Europe’s fastest growing public affairs and strategic communications firm, Rud Pedersen, has hired Alona Cherkassky as Director of Strategic Communications in its London office.
Cherkassky, formerly of BCW and FleishmanHillard, brings on board over 25 years of media and strategic communications experience. Her recent global client experience includes Meta, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, PepsiCo, the Government of Abu Dhabi, and Ukrainian Poultry producer MHP on complex issues around reputation management, crisis communications, geopolitics and global media relations. Prior to joining the field of public relations, Cherkassky worked as a writer and news producer in leading US-based outlets including Voice of America and CBS News. She also worked across digital and social media communications initiatives for leading global NGOs including UNICEF and Save the Children UK.
Jon Aarons, Managing Partner at Rud Pedersen’s UK business, said: “Alongside cutting edge public affairs consultancy, Rud Pedersen is advising UK and international corporate clients to shape their reputations, confront challenging issues and achieve their strategic goals. Today, the need for holistic solutions, blending content, digital skills and media expertise with political insight and advocacy is inescapable and we’re delighted to add Alona’s widely informed campaign perspective to our mix of talents in London.”
Commenting on her appointment Alona Cherkassky said, “I am making the right choice at the right time. Rud Pedersen’s solid values, incredible reputation and excellent service to clients makes it one of the most exciting firms in London. It was clear from the start that Rud Pedersen offers enormous possibilities for growth. I am committed to guiding our clients through very uncertain times using best practices in strategy, media relations and communications, underpinned by deep understanding of the British political landscape and enabled by an excellent team across the entire Group.”