Hughes Named as Burson EMEA CEO, Departing Edelman
Portfolio - People | Mar 20, 2025 | EIN
Burson has appointed Jonathan Hughes, former COO of Edelman EMEA and CEO of Golin, as its new EMEA chief executive, succeeding Scott Wilson. Hughes, who joins Burson in June, will bring a wealth of experience in corporate communications to help the firm navigate the challenges of emerging technologies and geopolitical uncertainties in the EMEA region. His appointment follows recent leadership changes at Burson, with Simon Redfern named as UK CEO earlier this year. Current CEO Scott Wilson will depart the firm after a 14-year tenure that included leading regional integrations of major WPP mergers. Hughes aims to leverage Burson's strengths in AI and creativity to position the firm as a leading agency for both clients and professionals in the industry. Burson and Edelman were recently recognized in PRovoke Media's 50 Best Agencies in the UK.
Sectors
- Public Relations and Communications
- Technology and Innovation
Geography
- EMEA – The focus of the article is on Burson's new leadership for the EMEA region, which comprises Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and is seeing transformative changes.
- United Kingdom – The article is relevant to the UK as it mentions Burson's and Edelman's recognition in PRovoke Media's rankings, and the presence of significant leadership figures like Jonathan Hughes based in London.
- Hong Kong – Jonathan Hughes' previous experience in Hong Kong is mentioned as part of his background, enhancing the article's geographic relevance.
Industry
- Public Relations and Communications – The article discusses leadership changes within Burson, a global public relations and communications firm, and explores the strategic vision of harnessing AI and digital capabilities.
- Technology and Innovation – The article highlights discussions on the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in shaping future communications strategies, relevant to Hughes' focus on innovation.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Hughes | Incoming EMEA CEO | People | Former COO of Edelman EMEA and CEO of Golin, appointed as Burson's new EMEA CEO. |
| Scott Wilson | Outgoing EMEA CEO | People | Current EMEA CEO of Burson, set to depart later this year after a significant tenure. |
| Burson | Target Company | Company | A global public relations and communications firm, undergoing leadership changes in EMEA. |
| Edelman | Previous Employer | Company | Jonathan Hughes' previous employer, a major public relations firm. |
| Golin | Previous Employer | Company | Jonathan Hughes was a former CEO, known for building and scaling teams. |
| Corey duBrowa | Global CEO | People | Global CEO of Burson, praises Jonathan Hughes' appointment and contributions. |