Edelman, the world’s leading communications and public affairs firm, and Basilinna, a Washington, D.C.-based strategic consulting company, have entered into an exclusive partnership designed to provide multinational China and Middle East-based clients of both firms with expanded communications and government relations services in China, the Middle East and the United States.
The new alliance combines the full range of Edelman’s integrated global communications services with Basilinna’s specialized strategic consulting services. This partnership will help clients navigate through the challenging landscape of changing international market dynamics.
Basilinna has helped Fortune 500 companies and start-ups to design their market-entry, growth and government relations strategies. It also works with companies based in China, the Middle East and United States looking to expand internationally.
Stephen Kehoe, President and Chief Executive Officer of Asia Pacific, says that the partnership is being brought together to respond to the rapidly changing geopolitical and economic challenges clients of both firms are facing.
“The Basilinna team has unique insights on issues related to China, the Middle East and U.S. markets and a strong track record of matching those insights with effective strategies,” says Kehoe.
“They are an excellent complement to the strong public affairs and public relations teams we have on the ground, particularly in China where Basilinna has deep-rooted relationships built over decades.”
Deborah Lehr, Chief Executive Officer and Founding Partner of Basilinna, said, “We find ourselves in a unique time in history where communications and government engagement are more critical than ever for multinational companies. Combining our firm’s strategic approach at positioning businesses, with Edelman’s world-class communications, will provide an exceptional offering to navigate this new normal.”
In the Middle East, Edelman will work with Basilinna’s partner, EN Investment. EN Investment is a consultancy and investment house with expertise in screening investment opportunities, interpreting and evaluating public policy and pursuing business development possibilities in Egypt and the wider MENA region.
Basilinna’s leadership has long-term experience in policy issues, having worked with various government and related international institutions, including renowned law firms, investment banks, the New York Stock Exchange, the United Nations and leading international business groups. They have also helped to conceive, launch and manage leading not-for-profit organizations.
This union will ensure that clients of both Edelman and Basilinna have expanded access to senior counselors who understand the rapidly changing political, economic and social dynamics impacting decisions driving government engagements in China, the Middle East and the United States.
About Edelman
Edelman is a global communications firm that partners with businesses and organizations to evolve, promote and protect their brands and reputations. Our 6,000 people in more than 60 offices deliver communications strategies that give our clients the confidence to lead and act with certainty, earning the trust of their stakeholders. Our honors include the Cannes Lions Grand Prix for PR; Advertising Age’s 2019 A-List; the Holmes Report’s 2018 Global Digital Agency of the Year; and, five times, Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work. Since our founding in 1952, we have remained an independent, family-run business. Edelman owns specialty companies Edelman Intelligence (research) and United Entertainment Group (entertainment, sports, lifestyle).
