Edelman has announced a series of senior leadership appointments designed to accelerate the firm’s strategic agenda.  

Matthew Harrington has been named executive vice chairman, Mainardo de Nardis has been appointed global president and chief operating officer, and Brian Buchwald will serve as president, global transformation and performance. 

“These leadership appointments mark an important new chapter for Edelman as we double down on innovation, global growth, and trust,” said Richard Edelman, CEO. “Each of these leaders brings unique strengths that will help us move forward in a rapidly changing communications landscape.” 

A 41-year veteran of the firm, Harrington has held several key leadership roles, including U.S. CEO, and most recently served as global president and COO. In his new role as executive vice chairman, he will concentrate on strengthening relationships with Edelman’s largest global clients. including Samsung, Microsoft, eBay, and Starbucks.  

De Nardis, a member of Edelman’s board of directors for the past five years, brings decades of experience in global media and communications leadership. As global president and COO, he will focus on driving client growth and strong financial performance, guiding global strategy, and ensuring consistency and excellence across Edelman’s worldwide network. His remit includes strengthening the firm’s operating model to support sustainable, profitable growth while extending Edelman’s cultural and industry impact. 

He previously served as executive vice chairman of Omnicom Media Group and CEO of OMD Worldwide at Omnicom, global CEO of Aegis Media, and CEO of MEC at WPP, where he also sat on the founding board of GroupM. In recent years, he has served as chairman, board director, and investor, primarily in the AdTech sector for companies including Vidmob and the AI-powered mobile advertising platform LoopMe.  

“I’ve known Mainardo for 30 years and he is a seasoned executive who has deep CMO relationships. He knows what they want, and he understands the evolving landscape and the needs of our clients,” said Edelman.

Buchwald joined Edelman three years ago to help build out the firm’s suite of Trust products and services. He has since been elevated to global chair of product and AI, leading efforts in the use of artificial intelligence. In his new role, he will oversee further integration of AI and technology to deliver increased value to clients. He will report to de Nardis.