Edelman expands remit for APAC vice chair, names APAC head of corporate

Edelman has expanded Michelle Hutton's role, adding leadership of the firm's regional client and growth functions to her remit. Hutton is currently vice chair for APAC, Aside from Hutton, Edelman has promoted Susan Redden Makatoa to head of corporate for APAC.

In her expanded role, Hutton (pictured on the left) will leverage her experience in building Edelman’s integrated solutions offering in APAC to evolve the firm’s client-centric approach. She will ensure that strategy, creativity, data, and digital sit at the heart of all client business and growth efforts. Additionally, Hutton will also oversee the firm's regional client leadership, new business, and marketing initiatives. 

According to her LinkedIn, Hutton is experienced with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and communication industry with P&L accountability and experience in growing creative and digital businesses. She has been with Edelman for more than six years. Hutton first helmed the role of global consumer marketing chair in 2014 for more than a year before taking on the role of chief operating officer and managing director. Prior to working in Edelman, Hutton has spent close to two decades Hill+Knowlton, helming the role of chief executive in Australia. 

Meanwhile, Makatoa (pictured on the right) was previously group managing director of Edelman Australia. In her new role, Makatoa will lead Edelman’s reputation and advisory practice across the region. She will be reporting to Edelman’s CEO for APAC, Stephen Kehoe and global vice chair of corporate affairs, Dave Samson. With over 20 years of experience under her belt, Makatoa is experienced in leading reputation management and advisory services across business, government, and not-for-profit sectors.

"With these moves, the agency is creating a more powerful, client-centric organisation than ever before in APAC," said Kehoe. He added with Edelman being an agency that has never stood still, its pioneering spirit continues today. "We have a collective hunger to deliver impactful and effective integrated work for our clients, with a One Edelman mindset," explained Kehoe. 

Meanwhile, Asia Pacific chief client and operations officer, Bob Grove, has departed the agency after 16 years last month. Grove held various leadership roles across the region including MD, Southeast Asia and CEO of North Asia. According to the agency, he drove many solutions across the firm, specifically in the areas of data, insights and client quality and service. 

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