Marketing and communications firms Subject Matter and Kivvit have merged to create a new national agency that combines advertising services, strategic communications, data analytics and insights, government relations, digital strategy and creative content into a single integrated consultancy.  Terms weren’t disclosed.    

The firm, to be known for now as Subject Matter + Kivvit, has more than 200 people with offices in Washington, New York, Chicago, New Jersey, as well as an emerging presence in Miami.  

M+K indicated that the combined firm is approaching $100 million in annual revenue, becoming one of the largest independent agencies in the United States.    

“Combining this breadth and level of experience will allow us to offer clients the scale and expertise of a large firm, but with the personal touch of a boutique agency,” said Nicole Cornish, CEO of Subject Matter.  

Kivvit is known for data-driven insights for digital advertising campaigns and communications strategy for clients in finance, higher education, energy, and health care. Subject Matter boasts one of Washington’s leading bipartisan government relations teams and a creative advocacy capability that supports clients across public health, finance, education, technology, communications, and transportation.   

The new firm will operate under Coral Tree Partners, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm that acquired an ownership position in Subject Matter in 2022.     

The leadership at both firms will remain to head the combined business, including managing partners Steve Elmendorf, Paul Frick, Jimmy Ryan, Dan Sallick, and Eric Sedler.  

Cornish, previously CEO of Subject Matter, will continue to serve in this capacity for the new company. Molly Scherrman will be the new agency’s Chief Operating Officer, continuing the role she played at Kivvit.  

The new firm will operate under their current brands for now with expanded leadership roles and rebranding anticipated later this year.