Hill & Knowlton takes over IPAN

Global communications consultancy Hill & Knowlton has expanded its operations into India by taking over the management responsibility of IPAN from JWT India effective July 1 2009.

The new entity, to be re-branded IPAN Hill & Knowlton, will become a part of Hill & Knowlton's Asia Pacific region with IPAN president Radhika Shapoorjee reporting to Hill & Knowlton Asia Pacific president and chief operating officer Vivian Lines.

Both JWT and Hill & Knowlton are part of communications services group WPP, and all existing management and staff at IPAN will continue in their existing roles.

Colvyn Harris, chief executive officer, JWT India, said, "With this management realignment for IPAN with Hill & Knowlton there will be greater specialisation and the value proposition for globalisation of Public Relations in India will strengthen.''

Radhika Shapoorjee, President, IPAN, commented: ''It's truly a double delight to become part of a specialist global PR network across 43 countries. And we continue to partner with JWT to provide a 360 degree communication solution to our clients.

Vivian Lines, president & chief operating officer of Hill & Knowlton Asia Pacific, said, "Hill & Knowlton has historically pioneered the development of international public relations, and India is a key market in the new world economic order. We have worked with IPAN as an associate for 20 years. Now we have the opportunity to fully integrate them into the Hill & Knowlton network and to grow business together in what is one of the most vibrant business markets globally.''