Steven has worked at Edelman since 1998, when he joined as a graduate, and worked in New York, Sydney and London, as well as many of the agency's expertise areas including consumer, corporate and health.

He has more than 16 years' comms experience in ethical healthcare, diagnostics, devices and corporate comms, and will retain his role as group MD of health.

Ed Williams, UK CEO, said: "The recent promotion of Susan Eastoe to EMEA COO meant I needed to find a strong partner to help ensure the continued efficient running of the UK business. Steven has worked for Edelman for 14 years and has a deep understanding of the business.

"He has also been instrumental to the success of our health offering, a role he will maintain as group MD of health alongside this appointment. He has the insight and strategic skills we need as we continue to invest and grow our UK business."

Steven said: "Edelman UK has achieved significant growth because of our client approach, our independence, global scale and deep specialisms.

"I look forward to working with the UK leadership team to continue to drive growth through our unique culture that puts ideas and creative thinking at the fore."