Edelman China makes two senior appointments to lead health and wellness

Edelman China has strengthened its offerings in the healthcare, sports and lifestyle sectors by appointing Laura Zhou as vice president of healthcare, and Chris Leung as its senior vice president of lifestyle and sports marketing. Zhou has been developing integrated communications solutions for healthcare companies since 2008, evolving her approach in line with the rapidly changing marketing landscape during this time. Edelman China said her arrival augments the agency's strength in integrated solutions, alongside chief creative officer Wendy Chan who joined the firm from McCann Health in June.

She also brings over 17 years of experience at China’s communications and advertising agencies, including McCann WorldGroup, Saatchi & Saatchi, WPP Health and VMLY&R. 

“Edelman understands the factors that influence a brand’s level of trust among consumers, and advise clients on how to build and protect it. In the healthcare sector, trust is paramount. I’m excited to be joining this firm at such a pivotal time for the health and wellness sector, and working with our clients on growing this space in China," Zhou said. 

Meanwhile, Leung has joined Edelman from Entourage Sports and Entertainment, where he served as Asia commercial director, and brings extensive experience from the advertising industry, having worked at BBDO, Ogilvy and Saatchi & Saatchi. His work at sports marketing agency SECA saw him lead projects for brands, including the 100 Days 100 Marathon for Johnson & Johnson and others; Yao Ming’s celebrity endorsement for Snickers; the J.P. Morgan China Squash Open; and the Beijing Half Marathon for Puma. 

Leung also worked for The Peninsula Group as marketing consultant. He strengthened the hotelier’s association with motorsports – namely the Formula1 – as well as its commitment to sustainability. Edelman China said Leung brings to Edelman a talent for working with all types of brands on building a sports and wellness component in its marketing strategy and strengthening its associations through partnerships in this space.

"There has never been a more relevant time for brands and companies to enhance their focus on sports and wellness marketing. With Edelman’s strength in integrated solutions, I’m looking forward to partnering with the talented teams on driving this agenda for the firm’s impressive client roster," he said. 

Pully Chau, Edelman’s president of Greater China, also added: “We are anticipating big growth in these areas in a post-pandemic world, as people place greater importance on their health and their overall wellbeing. With these hires, we are in a strong position to lead clients in this space, with an unparalleled, industry-leading integrated offering.”

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