Global communications leader, Burson, has appointed Michael Rhydderch as the APAC head of sustainability. The move is part of Burson's commitment to sustainability and social impact advisory in the APAC region.

Rhydderch, a registered B consultant and environmental scientist, brings over a decade of experience in sustainability advisory to the role. His role will expand Burson’s existing sustainability communication offering, creating a holistic advisory solution.

In addition to Rhydderch's appointment, Burson has made several recent leadership appointments in Australia and New Zealand. These include Tom Horn as market leader, Jessie Gogan as deputy market leader, Anna O’Sullivan as head of reputation and issues management, and Marcha van den Heuvel as head of corporate and public affairs.

Adrian Warr, CEO South Asia Pacific, Burson, emphasised the importance of a company's reputation being grounded in real actions.

"In today’s environment, a company’s reputation needs to be grounded in real actions that are embedded within the corporate strategy. A company must be able to capitalise on new opportunities through clear and creative communication. Burson’s advisory solution will help clients focus on impact and transform their business and communications to align with stakeholder expectations. We are thrilled to have Michael in this role to support our clients in navigating heightened demands and increased scrutiny in this space, particularly as mandatory climate reporting requirements come into effect for 2025 and beyond."

Warr also highlighted the significant role Australia plays in Burson’s plans in the Asia Pacific region.

"Australia plays an important role in Burson’s plans in the Asia Pacific region as it continues to be where we do some of our best work. This market has long been an engine of creativity and an incubator of innovation where boundaries are pushed. Our new leadership team will be leaning into that potential while ensuring we continue to exceed our clients’ expectations – and that we build a team and culture that people want to be a part of."

Burson is part of WPP, the creative transformation company.