Tim Smith, a corporate communications and public affairs expert, has joined APCO Worldwide as managing director of the firm’s Seattle office, announced Nelson Fernandez, chairman, North America and managing director, New York. Smith will lead APCO’s growing West Coast presence.
“Helping clients successfully navigate reputational challenges, corporate communications crises and complex geopolitical issues is at the core of what we do at APCO,” said Fernandez. “Tim’s addition enhances our ability to provide innovative solutions that will help them succeed. We’re delighted to welcome him to APCO and look forward to seeing our West Coast team grow under his leadership.”
Prior to joining APCO, Smith served as executive vice president, corporate and public affairs for Edelman, joining the firm’s Seattle office in 2009. During his time at Edelman, Smith led an aggressive expansion of staff which resulted in annual revenue growth of 300% for his group. His team assisted clients across a wide range of sectors including technology, energy and natural resources, among others.
Before joining Edelman, Smith served as a senior vice president for Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, where he led the firm’s Northwest public affairs practice, counseling clients on issues management, corporate responsibility, stakeholder relations and crisis communications.
“APCO is uniquely positioned to help organizations adapt and thrive in today’s complex world,” said Smith. “Much of the future of business, technology and society flows from innovations made on the West Coast. I’m excited to lead this distinguished and growing team and look forward to assisting clients from around the world thrive in this critical region.”
A former diplomat and European corporate and public affairs executive, Smith brings a wide range of international experience to APCO. He previously served as vice president, global corporate affairs & communications for JT International, based in the company’s Moscow and Geneva offices. Before joining the private sector, Smith held several diplomatic positions within the U.S. government, serving most recently as the deputy senior commercial officer for the U.S. Embassy in Moscow.
Smith will lead a robust and growing team of corporate commutations, public affairs, technology and branding experts at APCO with deep ties on the West Coast, including Michael Ann Thomas, Liza Olsen, Mary Foerster, Richard VanOrnum, Matthew Gallagher and Susannah Malarkey.
