Global law firm Freshfields has named Craig Annis as Chief Brand and Communications Officer. In this role, he will lead Freshfields' global brand, communications and reputation agenda, working closely with the firm's leadership and its global business development teams.
Based in New York, Craig joins from A&O Shearman, where he led the firm's global communications function and was responsible for major strategic initiatives at the firm, including the launch of its global brand and broader reputation and stakeholder engagement programmes.
Prior to that, he served as Chief Brand Officer at the United States Golf Association (USGA), and earlier in his career, Craig spent more than eleven years at Mars, held several global senior leadership positions across communications, public affairs, government relations and corporate responsibility, based in both the US and Europe.
Georgia Dawson, Senior Partner at Freshfields, said, "We have ambitious plans for the future and strong, strategic communications have never been more important. Craig brings an exceptional track record of building high-performing teams, shaping reputation and helping organisations engage effectively with clients, employees and wider stakeholders. We are delighted to welcome him to the firm."
Craig added, "Freshfields is one of the world's leading law firms, with an extraordinary heritage, a clear sense of purpose and a compelling vision for the future. I'm excited to be joining the firm and look forward to working with colleagues around the world to further strengthen its brand, reputation and engagement with key audiences."