Insights

SINGAPORE, July 7, 2025 – Ruder Finn, one of the world’s largest independent global communications and integrated marketing consultancies, announced today the acquisition of Era Communications, an award-winning Southeast Asia-based strategic communications consultancy of 90 professionals, renowned for the deep local insights it applies to best-in-class work.

Through this strategic expansion, Ruder Finn establishes a direct presence in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, complementing its existing Southeast Asia operations in Singapore and Malaysia. This growth significantly strengthens the firm’s regional footprint and enhances its ability to deliver integrated, comprehensive communications solutions to clients across Asia, solidifying Ruder Finn as the foremost independent communications consultancy in the region.

“Expansion in the Asia-Pacific region is an integral part of our global growth strategy as a consultancy. The emerging markets throughout APAC and SEA represent a significant opportunity for our clients who are looking to grow their brand footprints,” said Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn. “Welcoming Era Communications builds on our presence in the region, and strengthens our ability to deliver tailored, results-driven solutions grounded in deep local knowledge—while upholding the global standards our clients expect.”

Founded in 2015, Era Communications is the premier homegrown ASEAN strategic communications consultancy. It is known for its innovative, award-winning campaigns and setting the benchmark for excellence in the communications industry of ASEAN’s emerging markets. It offers client solutions in all areas of reputation management, branding, social impact, B2B communications and digital experience. The firm was recognized for Southeast Asia PR Campaign of the Year for three years in a row, holds two PRovoke Global SABRE awards, and boasts more campaign wins than any other PR firm in the region, including a standout seven awards at the 2025 Campaign PR Awards Asia-Pacific.

Following the acquisition, the Era offices will officially operate under the Ruder Finn Era brand.

“It was a no-brainer to become a part of one of the world’s best, and first-ever, PR firms,” said Anthony Larmon, Managing Director of Era Communications. “Our mission has always been to show to the industry around the world that the best work can come from anywhere, and this partnership with Ruder Finn lets us use its global leadership to deliver unrivalled creativity, strategy, service and value to clients all over our vibrant region. I was especially excited by Ruder Finn’s tech-driven communications capabilities and AI expertise driven by rf.TechLab and Ruder Finn’s AI Advisory Council, which has the potential to transform businesses in our rapidly growing marketplaces.”

Named Best Agency in Asia-Pacific by the PRWeek Global Awards 2024, Ruder Finn is redefining communications through its “What’s Next” vision—combining emerging technology and storytelling to drive real-world impact. As part of this forward-looking approach, the firm’s emerging technologies incubator, rf.TechLab, has launched a first-of-its-kind AI Advisory Council, led by

former OpenAI executive Zack Kass. This unique initiative positions Ruder Finn at the forefront of AI-powered communications, helping clients navigate and harness the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Elan Shou, Global Chief Growth Officer and Managing Director of Ruder Finn Asia, added: “Leveraging advanced AI technology, local insights, and global perspectives, we believe the most effective strategies seamlessly blend authentic storytelling with deep market expertise. This acquisition enhances our presence in key Southeast Asian markets through ERA’s exceptional local knowledge, positioning us to help clients thrive with campaigns that resonate across the region.”