Hill & Knowlton and BCW will merge on July 1, 2024, to form Burson. Kelli Parsons has been appointed global CEO of Hill & Knowlton, succeeding AnnaMaria DeSalva, who will become global chairman of Burson. Hill & Knowlton will continue as a full-service global firm within the Burson group, focusing on strategic communication and long-term value creation.
DeSalva praised Parsons, highlighting her leadership and extensive experience. Corey duBrowa, soon-to-be global CEO of Burson, emphasized Hill & Knowlton’s complementary expertise within the group. Parsons expressed her commitment to leading the firm and supporting client growth using the Burson network’s resources.
With thirty years of experience in journalism, agency, and corporate leadership, Parsons has significantly contributed to Hill & Knowlton’s global advisory business. Her background includes roles as chief communication and marketing officer for Fortune 50 companies and leadership positions at H&K’s New York and Washington, D.C. markets. She is also involved in advancing the communication profession and developing future leaders.