Havas Red is appointed as PR and Social Agency by ECOVACS

Matthew Slade has joined Free Folk Agency and Steady Ground in the newly created, hybrid role of Melbourne Lead and Head of Sport.

He was at Top Shelf International Holdings for seven years, where he served as Head of Marketing and Brands, and Brand and Investor Relations Director. Matthew has senior communications and corporate affairs experience, having started his career as a journalist before working in various sports organisations, including Cricket Australia and the International Hockey Federation.

In his new role, he will offer specialist advice on corporate affairs, stakeholder management and investor relations and drive the agency forward, with a particular focus on sport ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Matt said he is energised by the opportunity to contribute to scaling an ambitious, growing agency group.

"What attracted me to Free Folk Agency and Steady Ground was the team’s appetite for growth and genuine commitment to their people and clients. I'm ready to hit the ground running as we build on that momentum together."

(Pictured L-R: Madison West and Matthew Slade)

Bastion Aotearoa has announced appointments to its senior communications team, welcoming Katie Walton (pictured left) as General Manager, Communications and Paige Corrin (pictured centre) as PR Business Director.

Katie brings more than 20 years of experience across consumer and corporate communications. Throughout her career, she has advised organisations across a broad range of industries and has helped them develop communications strategies and reputation.

Paige is a communications specialist with seven years' experience across New Zealand and international markets. She brings experience delivering earned-first campaigns, brand partnerships, and strategic communications for clients across a range of sectors.

Joanna James (pictured right), Managing Director, Communications at Bastion Aotearoa, said the appointments reflect the agency's continued focus on building a market-leading communications capability.

"Katie and Paige are exceptional practitioners who bring complementary strengths and valuable experience to our team. As communications becomes more complex, clients need partners who can bring together strategy and execution through one integrated model. Katie and Paige further strengthen our ability to do this for our clients."

Katie said the opportunity to help shape the next phase of Bastion Aotearoa's communications offering was a major drawcard.

"The opportunity to join a business with such a strong integrated model and ambitious vision was incredibly compelling. I'm looking forward to working with an exceptional team to continue building a communications offering that delivers outstanding outcomes for clients." 

Burson has been appointed to lead communications for The Kallang Group, following a competitive pitch.

Under the remit, the agency will provide communications counsel and end-to-end execution across earned media, media relations, corporate and executive thought leadership, and issues and crisis management. The work aims to strengthen The Kallang Group’s reputation in Singapore and international markets.

"The Kallang has always been part of Singapore’s shared story, and we seek a partner who understands both the emotional significance this place holds for the people who call Singapore home and the global profile this place is built for,” said Michelle Yip, Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Communications at The Kallang Group.

“We’re excited to partner with Burson to tap into their storytelling expertise and global network as we build The Kallang into the region's defining destination for live experiences.”

Cindy Lim, CEO, Burson Singapore, added: “We're honoured to partner with The Kallang Group at such a pivotal moment in the destination's evolution. The Kallang is more than just a venue - it's a national and global icon that carries memories from decades of shared moments, not just as a location, but as a backdrop to personal and national milestones. We look forward to bringing strategic counsel, sharp storytelling and seamless execution to strengthen its reputation amongst audiences in Singapore and around the world."