PR News

DARKHORSE adds two clients to the stables and appoints two business directors

Written by Telum Media | Apr 23, 2026 1:00:41 AM

New Zealand-based communications agency, DARKHORSE, has welcomed Trade Me and DHL to its client portfolio, and has appointed Lucinda East Kennedy and Mandy Wiles as Business Directors.

DARKHORSE has been engaged to deliver brand communications, including content, PR, social and influencer for Trade Me, and has been appointed by DHL to manage its PR and crisis communications, strengthening the logistics company's brand presence and ensuring a consistent, strategic voice across all corporate and consumer communications.

Lucinda joins the stables with 20 years' experience working across media and communications in New Zealand and abroad. In the last decade, she’s had her agency, EAST, acquired by Thrive PR + Communications, launched and ran the New Zealand arm of Thrive, become an agency advisor, and co-founded a beauty technology brand.

Mandy returns to DARKHORSE following a three-year stint in the United Kingdom working across major luxury brands, bringing experience in international project and event management, client relationships, creative execution, and live brand experiences for iconic names, including Prada, Calvin Klein, Vogue and Burberry.

Managing Director, Francesca Kelly said: “Trade Me and DHL are both culture-shaping brands that lead from the front, while Lucinda and Mandy are both industry leaders with a genuine passion for the type of work DARKHORSE is proud to produce. It's fitting that it’s the Year of the Horse because from our clients to our team, our stables have never been stronger.”

(Pictured L - R: Lucinda East Kennedy and Mandy Wiles)