Former WPP Executive Will Develop and Lead the Firm’s Talent and Recruitment Strategy
Edelman has named Marie-Claire Barker global chief talent officer, effective July 23, 2018. Barker will lead the firm’s talent development, recruitment and retention efforts, partnering with leaders across the agency network to meet the evolving demands of clients and the diverse needs of employees. She will be based in New York and report to Matthew Harrington, global chief operating officer.
“Marie-Claire’s experience as a human resources professional deeply rooted in the marketing industry will make her an incredible resource for our employees and clients,” said Harrington. “Edelman continues its evolution to be an integrated communications marketing firm with subject-matter expertise in new areas like data analytics, paid media, C-suite advisory and digital transformation. Her expertise in developing talent will guide not only how we evolve our recruitment strategies to attract the right individuals in these areas, but also will be key to ensuring we maintain a culture of entrepreneurial spirit and creativity.”
Barker comes to Edelman from Wavemaker, WPP’s media, content and technology agency, where she was the lead talent executive. At Wavemaker, she developed a talent strategy for 8,500 employees across 90 countries. Prior to Wavemaker, Barker served as global chief talent officer for Ogilvy & Mather Advertising, leading all aspects of the company's human resources capabilities including recruiting, learning and development and succession planning.
“I’m thrilled to join Edelman not only for the strong reputation it maintains in the industry, but also for the individual passion and commitment its leadership team has for their people,” said Barker. “I have a passion for corporate culture and talent development and see both as essential to driving business growth. We want Edelman to be the company of choice for individuals who want a challenging, rewarding and exciting career experience within communications marketing.”
Originally from the United Kingdom, Barker received her degree in Human Resources Management and Services from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development at Kingston University.
About Edelman
Edelman is a leading global communications marketing firm that partners with many of the world’s largest and emerging businesses and organizations, helping them evolve, promote and protect their brands and reputations. Among its many honors, the firm was awarded the Cannes Lions Grand Prix for PR, named one of 2018 “Agencies to Watch” by Advertising Age and “Global Agency of the Year” by both the Holmes Report and PRWeek, and cited five times by Glassdoor as one of the “Best Places to Work.” Edelman owns specialty firms Edelman Intelligence (research) and United Entertainment Group (entertainment, sports, lifestyle).