Terri-Helen Gaynor takes over as Burson-Marsteller APAC CEO

Burson-Marsteller, a leading global public relations and communications firm, has announced that Terri-Helen Gaynor has joined the company as President and Chief Executive Officer, Asia-Pacific.

According to a press release, Gaynor succeeds Patrick Ford, who had been Chair of the Asia-Pacific region since October 2012. Ford will continue as Worldwide Vice Chair and Chief Client Officer and as Chair of the Asia-Pacific region through the leadership transition, serving as a senior advisor to Gaynor.

Both Gaynor and Ford will report to Donald A Baer, Worldwide Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Burson-Marsteller.

Gaynor’s 30-year career spans the full spectrum of corporate communications, according to the press release. She has led numerous teams on initial public offerings, mergers & acquisitions and takeover bids. She also has deep knowledge of the global health industry and offers vast experience counseling government officials.

 “Terri-Helen is widely respected across Asia-Pacific and the global communications sector as an expert strategist with broad expertise managing complex issues in partnership with CEOs, boards of directors, financial authorities and government ministers,” Baer was quoted as saying in the press release.

“All of us are very grateful to Pat Ford for leading the region during these past two years,” Baer continued. “Under his strong guidance, we have grown our business, added exceptional talent and produced award-winning work, all while leading the region in ideas-driven, evidence-based communications…. We are very fortunate to have his continued service as a leader and colleague in his ongoing role as our Worldwide Vice Chair and Chief Client Officer.”

Speaking about her new role, Gaynor said, “The firm has built an outstanding business in its more than 40 years in the region and boasts an enviable roster of talent and clients. I am eager to build on this most impressive foundation.”