FTI Consulting has announced the appointment of Tim Falconer (pictured) as a Managing Director in the firm’s Strategic Communications segment.

Based in Dubai, Tim brings to the firm more than 25 years of communications and journalism experience, advising C-suite leaders and government officials on strategy, transactions, media relations and crisis management. In his role at FTI Consulting, he advises clients on strategic communications during high-stakes litigation, regulatory challenges and during transformational periods, enabling organisations to take decisive action that supports business goals while protecting their reputation.

“As someone who has sat both sides of the tape recorder as a journalist and advisor, Tim brings a wealth of experience of how reputation-critical events unfold, in the GCC’s dynamic and fast-moving media environment,” said Oliver Williams, Head of the Strategic Communications segment in the Middle East at FTI Consulting. 

“His arrival will enhance our crisis and litigation capabilities and ability to partner with other offices and segments within the firm to provide clients with a truly comprehensive suite of services when it is all at stake. As a proven driver of team culture and performance, we are particularly excited to welcome Tim to the business as we continue to ramp up our presence across the region.”

Tim's arrival continues FTI Consulting’s ongoing investment in its strategic communications capabilities in the Middle East. It also follows the recent appointment of Usman Javed, who joined as a Senior Director in February 2025 to spearhead the firm’s strategic and policy advisory services in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on the financial services and energy sectors.

Commenting on his appointment, Tim said: “FTI Consulting stands apart for its ability to guide organisations through critical moments that define their future. In times of transformation or crisis, clients turn to the firm for clarity, confidence and world-class expertise. I’m excited to be part of a team trusted to deliver when it matters most.”

Tonic Communications has strengthened its leadership ranks, promoting Georgia Coleman to Managing Director. This follows year-on-year growth and continued expansion of the agency's trans-Tasman offering.

The agency was launched in February last year by parent company, Attivo, which saw Georgia take on responsibilities as General Manager.

Effective immediately, Georgia will oversee the agency's newly-established hubs in both Australia and New Zealand, fostering innovation across all its communications capabilities while further expanding Tonic's team.

Attivo ANZ's CEO, Sue Squillace, said: "Georgia has done an amazing job growing Tonic's business in both markets building capabilities, scope and footprint. She led a strong expansion of services into Australia, using her previous experience across both markets, while working alongside Attivo's brand and media agencies on recent projects for RSPCA, Bosch, Arla Foods and Women’s Asian Cup 2026.

"We are incredibly proud of the new business growth she has achieved and have no doubt that as MD she will take Tonic to even more success in the future."

Georgia said: "I'm incredibly proud of the team we’ve built and the partnerships we’ve formed since launching Tonic. From day one, our focus has been on delivering work that earns attention and creates real, lasting impact. Stepping into the MD role is about continuing that momentum - growing our people, strengthening our trans-Tasman footprint, and ensuring Tonic stays as the agency that clients trust for strategic thinking, innovative ideas and genuine heart."

Australasian independent integrated agency, Bastion Shine, has announced the appointment of six senior leaders in Wellington.

Commencing early 2026, Fleur Head will assume leadership of the Wellington team, and will be joined by Anna Gunnell, Damian Galvin, Alicia Tutty, Matt Saunders, and Kate Miller, who will commence in senior roles across strategy, creative, client leadership and government relations. Collectively, the group brings extensive experience across a number of New Zealand government, corporate, and consumer clients.

Bastion Shine NZ's CEO, Toby Sellers, said: "This is a landmark moment for Bastion Shine. As Australasia's largest independent agency group, we’re proud to be investing in Wellington, the heart of government and home to some of Aotearoa's most iconic businesses.

"Welcoming such a talented and diverse leadership group reflects our commitment to delivering world-class creativity and strategy in the capital. The unique mix of public purpose and commercial creativity makes Wellington a perfect fit for our next phase of growth."

The appointments build on the agency's foundation, established under Sally Hooper's leadership. As part of this growth, Sally will move into the role of Chief Commercial Officer, leveraging her agency and consultancy experience to connect and grow Bastion Shine's full suite of capabilities across New Zealand.

Sally said that clients and customers expect connected, integrated thinking to navigate complex challenges: "My focus will be to connect Bastion's expertise nationwide, especially our growing digital practice.

"Bringing together the best minds with the agility to help organisations navigate complex communication challenges, whether they're public sector agencies, corporates, or emerging innovators. From major government projects to brand transformation work, our goal is to create clarity, confidence and measurable outcomes for the organisations shaping New Zealand’s future."