated with him on critical assignments, working side by side and witnessing his remarkable ability to align clients’ business goals with smart and creative communications strategies. There are abundant opportunities ahead for H+K, in the U.S. and globally. I know that Andy and his team will build on the firm’s strong legacy and that they will accomplish great things.”
About Hill+Knowlton Strategies
Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Inc. is a leading international communications consultancy, providing services to local, multinational and global clients. The firm is headquartered in New York, with 90 offices in 52 countries, as well as an extensive associate network. The agency is part of WPP, one of the world’s largest communications services groups. For more information, please visit www.hkstrategies.com.
