Omnicom folds Porter Novelli into FleishmanHillard in PR portfolio overhaul

Omnicom is integrating its PR firm Porter Novelli into FleishmanHillard, with Porter Novelli becoming a dedicated brand within FleishmanHillard rather than operating as a standalone agency, according to the FleishmanHillard website.

J.J. Carter will continue as CEO of FleishmanHillard, while Porter Novelli CEO Jillian Janaczek will take on the role of Americas CEO within the combined structure, the website stated. 

The India staff of FleishmanHillard confirmed that they have been told about the development through a memo and also verbal communication. 

“More consolidation in the PR domain is on the horizon,” insiders told e4m. It was not immediately clear if the integration involves layoffs as well.  

e4m reached out to Omnicom to seek their comments. The story will be updated as and when they respond. 

A portion of Porter Novelli’s current client portfolio — including U.S. public sector relationships and select other clients — will continue to be served under the Porter Novelli brand, which will operate as a dedicated brand within FleishmanHillard, the company states. 

“The integration reflects a strategic priority to deliver deeper sector expertise, faster solutions globally and more precise counsel for mission-critical work. FleishmanHillard now operates with expanded talent and specialization across key growth sectors,” the company says. 

It further states, “Together, FleishmanHillard and Porter Novelli form one of the industry’s most comprehensive communications consultancies with pronounced strength across Health and life sciences, Technology, Financial and professional services, Social impact and ESG and Public sector and public affairs.”