Edelman names Kate Stanners as global creative lead

Edelman has named Kate Stanners as Chief Creative Officer, International. In the newly created position, she will oversee the firm’s creative community across international markets and work with teams to deliver campaigns that connect culture and business. Stanners will report to Judy John, Global Chief Creative Officer, and Ed Williams, President, International.

Her appointment highlights Edelman’s continued focus on strengthening creative leadership and building on its earned-first approach to brand storytelling. Stanners joins from Saatchi & Saatchi, where she spent more than 20 years, most recently serving as Global Chief Creative Officer and Global Chair.

Richard Edelman welcomes long-sought hire

Richard Edelman, CEO, Edelman: "We are doubling down on creative while others in the sector are moving in the opposite direction. Kate is one of the most formidable creative leaders in the industry, and I’m thrilled to finally welcome her to Edelman after trying to recruit her for many years. This is a moment in time for Edelman to emerge as a creative powerhouse—we believe in creative based on action and our deep understanding of Earned Creative in the Creator Economy. Our position at the intersection of brand and reputation makes us uniquely equipped to lead the industry forward."

During her career, Stanners has led creative work for international clients including HSBC, Visa, T-Mobile, and P&G. She has won multiple Cannes Lions, served as President of D&AD from 2019 to 2020, and sits on councils for AB InBev Europe and The Kraft Heinz Company. She is also a co-founder of St. Luke’s in London.

Stanners on creativity’s business role

Kate Stanners: "Earned media has become such a powerful tool in a brand’s communications armory, building community, conversation, and connection in impactful ways. There’s a freedom that comes when you truly unleash the unreasonable power of creativity on real business problems. I look forward to collaborating with Edelman’s talented teams across the network to build work that not only stands out but makes a difference."

Judy John, Global Chief Creative Officer, Edelman: "We’re at a cultural inflection point where brand, media and culture are colliding in new and unpredictable ways. This is exactly when creativity matters most—when ideas need to break through the noise, earn attention, and drive action. Kate’s appointment reinforces our commitment to building bold, earned-first work that drives conversation and makes an impact."

Edelman strengthens creative profile

Edelman’s creative reputation has gained momentum in recent years. The agency won 16 Cannes Lions in 2024, including a Titanium Lion for DP World’s The Move to Minus 15, the first time a PR agency achieved the recognition. Campaigns for Dove, IKEA, Heineken, and Sanofi were also awarded. In 2025, Edelman added nine Cannes Lions, including one Gold for Progresso’s Soup Drops.

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